Best Tent Camping near Bath, PA
The Lehigh Gap area near Bath, Pennsylvania offers several primitive tent camping options along the Appalachian Trail, with multiple established backcountry sites that provide hikers with strategic overnight locations. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter and the AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap are popular tent camping areas for through-hikers and weekend backpackers, offering ridge-top views and access to the surrounding trail network.
Most tent camping sites in this region are hike-in only, requiring backpackers to carry all necessary supplies. Fire rings are available at most sites, though campers should practice proper fire safety and check for seasonal restrictions. No drinking water is available at most primitive sites along the ridge, so filtering from natural sources or carrying sufficient water is essential. The AT Ridge Campground and Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground provide basic tent pads but lack amenities like picnic tables, toilets, or trash service. All sites operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis.
The ridgeline tent sites offer exceptional views that make the hiking effort worthwhile. AT Overlook Campground provides panoramic valley views directly from tent sites, with flat, dry terrain that's ideal for setting up camp. The surrounding area features fern fields and opportunities for wildlife viewing. A review from The Dyrt noted, "By far the best campsite option on this section of the AT! You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door." For those seeking more shelter, the George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter provides a raised covered platform with space for multiple hikers, though tent campers will find limited flat areas nearby. Backcountry tent camping in this region rewards hikers with peaceful solitude and natural surroundings, particularly on weekdays when fewer people are on the trail.