Dispersed camping near Blakeslee, Pennsylvania offers several primitive options along the Pocono plateau, which sits at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet. The region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season. Most dispersed sites in the area require either hiking in or have limited parking options for overnight stays.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One visitor noted, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," making it ideal for day hikes from your base camp.
Bird watching at Hickok Brook: This remote area features lakeside camping with opportunities to spot native Pennsylvania bird species. "Really is a nice quiet place," one camper mentioned, highlighting the peaceful environment conducive to wildlife observation.
Rock scrambling: The Appalachian Trail Campsite near Blakeslee connects to numerous rocky outcroppings typical of the Pennsylvania section of the AT. The terrain consists primarily of large boulder fields requiring careful navigation and proper footwear.
What campers like
Secluded hammock spots: The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers excellent hammock camping options. A camper reported, "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too. Good trees for hammocking," noting the flexibility to find privacy or community.
Bear safety amenities: Safety features at established sites reduce wildlife concerns. "Well maintained with bear boxes provided," stated one visitor to the AT Designated Backpacker site, eliminating the need to create your own food storage solutions.
Overnight parking access: Several locations permit vehicle stays without formal facilities. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, a camper described the experience as "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble," confirming the simple but effective arrangement.
What you should know
Water planning essential: Most dispersed sites near Blakeslee lack water sources. At the AT Designated Backpacker site, a camper advised, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pond - easy hike about a 1 mile round trip)," highlighting the need to plan water carrying capacity.
Limited site availability: Designated camping areas can fill quickly during peak seasons. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," reported one visitor at Hickok Brook, emphasizing the importance of backup plans.
Permit requirements: Some areas mandate camping permits. At Hickok Brook, a camper learned, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," after being informed by a ranger they were not in a designated spot.
Tips for camping with families
Road condition awareness: Access roads to primitive sites may present challenges. For Bake Oven Knob, a visitor mentioned, "There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent," providing options based on vehicle capability and family hiking capacity.
Trail difficulty assessment: Match hikes to ability levels. A Bake Oven Knob camper described, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky," indicating a potentially manageable option for families with older children but challenging for toddlers.
Adequate supply preparation: Remote locations require bringing all necessities. A Hickok Brook camper advised, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," emphasizing the need for comprehensive packing.
Tips from RVers
Clearance considerations: Many dispersed camping access roads near Blakeslee have rough terrain. One RVer at Hickok Brook reported, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping," warning against bringing larger vehicles.
Size limitations: Standard RVs are not suitable for most dispersed sites. A visitor observed, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup... Very gorgeous but not RV friendly," confirming the area primarily accommodates tent camping or small vans.
Shaded parking availability: For those in smaller vehicles, some trailheads offer natural protection. One Thunder Swamp Trailhead visitor noted, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," highlighting basic but functional overnight options.
