Tent camping near Brookville, Pennsylvania offers access to both the Allegheny National Forest and several state parks within a 40-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet and mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and cherry trees. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that frequently drop below 20°F, while summer nights typically cool to the mid-50s even when days reach the 80s.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, the Hector Falls trail provides a moderate 2-mile hike. "There is a really cool place called Hector Falls. The trailhead is about a mile down the road from this spot. It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations," notes Bob J.
Explore logging roads: The network of old logging roads provides additional exploration opportunities beyond marked trails. "There are tons of logging roads that split off the main forest road. They mostly have gates that say 'Logging road, no public motor vehicles allowed' but they also say 'Foot travel is welcome,'" explains a camper at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Winter camping adventures: Oil Creek State Park offers winter camping experiences with structural protection. "The shelters are very peaceful in the winter and would highly recommend them if you are keen for some 'winter camping' but not keen to sleep in a tent or be completely exposed," reports a visitor to Wolfkiel Run Shelters.
Fishing access: Multiple sites provide access to waterways known for trout fishing. "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," shares richard C. from Mountain View Camps.
What campers like
Shelter features: The Adirondack-style shelters at Oil Creek State Park provide structural comforts while maintaining a wilderness feel. "The shelter fireplaces have hooks for hanging pots and pans over the flames. Even in Winter, the shelters positioned so you do not look at other shelters," notes a winter camper at Wolfkiel Run Shelters.
Island camping: For those seeking more isolation, boat-accessible sites offer unique experiences. "The island has cleared trails to get to the campsite which seem to be maintained very well and on a regular basis... When it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies. To be honest that was like a show in itself," reports Jessica Z. from Private Island w/ Paddle Moor Co.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Brookville provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," notes a camper at Mountain View Camps.
Dark skies: The rural setting creates opportunities for stargazing and natural light displays. "When it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies. To be honest that was like a show in itself and made it also worth every penny of how beautiful it was," shares a camper at Private Island.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant rainfall and temperature fluctuations. "I would give this a 5 star if it didn't rain so much... It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door," advises Mark M. at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Muddy conditions: Spring thaws and rain create challenging ground conditions at many sites. "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else," reports Anne W. from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears inhabit the forests surrounding camping areas. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area. I was meditating in my car one evening and a bear stood up and pushed against my window. Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," warns Mystic S.
Seasonal privacy: Foliage impacts campsite privacy throughout the year. "When we went, the grass was growing tall, we only stayed for a night. And it was a lil muddy," notes Excelsior X. about their early summer experience at Loleta Road.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter camping: For families new to primitive camping, the Adirondack shelters offer a middle ground. "These shelters are very peaceful in the winter and would highly recommend them if you are keen for some 'winter camping' but not keen to sleep in a tent or be completely exposed. The platform is large enough to sleep 4 people in sleeping bags," explains Britt B. about Wolfkiel Run Shelters.
Easy access sites: Some primitive sites provide relatively easy access while maintaining a wilderness feel. "This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area," shares Todd H. about Loleta Road.
Tick awareness: Parents should check children regularly for ticks during warm months. "If you don't mind roughing it a bit, it's really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," advises Ian B.
Tips from RVers
RV access: Some dispersed sites can accommodate smaller travel trailers. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door. Great hiking/biking. The spot next to the hiking trail has WiFi 70% of the time," shares Mark M. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads can be confusing for newcomers. "To get here, take Hwy 6 just east of Warren. Turn left on Kinzua road. Go about 8 miles. Stop at the Kinzua dam about 5 miles in. Turn right. Go about a mile and a half, turn right towards Jakes Rocks," advises a reviewer providing detailed directions to their preferred site.
Winter conditions: Winter camping with RVs requires additional preparation. "The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone. I have stayed in the summer with my sons and it is better," cautions Ian B. about winter camping at Forestry Road.
