Tiadaghton State Forest surrounds Cammal, Pennsylvania, located in the Pine Creek Valley at approximately 690 feet elevation. Primitive tent sites dominate this region, with seasonally maintained dirt and gravel forest roads providing access to remote camping locations. Weather varies significantly with summer highs averaging 82°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season.
What to do
Hiking the Turkey Path Trail: At Colton Point State Park Campground, campers can access the challenging Turkey Path Trail that descends into Pine Creek Gorge. As Gary O. notes, this area offers "incredible views, nicknamed the Grand Canyons of Pennsylvania" with some of the highest trail elevations in the state.
Stream fishing: Naval Run Road Sites and other Tiadaghton locations provide direct access to smaller tributaries feeding into Pine Creek. Campers can fish for native brook trout in spring and early summer when water levels remain sufficient. Fishing licenses required and available online or at local outfitters in Wellsboro.
Mountain biking: The Tiadaghton Campground area connects with extensive trail networks. Julian S. mentions "a lot of bikers walking around the campground or stopping for lunch at nearby sites," indicating the popularity of cycling routes connected to camping areas.
What campers like
Deep seclusion: Roadside tent sites along forest roads like Hackett Road provide exceptional isolation. David A. describes his experience at Tiadaghton State Forest: "Roadside site 1/4 mile from the nearest site. You can drive right to the site on Hackett Rd. Very secluded and peaceful."
Private walk-in options: Sites at Colton Point State Park Campground require short hikes from parking areas, enhancing privacy. As Emily S. notes, "The campsites are private and you get to hike in (varying amounts of distance). The trails aren't built up with steps and the like."
Stream proximity: Many forest sites feature creek access, particularly valued during warmer months. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, Laura explains, "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
What you should know
Water requirements: Most Tiadaghton State Forest sites lack drinking water sources. Campers must bring sufficient water supplies for their entire stay, particularly during summer months when temperatures can reach the high 80s.
Seasonal road conditions: Four-wheel drive vehicles may be necessary for accessing remote sites. According to Julian S. at Tiadaghton Campground, campers should "recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles to drive to site, steep dirt roads to access it."
Limited facilities: Most primitive tent sites in Tiadaghton State Forest include only basic fire rings and picnic tables. No trash service means all waste must be packed out, and toilet facilities are typically not available at roadside sites.
Reservation systems: Unlike developed campgrounds, most forest sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. Sarah C. notes that at smaller parks in the region, registration is straightforward: "Perfect for a quick little stopover. As other reviewers mention, it's right near a road so you hear car noise. Pretty clean bathroom, easy self-registration process."
Tips for camping with families
Tent pad considerations: When tent camping with children near Cammal, select sites with level tent pads. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, Traci F. advises, "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Safety distances: Forest sites along roads should be monitored for traffic. KK reports, "It's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible."
Swimming access: For summer camping with children, sites near slower creek sections provide natural water play. Laura mentions at Ravensburg, "hiking trails take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest roads in Tiadaghton State Forest cannot accommodate large recreational vehicles. Tent camping or small truck campers under 20 feet represent the practical options for remote sites. Roads frequently narrow to single lane width with limited turning radius.
Alternative options: For RVers seeking hookups near Cammal, consider Colton Point State Park Campground which can accommodate smaller RVs, though Sadie S. cautions, "It's pricey, but beautiful. For whatever reason it's expensive to stay at this state Park. It doesn't have modern bathrooms, and you can't pre-book your stay."
