Dispersed camping near Canadensis, Pennsylvania offers primitive outdoor experiences in the northeastern Pocono region where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests with rocky terrain and seasonal creeks that typically run from late winter through early summer. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, requiring proper cold-weather gear for overnight stays from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The parking area at Bake Oven Knob serves as both an Appalachian Trail access point and day hiking area. "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky," notes one camper. This location offers convenient overnight parking for van campers and access to longer trail segments.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings at Hickok Brook provide chances to observe local fauna. "Really is a nice quiet place," reports one visitor who stayed near the lake. The secluded setting attracts various woodland species, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when animal activity peaks.
Rock scrambling: The Bake Oven Knob area features significant rock formations that permit non-technical climbing and exploration. Located on the Blue Mountain ridge of the Appalachian Mountains near Germansville, the knob serves as a geographical high point with challenging terrain for moderate scramblers.
What campers like
Overnight vehicle access: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides a convenient gravel lot for vehicle-based camping. One visitor noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble." The location serves well for single-night stays when accessing the adjacent trail system.
Hammock-friendly sites: Many locations along Appalachian Trail designated camping areas accommodate hammock setups. At the backpacker campsites, a camper observed, "Good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine." The mature forest provides adequate tree spacing for suspension systems.
Lake proximity: Select sites at Hickok Brook offer direct lakeside positioning. "Very gorgeous but not rv friendly," reports one camper who appreciated the water access despite the challenging approach. The limited number of lakeside sites (approximately three) means arriving early during peak periods is essential.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Access roads to several dispersed camping areas demand vehicles with appropriate clearance. A Hickok Brook visitor warned, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must." Standard passenger cars may risk damage on unmaintained forest roads.
Permit requirements: Camping on New York state land requires permits from county ranger offices. One camper at Hickok Brook learned this firsthand: "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land."
Fire restrictions: Most dispersed sites in the region prohibit ground fires year-round. At the Appalachian Trail designated sites, a backpacker noted, "No ground fires," highlighting the need to plan meals around stoves or no-cook options when staying overnight.
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety measures: The Appalachian Trail designated campsites provide bear boxes for food storage. "Well maintained with bear boxes provided," reports a hiker, reducing concerns about attracting wildlife when camping with children. Store all food, trash and scented items properly.
Water planning: No reliable water sources exist at most sites, requiring families to carry sufficient supplies. A camper at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 noted, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 mile round trip)," emphasizing the need to pack adequate water or plan collection points.
Space considerations: Some sites offer room for multiple tents, allowing family groups to camp together. "There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too," observed one visitor to an Appalachian Trail campsite, indicating flexible setup options for groups of varying sizes.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access to rustic camping near Canadensis requires careful route planning for larger vehicles. A visitor to Hickok Brook reported, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup." The assessment concluded most areas are "not a good spot for car camping" with larger vehicles.
Van camping options: Several parking areas permit overnight stays in smaller self-contained vehicles. At Bake Oven Knob, a regular visitor shares, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
Supply proximity: Limited services exist near most dispersed camping areas. One Hickok Brook camper noted, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY." Stock up on necessities before arriving at your camping location.
