Dispersed camping opportunities near Clarendon, Pennsylvania extend throughout the Allegheny National Forest with multiple access points for tent campers seeking different levels of solitude. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with winter temperatures often dropping into the teens and summer bringing tall grass at many sites. Road conditions vary significantly between seasons, with particular challenges during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to Hector Falls: A 2-mile trail accessible from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite offers a moderate hiking experience with interesting geological features. "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.
Winter recreation: The region offers cold-weather camping options for prepared visitors. "It was freezing, quite literally, with nights in the low teens. The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone," reports Ian B. from Forestry Road.
Paddling opportunities: Private Island w/ Paddle Moor Co. provides water access camping. "The option to have lights on or off was also a joy. When it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies. To be honest that was like a show in itself," explains Jessica Z.
What campers like
Roadside convenience: Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite offers accessible tent camping with moderate privacy. "This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy," notes Caitlin. Another camper adds, "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 bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else."
Vehicle-accessible solitude: Multiple pull-off spots provide options for tent campers with vehicles. "I've been camping here for 5 years now and it's always a good time," mentions Dylan H. about Loleta Road. Another camper notes, "Living in a van looking for spots to stay this wasn't a bad one at all, good bit off the road, couple trails."
Walking-distance sites: For more privacy, walking options exist. "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 Bob J.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Active bear populations require proper precautions. A camper at Forestry Road notes, "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. The bears are skittish, but they will find you if there's food in your camp."
Seasonal vegetation: Summer months bring dense growth at many sites. "Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August. Didn't end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies," explains David B.
Navigation challenges: Finding specific dispersed sites can be difficult. "A little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls," reports Evan about his experience. Another camper shares, "We pulled off about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For families new to primitive camping, Wolfkiel Run Shelters offers Adirondack-style shelters as a middle ground. "The Adirondack shelters are perfectly positioned to be private from one another, each looks out over the forest. They are a raised timber platform with a slanted roof and stone chimney with fireplace," notes Britt B.
Bug protection: Insect preparation is essential, particularly for children. "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," warns Ian B.
Weather readiness: The region receives significant rainfall. "I would give this a 5 star if it didn't rain so much. Keep your slip-ons near the door," advises Mark M. Another camper adds, "We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: While primarily a tent camping area, some dispersed locations accommodate small trailers. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons handy near the door. This area offers great hiking and biking opportunities," reports a camper at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Supply runs: Limited services require planning. "Howe's ace hardware is about 10 miles away with a dollar general across the street. The site seeing is second to none," notes Mark M.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies throughout the forest. "The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time," shares an RVer, adding practical information for those needing to stay connected.
