The forested regions surrounding Corry, Pennsylvania provide numerous no-fee camping options within the Allegheny National Forest. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 feet, with a humid continental climate featuring cold winters and mild summers. Most dispersed sites become accessible in mid-April when forest roads dry out, though some remain passable year-round depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Hector Falls hiking: Located near Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, this 2-mile trail offers a moderate hike to view interesting rock formations. "It's a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," notes Ian B.
Off-road exploring: The network of forest roads provides opportunities for scouting multiple campsites. "I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy," writes Caitlin about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Target shooting: Some areas have informal target ranges popular with locals. At FR437, one camper notes, "nice little hideaway, it is however right across from where people have made a make shift shooting rang, which I thought to be a bonus."
What campers like
Natural water features: Riverside camping is available at several locations. Kevin C. describes Millstone Creek Campground: "Many disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size of camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road."
Wildlife viewing: The Allegheny Forest hosts diverse wildlife including black bears. "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," reports Mystic S.
Established fire rings: Most free camping areas feature permanent fire rings. As one camper notes about Forestry Road, "Fire wood can be found all around," making it convenient to have campfires without bringing your own wood.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Spring brings challenging muddy conditions. Anne W. notes about Loleta Road: "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road. It was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in but swampy everywhere else."
Navigation challenges: Some forest roads can be confusing. One camper at Forestry Road reports: "A little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls."
Variable cell service: Cell coverage is inconsistent but not impossible. Mystic S. reports: "There is spotty cell service through the forest, usually you can walk around for a couple minutes and find some. I managed to get an average of 3-4 bars of 5g every day."
Food storage precautions: Bears are active in the region. "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Assess site cleanliness: Some free camping areas suffer from litter problems. At Warner Road Dispersed Camping, Rose S. found: "Kind of a gross site, the previous people who stayed at our site were messy and left litter, but it served its purpose as a free place to sleep along a longer trip."
Check regulations: Some areas may have usage restrictions. Denise D. warns: "Like the other review, this site has a lot of litter. Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only."
Consider campsite proximity to roads: Some sites offer more protection from passing vehicles than others. Todd H. notes: "The only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum."
Pack insect protection: Ticks are common in warmer months. "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," warns one family camper.
Tips from RVers
Assess road conditions: Forest service roads vary in quality and maintenance. Scott C. advises about Salmon Creek Dispersed: "Theres a few dispersed spots back here. Its pretty nice area. The road is out tho so dont take a big rig."
Know your vehicle limitations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. Forestry Road offers more options, with one RVer reporting: "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160."
Plan for rain: The region receives significant rainfall. One RVer suggests: "It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door."
Supply access: RVers should note distances to resupply points. "Howe's ace hardware is about 10 miles away with a dollar general across the street," reports one camper, providing information on where to purchase necessities.
