Best Dispersed Camping near Cowanesque Lake

Cowanesque Lake, PA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Pennsylvania camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Cowanesque Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cowanesque Lake (11)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cowanesque Lake

13 Photos of 11 Cowanesque Lake Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cowanesque Lake

24 Reviews of 11 Cowanesque Lake Campgrounds


  • Jacob D.
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Foster Pond Camping Area

    Relaxed Free Dispersed Camping

    Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you’ll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you’ll find free dispersed camping.

    My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren’t bothered. NO AMENITIES

  • Lylah H.
    May. 17, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great spot, follow the map around

    I believe it’s still off season so the spot with all the facilities wasn’t open. We used the map on the state forest website. But most spots have a privy/port o potty. We found the map on the website helpful because there are spots all over. Site 28 did have a sign about not awaking “butch and big daddy” as two young women we decided we didn’t want to stick around and meet them. There was a privy at 35 which was nice. The site by the pond was really cute with a privy but a walk in (believe it was 37)!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2019

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Favorite place to camp

    No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Would Stay again

    We stayed here for 2 nights car camping. quiet and clean. spots had fire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were clean and had potable water. There were lots of horses. There are hiking trails right out of the site! would absolutely stay here again!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Free camping with amenities!

    26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren’t on top of each other. People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp. I would come back!

  • Brittany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2022

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great location

    We stayed here during an anniversary trip to the Finger Lakes. Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers. Great location!

  • Lizzy K.
    Oct. 29, 2021

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Love this place!

    Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!

  • M
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Perfect campsite

    Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake. Fire pits, a table, and parking area are in place but nothing else. Lots of beavers to watch throughout the day.

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    beautiful spots near pond or in woods

    if the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots. dispersed free LNT style. no services. would stay here again.


Guide to Cowanesque Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cowanesque Lake in Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities without the crowds. This area offers several well-reviewed spots for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Cowanesque Lake

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic trails available at Old Logger's Path, which features beautiful views and a peaceful forest atmosphere perfect for a weekend getaway.
  • For those who enjoy horseback riding, Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite provides ample opportunities to see horses on trail rides, adding a unique touch to your camping experience.
  • Fishing and relaxing by the water can be enjoyed at Palmers Pond State Forest, where you can find quiet spots to unwind and connect with nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Cowanesque Lake in Pennsylvania

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping, where sites can fill up quickly during weekends.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Foster Pond Camping Area offers no facilities, so bring your own supplies and ensure you leave no trace.
  • Keep an eye on your pets, as many areas, including Palmers Pond State Forest, allow dogs but require them to be leashed at all times.

Best Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cowanesque Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cowanesque Lake is Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cowanesque Lake?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Cowanesque Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.