Primitive camping options surround Driftwood, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Allegheny Plateau at approximately 820 feet elevation. The region contains multiple state forests with designated camping areas where seasonal temperatures range from summer highs around 80°F to winter lows frequently below freezing. Most primitive tent sites have no cell service during winter months due to the dense forest canopy and rugged terrain.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Several tent camping areas near Driftwood provide access to scenic waterfalls. The trailhead to Hector Falls is about a mile from the Forestry Road Dispersed campsite and requires a 3/4-mile hike into the woods. According to Bob J., "The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing at many campgrounds. At Patterson State Park Campground, Fernando V. notes, "You can still observe the stars, but difficult for telescopes since trees cover Polaris in most of the sites." The park's location makes it accessible even when nearby Cherry Springs State Park is full.
Hammocking spots: Many campsites feature ample trees suitable for hammocks. Laura from Ravensburg State Park Campground mentions, "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at tent camping areas near Driftwood. At Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, Joann notes, "Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful." This tent-only campground includes basic amenities like restrooms without showers.
Budget-friendly options: Free dispersed camping exists throughout the region. At Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, Ian H. calls it "a boondocker's delight! Big open spots with established fire rings. Quiet except for the distant rumble of a train passing the town down in the valley."
Proximity to hiking networks: Many campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. Paula L. notes that Patterson State Park Campground offers the STS trail system that "runs right through it. On one side of the road (they must allow horse back riding on that section of the trail as we saw trailers of horses pull in to trail ride)."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites can become challenging. Traci F. from Ravensburg State Park Campground warns, "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times." Other reviewers note seasonal roads that may not be maintained year-round.
Wildlife awareness: Bears inhabit the forests surrounding Driftwood. Mystic S. advises at Forestry Road Dispersed, "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."
Water availability: Manual pumps are the primary water source at most established campgrounds. Fernando V. notes at Patterson State Park, "It has a really nice water well with a manual pump. Restroom is the typical hole with no flush, but is very clean."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for play space: Certain campgrounds offer more room for children's activities. Paula L. recommends Patterson State Park because "at any given time you may have the whole park to yourself. If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play, and it is a poke-stop."
Trail difficulty considerations: When camping with children, evaluate trail steepness carefully. Emily S. observes at Colton Point State Park Campground, "Unlike Leonard Harrison, Colton Point on the western rim of the Pine Creek Gorge isn't a tourist hub. The trails aren't built up with steps and the like, but I think the Colton Point Turkey trail is much more manageable even without them."
Pack accordingly for walk-in sites: Sites requiring a hike from parking areas require planning. Sadie S. advises about tent camping at Colton Point: "I love the walk in sites. They take a small hike so don't over pack!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs face challenges at most Driftwood area campgrounds. Chuck M. cautions about Penn Roosevelt State Park: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Alternative private camping: When state park amenities prove insufficient, consider looking elsewhere. Lois from Colton Point State Park Campground simply stated, "Small sites with porta potty's, did not stay found another campground."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant precipitation. Mark M. notes at Forestry Road Dispersed, "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door. Great hiking/biking. The spot next to the hiking trail has WiFi 70% of the time."
