Loyalsock State Forest offers multiple dispersed camping areas with a permit system requiring registration through the district office. Primitive campsites near Eagles Mere can be found along Big Hollow Road, Mead Road, and around Jakersville CCC Camp. Most sites feature cleared areas with stone fire rings and are accessible to vehicles with moderate clearance, though challenging in wet conditions.
What to do
Water recreation at Ricketts Glen State Park: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Lake Jean's 600-foot beach provides supervised swimming from 10am to 6pm. Boat rentals available for $15-20 hourly. "There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" notes Lexi, who visited Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Hiking the waterfall trails: The Falls Trail System offers a 7.2-mile loop with views of 22 named waterfalls. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained!" shares Anne P. about her experience at Ricketts Glen.
Visit local historical sites: Explore former CCC Camp locations within Loyalsock State Forest. "An interesting experience. All it takes is a permit and you can camp at a number of sites with fire rings. It is close to the Loyalsock Creek and the Loyalsock trail runs nearby so there are good hiking opportunities," explains John S. of his stay at Jakersville CCC Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feeling of sites at Pioneer Campground. "We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," notes Gayle B. from Pioneer Campground, adding that the campground offers "heated swimming pool" and "candy bar hunt" activities during summer months.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation around Eagles Mere provides relief from summer heat. "When it is brutally hot, this Campground is always cool. Large shaded sites that you don't feel like your right on top of the next camper," shares James P. about Pioneer Campground.
Star viewing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night," reports Gregory L., who stayed at Pioneer Campground during October.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Expect minimal to no connectivity in most camping areas. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," writes Katy R. about her experience at Worlds End State Park Campground.
Site selection considerations: For privacy, choose carefully at state parks. "The sites are spaced a decent amount apart and are generous in size. The pet-designated sites are close to the road (154), although there was not a lot of traffic," advises Lee D. about Worlds End State Park.
Seasonal facility limitations: Water availability may be restricted during certain periods. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports Lee D. about Ricketts Glen facilities.
Weather preparation: The mountainous terrain can lead to rapid weather changes and flooding in low-lying areas. "The camping site was very hard to access with my vehicle. Many people have clearly gotten stuck here as there were lots of tire ruts in the dirt," warns kallan about Mead Road Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly water access points. "The park has some good trails with amazing views, a beach area and Loyalsock creek," mentions Ally S. from Worlds End State Park.
Consider Halloween camping events: October brings special activities at some campgrounds. "We love decorating the sites and taking the kids trick or treating. They do a haunted woods that we felt the kids were too young for- maybe next time! They do hot chocolate and goodies in the store during the evening," shares Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Some facilities offer dedicated recreation areas. "The visitor center has a nice playground, but it is a mile away from the campground," notes Lee D. about the amenities at Worlds End State Park Campground.
Cabin options for colder months: For spring or fall visits when temperatures drop, consider heated accommodations. "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016... The cabins stay very warm with a wood burning stove- sometimes even too warm and windows need to stay cracked open," recommends Christine D.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most state park campgrounds offer electric only. "A typical PA State Park campground. Nice enough, but awesome location," shares Rachel B. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Site leveling preparation: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C," advises James S. about his experience at Ricketts Glen.
Dump station congestion: Plan for potential wait times on busy weekends. "There is only one dump station, but the owner John was going around pumping people out Sunday morning when the line to the dump station was long," reports Gregory L. about his stay at Pioneer Campground.
Traveler
