Camping near Forksville, Pennsylvania offers numerous dispersed options in the elevated ridge-and-valley Appalachian terrain. The region ranges from 800 to 2,000 feet in elevation with temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between valleys and ridgetops. Camping permits for state forest sites must be obtained ahead of time, with most sites located along forest roads or hiking paths.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Ricketts Glen State Park provides exceptional waterfall hiking with 22 named cascades. "This state park is just beautiful with a nice lake and beautiful trails. The campground is a bit crowded during peak season without much privacy. But this is the spot to be if you wanna hit up some trails and see some gorgeous views," notes one camper. The Falls Trail features cascades ranging from 9 to 94 feet in height.
Hiking the Old Logger's Path: This 27-mile loop trail in Loyalsock State Forest offers multi-day backpacking with established primitive campsites. "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," writes one backpacker. The trail can be hiked in segments with several access points for day hiking options.
Swimming at natural pools: During summer months, the Loyalsock Creek provides swimming opportunities. One visitor to Camp Kit Adin Outfitters mentions "the best swimming hole on the Loyalsock creek! No mud just clear mountain water!" These natural swimming areas typically range from 2-8 feet in depth.
What campers like
Secluded forest sites: Worlds End State Park offers a genuine wilderness feel despite developed amenities. "It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them," explains one visitor. The park has 70 campsites spread across two camping loops.
Year-round cabin options: Winter camping is available at certain locations. A camper at Worlds End notes, "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016 after being convinced by friends to check it out. We were immediately in love with the babbling river that ran right beside our cabin." Cabins typically rent for $38-96 per night depending on size and amenities.
Clean facilities: Pioneer Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "Excellent campground, roomy, shady sites, pool was nice and clean, nice little camp store with very nice and helpful employees," writes one visitor. Most developed campgrounds in the region offer shower facilities that are cleaned daily.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal throughout the region. "Definitely zero cell service, which is a good thing in my opinion," states one Worlds End camper. Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires special preparation. "The cabins stay very warm with a wood burning stove—sometimes even too warm and windows need to stay cracked open," notes a winter visitor to Worlds End State Park.
Water availability: Some campgrounds experience periodic water issues. A visitor to Ricketts Glen State Park reported, "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." Always check conditions before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: Pioneer Campground hosts special seasonal activities. "This has become a new tradition for our family and friends. We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool... We love decorating the sites and taking the kids trick or treating," reports one family. These events typically run weekends in October.
Accessible trails for kids: Several parks offer child-friendly hiking options. At Worlds End State Park, a visitor notes, "Butternut trail is right in the campground and is a perfect two-hour hike for kids who don't mind a good hike. There are some tricky spots, but it's manageable and well worth it when you reach the lookout at the top." Trail maps are available at park offices.
Swimming facilities: Multiple campgrounds provide water recreation for children. "The park has some good trails with amazing views, a beach area and Loyalsock creek," writes a camper about Worlds End State Park. Most swimming areas are open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 11am-7pm.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Campgrounds vary in RV accommodation quality. A visitor to Ricketts Glen notes, "Nice enough site for RVs, but only four sites looked as if they were tent sites... The water source was rust laden; I wouldn't drink it." Research site specifics before booking.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. "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," reports one RVer at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the region require leveling equipment. An RVer at Jakersville CCC Campground notes, "All it takes is a permit and you can camp at a number of sites with fire rings." Bring leveling blocks as many sites have natural slopes.
