Dispersed camping near Grover, Pennsylvania offers options across two state forests and multiple state parks, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 2,000 feet in the Appalachian Plateau region. Many forest sites require advance permits that can be obtained online or at district offices. The region experiences average rainfall of 40-45 inches annually, creating wet conditions on trails and campsites, especially during spring thaws and summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 22 waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park can be viewed on either a 4-mile moderate hike for 18 falls, or a 7-mile route to see all 22. "The trails are very well marked," notes one visitor who warns, "if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike." The trails feature some steep and rocky sections.
Swimming and beach access: Several campgrounds have designated swimming areas with beaches. Hills Creek State Park Campground features a snack bar with ice cream near the swimming area. "Lake available for swimming complete with snack bar, including ice cream," reports one camper who also mentioned the educational programs offered by park rangers.
Hiking the Old Logger's Path: This 27-mile loop trail in Loyalsock State Forest offers remote camping options with multiple stream crossings. A backpacker shares, "Last year I had convinced my wife to go on a backpacking trip with me but of course Covid-19 got in the way because of child care issues. Finally this year it happened." This moderately difficult trail requires proper footwear as the backpacker noted his wife "didn't pick the right boots (blisters) and her ankles were sore."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Worlds End State Park Campground offers excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night," writes one reviewer who appreciated the separation from "daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them." The lack of cell service enhances the disconnected experience.
Stream sounds for sleeping: Many campsites are positioned near creeks and streams, offering natural white noise. "The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," reports a Worlds End visitor who recommended sites 65 and 66 as being "up off the road a bit so they have a bit more privacy." Walk-in sites 58-61 were noted as good for groups.
Heated facilities in winter: Hills Creek State Park Campground offers modern cabins with heating for cold-weather camping. "We were impressed with the 2 bedroom cabin. The kitchen had the usual plus a microwave, toaster and coffee pot," noted a visitor who stayed 5 nights. The porch was "delightful to sit on during a rainy morning," providing comfort during inclement weather.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited or no service. "No cell service, which is refreshing," mentioned a Worlds End camper, while another noted, "there's pretty much zero cell service, which is a good thing in my opinion." Download maps or important information before arriving.
Manganese issues in water: Water quality can be inconsistent. One Ricketts Glen visitor 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." Bring drinking water when visiting.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The only draw back is that it fills up quickly and you need to reserve many months ahead of time especially for holidays," warns an Ives Run visitor. Some state forest sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with required permits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hikes: Shorter loops with manageable terrain work best for children. "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," shares a Worlds End State Park cabin user.
Halloween camping events: Several campgrounds host special October activities. "This has become a new tradition for our family and friends," writes a Pioneer Campground visitor who enjoys "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."
Indoor dishwashing stations: Some park facilities include sheltered areas for washing dishes. "There was also a dishwashing sink with dish detergent INSIDE the bathhouse (women's– not sure about men's!), something I have never seen before but which was appreciated in the colder months," reported a Loyalsock State Forest camper who found this feature particularly useful during cooler weather.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Ives Run Campground offers full-hookup sites but with some practical challenges. "Some site you will need 2 hoses for your water because the hook ups are far from the sites and some of them will have the hook up facing the front of your camper," warns a regular visitor. Bring extra-long hoses and extension cords.
Leveling requirements: Most campsites in the region require leveling blocks. "The sites themselves are well kept and have a big fire pit and picnic table. I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees and it gets a little hard sometimes to see where the road is vs a site," notes a Pioneer Campground visitor.
Limited sewer connections: Many campgrounds have dump stations rather than full hookups. "I don't believe most sites have a sewer connection, and 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 a Pioneer camper who appreciated this additional service.
