Loyalsock State Forest offers numerous dispersed camping sites near Grover, Pennsylvania. Primitive campsites along Big Hollow Road typically require a permit which costs around $15, though the sites themselves are basic with just a fire ring. These sites are generally pull-offs along forest roads where campers park directly at their camping spot, making them accessible for most vehicles in dry conditions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park features multiple waterfalls in a relatively compact area. "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!" notes Anne P., who recommends the trail despite its challenges.
Lake activities: Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen and the lake at Ives Run offer multiple water recreation options. "Grounds had swimming area and multiple boat launch locations on large man made lake," writes Jeremy C. about Ives Run, making it suitable for families wanting varied water activities.
Backpacking routes: The Old Logger's Path provides a quieter experience for overnight hikers with pets. John S. reports: "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."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others in the region. At Worlds End State Park Campground, Katy R. suggests specific sites: "Sites 65 and 66 look like the best ones available, as they are up off the road a bit so they have a bit more privacy. The walk in sites (58-61) look nice too."
Clean facilities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. Jennifer F. says about Worlds End: "They have one of the cleanest bathrooms I've seen yet while camping. The campsites are a good size. Certain sites have more privacy than others, I'd recommend the higher loop if you can."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Grover provide opportunities to view wildlife while camping with pets. At Hills Creek State Park, Amanda H. warns: "There are black bears and other wild life at Hills Creek, take care to lock up your coolers!!! We heard some fighting raccoons at night!"
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty in the Loyalsock area. According to Katy R. at Worlds End, there's "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing." Another camper, TheKajrak, confirms: "Definitely zero cell service, which is a good thing in my opinion."
Water conditions: Water availability and quality varies between campgrounds. At Hills Creek State Park Campground, manganese has been detected in the water on occasion. Lee D. reported at one campground that "the water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered."
Road access: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Joann&WellsThePup I. notes about Big Hollow Road Campsites in Loyalsock State Forest: "Loyalsock SF is amazing with tons of FREE sites (just need a permit from the office). This site was right off the road and close to a cabin, but otherwise very pleasant."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bucktail Camping Resort (now Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds) offers numerous amenities for children. B C. reports: "Kids had a great time at this campground. Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly."
Cabin options: For families not wanting to tent camp with pets, several campgrounds offer cabin rentals. Christine D. shares about Worlds End: "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park... The cabins generally sleep 6-8 very comfortably with 4 double bunk beds in most. The cabins also have electricity and include a stove and refrigerator."
Educational programs: Several state parks offer nature programs suitable for families with pets. At Hills Creek, Amanda H. mentions: "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!" These programs can help children learn about local wildlife and ecology while camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At pet-friendly campgrounds, RV site quality varies significantly. Ally S. advises about Worlds End: "The sites vary in size quite a bit and this happened to be one of the largest ones, made for a larger camper/motor home but also had a mulched area for tents which was nice."
Seasonal considerations: RVers should be aware of weather variations when camping with pets in this region. Barbara S. reports about Hills Creek: "We spent 5 nights at this campground at the end of June 2020. We weren't impressed with the camping area. There was very little shade in most campsites so we were glad we had a cabin."
Utilities and hookups: Availability of full hookups varies between campgrounds. At Pioneer Campground, Jason notes: "Excellent campground, roomy, shady sites, pool was nice and clean," though many reviewers mention limited sewer connections at various campgrounds in the region.
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