Loyalsock State Forest offers numerous primitive tent camping options within an hour of Hughesville, Pennsylvania. The region features Pennsylvania's north-central highlands with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,100 feet. Weather conditions vary considerably with season, with summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than valley locations and winter bringing significant snowfall that may restrict access to remote sites.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Ravensburg State Park Campground, access to swimming holes makes hot weather camping more enjoyable. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," notes one camper at Ravensburg State Park Campground.
Hammock camping: The abundant trees at several state forest sites provide excellent hammock setup opportunities. "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," explains a visitor to Ravensburg.
Trail hiking: Slab Run Road Campsite provides access to multiple hiking paths connecting to the greater Loyalsock Trail system. The main trail spans 59.2 miles through the state forest and crosses numerous streams and ridges, offering opportunities for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation provides good separation at many campgrounds. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," mentions one Ravensburg visitor who appreciates the secluded feel of the campground.
Quiet environment: Grays Run Road Campsites offer some of the most secluded tent camping options in the region. While access requires navigating forest roads, the reward is minimal noise and few neighbors during weekdays.
Self-registration convenience: Many state forest campgrounds use an easy self-registration system. "Easy self-registration process, and not too many folks!" reports a camper from Shikellamy State Park, making arrival flexible without need for advance planning.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions may lead to incorrect locations or seasonal roads impassable for passenger vehicles. "Use lat and long coordinates for directions or you will be in the wrong spot," advises one Ravensburg camper. Another notes: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road."
Sound considerations: Yellow Dog Road Campsite and similar creek-side locations can be louder than expected. "The nature noise here is loud. If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids," explains a visitor. Road noise affects some campsites, particularly after rain when stream volumes increase.
Tent pad limitations: Standard tent pads may not accommodate larger tents. "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground," notes one regular camper about site selection strategies.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger presence: Despite feeling remote, security comes from regular patrols. "Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times. They are always very friendly," reports a camper at Elimsport CCC Campground.
Group camping options: Several sites can accommodate family gatherings. "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you," mentions a visitor to Ravensburg, making it suitable for family reunions or multi-family camping trips.
Weather preparedness: Higher elevation sites experience temperature fluctuations and increased precipitation. Families should pack additional warm clothing and rain gear even for summer camping, as evening temperatures can drop into the 50s even when valley temperatures remain warm.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive camping areas in the state forests near Hughesville have narrow, sometimes rough access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. Fourth Gap Road Sites can generally accommodate smaller trailers and truck campers, but larger motorhomes should stick to established campgrounds with proper RV sites.
Steep terrain challenges: "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times," warns one Ravensburg visitor, noting the elevation changes that can challenge vehicles towing trailers, particularly in wet conditions or winter months.
Facility considerations: While electrical hookups are technically listed for some state forest sites, most lack water hookups or dump stations. RVers should plan to be fully self-contained and bring all necessary water and supplies.
