Tent campsites near Jamison, Pennsylvania provide access to the dense woodlands and rolling hills of north-central Pennsylvania's state forests. The region features primitive camping options at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,300 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the camping season. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer evenings typically cool to the mid-50s even after warm days.
What to do
Hike the Turkey Trail: At Colton Point State Park Campground, campers can access this moderately difficult trail descending into Pine Creek Gorge. "Unlike Leonard Harrison, Colton Point on the western rim of the Pine Creek Gorge isn't a tourist hub. The trails aren't built up with steps and the like, but I think the Colton Point Turkey trail is much more manageable even without them," notes reviewer Emily S.
Cross Pine Creek: During periods of low water, visitors can ford the creek from Colton Point. "Water was low enough the weekend we went, we crossed the river and hiked some of the rails to trail pathway," reports Marisa L., referencing the Pine Creek Rail Trail that follows the canyon bottom for 62 miles.
Stargaze near Cherry Springs: The region provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. Patterson State Park Campground serves as an alternative to Cherry Springs State Park's popular astronomy field. Fernando V. writes, "You can still observe the stars, but difficult for telescopes since trees cover Polaris in most of the sites."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Tiadaghton Campground in Tioga State Forest offers roadside sites with natural buffers between camping areas. According to David A., these sites provide "Roadside site 1/4 mile from the nearest site. You can drive right to the site on Hackett Rd. Very secluded and peaceful. Picnic table and fire ring, but no water or latrine."
Walk-in site privacy: Campers appreciate the solitude of walk-in sites at Colton Point State Park. "I love that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people," reports Marisa L., who adds that bathrooms are "an easy 5min walk" from campsites.
Connecting trail systems: The Susquehannock Trail System (STS) intersects with multiple camping areas. Patterson State Park provides direct trail access, as Paula L. notes: "If Hiking is your thing, the STS trail system runs right through it. On one side of the road (they must allow horse back riding on that section of the trail as we saw trailers of horses pull in to trail ride)."
What you should know
First-come camping limitations: Most primitive camping in the area cannot be reserved ahead. Patterson State Park Campground operates on a first-come basis with self-registration. According to Paula L., "This is a first come, first serve rustic campground. This is how I discovered the often overlooked beauty of this little park."
Water sources vary: Primitive sites typically lack running water. Patterson State Park provides a manual pump, which Fernando V. describes as "a really nice water well with a manual pump." Tiadaghton sites have no water sources, requiring campers to bring their own.
Pack-in, pack-out practices: Several campsites in the Susquehannock and Tioga State Forests implement strict waste management policies. Paula L. notes that Patterson has "a take it with you waste management plan that really helped us all think differently about packaging and some of the choices we make."
Tips for camping with families
Choose less-crowded options: For families seeking space for children to play freely, consider Patterson State Park. Paula L. shares, "One of the best features and why we will definitely be back is that at any given time you may have the whole park to yourself. If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play."
Consider road noise: Some camping areas sit close to rural roads. At Patterson State Park, Fernando V. cautions, "It is just next to the road, so its noisy at night when cars pass."
Pack appropriately for walk-in sites: Colton Point State Park walk-in sites require carrying gear from parking areas. Sadie S. advises, "I love the walk in sites. They take a small hike so don't over pack!"
Tips from RVers
Road conditions vary: Access roads to primitive sites in Tioga State Forest can be challenging. Julian S. warns about Tiadaghton: "Would recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles to drive to site, steep dirt roads to access it."
Expect basic amenities: RV sites in this region typically lack hookups and dump stations. Small trailers and campervans may access some primitive sites, but larger rigs require established campgrounds outside the state forests.
Consider seasonal timing: Most primitive campgrounds in the area close during winter months, with Colton Point State Park operating only from "2nd Fri April to 3rd Sun October." Spring visits often encounter muddy conditions requiring appropriate vehicle capabilities.
