Dispersed camping near Jermyn, Pennsylvania includes several primitive sites across northeastern Pennsylvania and southern New York state. The region sits within the Pocono Mountains and Upper Delaware River watershed, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,800 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures frequently below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides direct access to extensive hiking networks within Delaware State Forest. "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes Jason R. from Thunder Swamp Trailhead.
Waterfront exploration: Russell Brook Road sites allow campers to explore nearby streams and fishing spots throughout state forest land. The location serves as a base for day trips to water features in Catskill Park.
Wildlife observation: Primitive camping areas throughout the region offer opportunities to spot native wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Morning and evening hours provide optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Beals Pond State Forest offers secluded sites away from crowds and developed areas. The remoteness creates an authentic wilderness experience, though campers should note potential access issues. "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon," reports Joshua M. from Beals Pond State Forest.
Hammock-friendly sites: The Appalachian Trail campsites feature trees appropriate for hammock camping. "We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT. There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too. Well maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking," writes Katharine T. from Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2.
Vehicle-accessible options: Some sites offer parking directly at camp spots. "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," reports Benjamin H. about Thunder Swamp Trailhead.
What you should know
Water planning requirements: Dispersed sites lack potable water sources. "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre. Also it's a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" explains Renee Z. about the Appalachian Trail site.
Limited capacity sites: Many dispersed areas accommodate only small numbers of campers. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," reports Gregg T. from Hickok Brook.
Ground conditions: Sites often feature uneven terrain requiring careful tent placement. Prepare for rocky or sloping ground at most dispersed locations. Portable camp chairs can help compensate for uneven sitting areas.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Check road conditions before attempting family trips. "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere," warns Corey from Hickok Brook.
Safety equipment: Bear activity requires proper food storage in all regional dispersed sites. Pack bear-resistant containers if camping in areas without bear boxes.
Campsite selection: Scout flat areas for family tents. Many sites contain slopes or uneven terrain that make large tent setup challenging. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure limited flat spots at Russell Brook Road sites.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle restrictions: Most dispersed sites have limited RV access. "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must," notes Corey about attempting RV access at Hickok Brook.
Seasonal planning: Winter camping requires specific preparation. "After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter," reports Joshua M. about Beals Pond State Forest access.
Size limitations: Small trailers and truck campers fare better than large RVs at most sites. No hookups or dumping facilities exist at any dispersed locations near Jermyn.
