Dispersed camping near Kingsley, Pennsylvania requires venturing into nearby New York state forests. Sites typically sit between 1,500-2,000 feet elevation in mixed hardwood forests with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to humid 80°F summers. Most primitive camping options require a 40-60 mile drive from Kingsley, with varying road conditions depending on season and recent weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground features multiple fishing access points including a boat launch, kayak access, and fishing pier. "People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery," reports Katelyn H. about Long Pond Campground.
Seasonal exploration: Winter camping requires additional preparation. At Beals Pond State Forest, campers should note that "the road is not maintained in the winter," according to Joshua M. Roads become difficult to navigate without high-clearance vehicles after snowfall.
Hiking nearby: While some sites lack designated trails, surrounding state forest lands offer truck trails and walking paths. For those camping at Hickok Brook, Gregg T. advises "It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY." Plan accordingly and bring sufficient supplies.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed camping locations offer adequate space between campers. Kevin C. notes that at Long Pond Campground, "The other camping spaces were close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet."
Natural surroundings: Hickok Brook offers a natural lakeside setting. Corey describes it as "Very gorgeous but not RV friendly," with lakefront tent sites providing direct water access.
Abundant resources: Free firewood availability is common in these forested areas. "Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site. Lots of good tinder left over from previous guests which has been helpful," mentions Katelyn H.
Level campsites: Terrain at established sites tends to be flat. Kevin C. observes that at Long Pond Campground, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping sites have minimal or no facilities. Kevin C. points out that Long Pond "has no water or garbage service and no phone signal" and "Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging. For Russell Brook Road, high-clearance vehicles are recommended. At Hickok Brook, Corey warns "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Permit requirements: Some locations require permits. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. discovered "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Site limitations: Camping areas may be smaller than expected. Gregg T. describes Hickok Brook as "Small, don't blink you'll miss it. There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping."
Tips for camping with families
Restroom planning: Toilet facilities are limited or nonexistent. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond Campground, "We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie. While this is next to the road, it is also within 40 yards of the only potta potty in the park."
Accessible sites: Some areas offer more family-friendly access. At Long Pond Campground, "Campsite 1 is adjacent to the handicapped fishing pier, and is supposedly an accessible campsite," says Janet R., though she cautions that wheelchair access may still be limited by gravel surfaces.
Insect preparedness: Bug protection is essential during summer months. Corey describes Hickok Brook as having "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites." Bring appropriate repellents and protective clothing.
Solar limitations: Thick forest canopy can restrict solar charging. Kevin C. mentions at Long Pond Campground, "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel." Pack alternative power sources for extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: These dispersed sites accommodate only small rigs. Corey found that at Hickok Brook, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road."
Campsite access: Individual sites typically feature direct access from main roads. Kevin C. notes Long Pond Campground sites "are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy."
Stay duration: Standard regulations permit extended stays. Katelyn H. explains, "I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
