Dispersed camping near Kunkletown, Pennsylvania offers primitive overnight options along the eastern Pennsylvania section of the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding Delaware State Forest encompasses over 83,000 acres of mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging between 1,000-1,800 feet. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing, while summer months typically see daytime highs in the 70-80°F range with significant humidity.
What to do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: The Appalachian Trail Campsite area provides access to multiple rocky outcroppings with expansive valley views. A camper notes, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky" at Bake Oven Knob, making it ideal for day hikers staying overnight.
Explore wetland ecosystems: Several trails lead to marsh environments with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. One visitor at Thunder Swamp Trailhead reports, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," providing access to unique wetland ecosystems not typically associated with mountain terrain.
Set up hammocks: The forest canopy throughout the region offers ample hammock camping possibilities. At the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker sites, campers find "Good trees for hammocking" according to visitor reviews, with both community and private spots available.
What campers like
Bear protection systems: Safety infrastructure receives positive mentions from users. At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, campers appreciate that it's "Well maintained w bear boxes provided," offering peace of mind for food storage in bear country.
Parking lot convenience: The accessibility of some sites makes for easy overnight stays. One camper states Thunder Swamp Trailhead has a "Gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," highlighting the straightforward nature of these sites.
Balance of community and solitude: Campsites offer flexibility for different social preferences. A reviewer commented that Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides the "Perfect balance of community and space... There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
What you should know
Water planning essential: Water sources require advance planning. One camper at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 advises: "There's no water nearby... Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond" and notes the pond is approximately "a 1 round trip" hike from camp.
Site selection limitations: Some areas have strict camping regulations. A reviewer noted signs at Worthington State Forest indicating "this is the only place you can sleep in the forest" when referring to designated sites, suggesting enforcement of camping restrictions.
Terrain challenges: Expect uneven ground at many sites. One camper gave Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 "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," which affects tent placement options.
Tips for camping with families
Hammock options for kids: Consider hammocks instead of tents for rocky areas. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, a visitor mentioned being "in a hammock and it was a great place for that" while noting challenges with tent placement on sloped ground.
Unmarked sites awareness: Prepare children to recognize appropriate camping areas. A camper observed that "The site itself is unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail so it's not hard to find," suggesting the need for heightened awareness with younger campers.
Plan shorter hikes: When backpacking with children, select sites with manageable approach distances. The area contains multiple options with parking lots within short hiking distances of established camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Overnight van parking: Several parking lots accommodate small vans without hookups. One regular visitor reports, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems" at Bake Oven Knob, indicating consistent accessibility for smaller recreational vehicles.
Size restrictions: Large RVs aren't suitable for most dispersed sites. The gravel lots and limited turning space make these areas appropriate only for compact vans and small campers under 20 feet.
Alternative arrangements: Consider using these sites as day-use areas while staying at established campgrounds. The parking lots provide access points for hiking while maintaining more comfortable overnight accommodations elsewhere.
