Dispersed camping near Lewis Run, Pennsylvania offers primitive campsites in the Allegheny National Forest with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. The area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation with heavily forested terrain characterized by mixed hardwoods and hemlock stands. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 20°F, while summer brings temperatures averaging 70-80°F with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Hiking near Hector Falls: Forest Road Dispersed Campsite provides direct access to this local attraction. "It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop," notes Bob J. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Winter adventure activities: The area offers cold-weather camping opportunities for those prepared for subfreezing temperatures. "It was freezing, quite literally, with nights in the low teens. The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone," shares Ian B. from Forestry Road Dispersed.
Wildlife observation: The forests around Lewis Run contain diverse wildlife including black bears. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area. I was meditating in my car one evening and a bear stood up and pushed against my window. Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," warns a camper at Forestry Road.
What campers like
Secluded tent spots: Dispersed camping areas offer varying levels of privacy. "I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy," notes Caitlin from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Affordable camping options: Patterson State Park Campground provides basic amenities at reasonable rates. "It has a really nice water well with a manual pump. Restroom is the typical hole with no flush, but is very clean," according to Fernando V., adding that while roadside noise can be an issue, star visibility remains good.
Firefly displays: During summer months, insects create natural light shows. "When it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies. To be honest that was like a show in itself," reports a camper at one of the island camping options in the region.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding some sites requires preparation. "A little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls," reports Evan about Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite. Another camper notes, "Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you."
Seasonal conditions: Late spring through early fall typically offers the most accessible camping. "May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies," suggests David B. about overgrown conditions in August. Other campers mention muddy conditions during March thaws.
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the area. "There is spotty cell service through the forest, usually you can walk around for a couple minutes and find some. I managed to get an average of 3-4 bars of 5g every day," reports a camper at Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Patterson State Park advantages: This developed campground works well for families with children. "If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play, and it is a poke-stop," notes Paula L., adding that "many consider Patterson State Park an over flow Park for when the famous 'Dark Skies' Cherry Springs State Park or the large Lyman Run State Park with its lake for swimming, boating and fishing gets full."
Tick prevention: Take precautions against ticks when tent camping near Lewis Run. "If you don't mind roughing it a bit, it's really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Found several on my boys and me," cautions Ian B.
Nearby attractions: Plan day trips to surrounding recreational areas. "This is how I discovered the often overlooked beauty of this little park. First the location of this park makes it easy to take advantage of the amenities of the two nearby parks and it's only a hop skip and a jump from mini golf and a newly installed zip line in Sweden Valley, Pa," shares a Patterson State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Some dispersed areas can accommodate smaller RVs and trailers. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. The site seeing is second to none. The forest is enchanting," reports Mark M. from Forestry Road Dispersed, who also notes "it rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door."
Road conditions: Forest service roads vary in quality and accessibility. "To get here, take Hwy 6 just east of Warren. Turn left on Kinzua road. Go about 8 miles. Stop at the Kinzua dam about 5 miles in. Turn right. Go about a mile and a half, turn right towards Jakes Rocks," advises an RVer about reaching suitable sites.
Supply runs: Plan for necessary supplies and provisions. "Howe's ace hardware is about 10 miles away with a dollar general across the street," notes a camper regarding nearby shopping options for RVers needing supplies.
