Tent camping near Loganton, Pennsylvania offers wilderness experiences at elevations ranging from 650 to 2,100 feet in the Appalachian Mountains. Most primitive campsites in the area remain open year-round, though state park campgrounds typically close from late fall through early spring. Winter camping is permitted at most Tiadaghton State Forest sites with proper cold-weather gear for temperatures that can drop below 20°F during December through February.
What to do
Fishing at creeks: Honey Creek at Reeds Gap State Park Campground offers native and stocked trout fishing opportunities. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" notes camper Rebecca G.
Disconnect from technology: The Loganton area provides genuine off-grid experiences where digital detox happens naturally. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," reports Danielle C. about her stay at Reeds Gap.
Stream exploration: Multiple campsites provide access to shallow streams perfect for wading during summer months. Laura from Ravensburg State Park Campground mentions "few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Natural vegetation creates separation between tent sites at most established campgrounds. Traci F. describes Ravensburg: "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive settings, bathhouses receive positive reviews when available. Paula L. specifically appreciates "a super clean, eco-shower" at Reeds Gap, describing it as "timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
Solitude on weeknights: Many campgrounds remain largely unoccupied during weekdays. Cheryl K. recounts her experience at Reeds Gap State Park Campground: "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Many access roads to primitive sites become difficult or impassable during winter and early spring. Sarah C. cautions about Ravensburg State Park Campground: "Make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
Facility distance considerations: Comfort stations may require substantial walks from certain sites. John Z. notes about Reeds Gap: "Clean nice sites. Bathhouses were a little far away."
Road noise variation: Sites nearest to access roads experience traffic noise. KK mentions about Ravensburg: "As other reviewers mention, it's right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise — would try to get a spot further away from the road if possible."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hickernell Roadside Campsites in Bald Eagle State Forest provides access to basic recreational facilities appropriate for children under 12 within walking distance of most sites.
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow creek access points with gradual entry make supervised water play possible at most established campgrounds. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" describes Rebecca G. about Reeds Gap.
Dog-friendly policies: Most area campgrounds welcome leashed pets, allowing families to bring four-legged members. Kelly C. appreciates that "Reeds Gap State Park is everything anyone who really just wants to relax needs. It's only tents and it's dog and family friendly!"
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: East Run Road Site and other Tiadaghton State Forest locations accommodate only small trailers or pop-ups under 18 feet due to narrow access roads and limited turn-around space.
Limited hookups: While some sites list electric hookups as available, most primitive locations have no utilities. Andrew G. notes about Ravensburg: "Cute little park with a decent amount to offer! The 1000 step trail is fun! Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road."
Navigation challenges: GPS directions often fail to accurately locate forest service campgrounds. Becky recommends: "Use lat and long coordinates for directions or you will be in the wrong spot."
