Primitive camping options surround Mansfield, Pennsylvania, with many sites nestled in state forests at 1,300-2,300 feet elevation. The region's hemlock and hardwood forests provide shelter for numerous equestrian and tent camping areas within the Tioga, Tiadaghton, and Susquehannock State Forests. Most primitive campsites in this region require self-registration and payment through an envelope system.
What to do
Stargazing at Cherry Springs: Drive 45 minutes west of Mansfield to Lyman Run State Park Campground, which serves as a convenient base for experiencing Cherry Springs' dark skies. "Beautiful area all around. Up the road is cherry springs, known as our only Dark Sky Park in PA. The night sky is amazing," notes Katie S. The park's proximity makes it ideal for nighttime astronomy, with Bill G. adding, "It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars."
Fishing and swimming: Many campsites provide access to streams and lakes. Jennifer P. describes Lyman Run: "There's a beach with concessions stand and paddle boats on the lake with the prettiest skyline surrounding the lake." The lake offers trout and bluegill fishing opportunities, with Joshua L. confirming it's "Pretty easy to catch some trout and blue gill."
Trail riding: Backbone Horse Campground connects to multiple trail systems about an hour north of Mansfield in the Finger Lakes National Forest. According to Harry H., "Large camp sites have room for all your horses and horse paraphernalia. Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc."
What campers like
Privacy and space: The more remote state forest campgrounds provide quieter experiences. At Stony Fork Creek Campground, MJ B. notes: "Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level." Greg W. adds, "All of the roads were paved and sites were very large."
Clean facilities: Even primitive sites maintain good standards. Michelle L. describes her experience at Lyman Run: "Bathhouse was very clean. Had a good time fishing at the lake and stopping for ice cream at the beach shop is a must!" Greg W. also praises Stony Fork Creek: "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times."
Peace and quiet: Many campers mention the tranquil atmosphere. "We were at the Lower Campgrounds. It was perfect. It was so quiet and peaceful, did not even notice other campers around," says Michelle L. about Lyman Run. Ian A. describes Backbone Horse Campground as a "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have poor connectivity. Brandon W. warns about Stony Fork Creek Campground: "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for." Katie S. confirms this is common, noting at Lyman Run State Park, "No cell service, so you really get to get away from everything."
Distance to amenities: The remote nature means services are far away. Bill G. cautions about Lyman Run State Park: "There is a general store nearby, but the nearest town is almost 45+ minutes away."
Weather considerations: The higher elevation of these northern Pennsylvania campgrounds means significant temperature changes. Spring camping can be wet with trails often closed due to melt, particularly at horse campgrounds near Mansfield. Harry H. advises to "Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Several sites offer recreation beyond just camping. Jennifer P. notes about Lyman Run State Park Campground, "Little creek runs beside it for kids to play and explore. There's a beach with concessions stand and paddle boats on the lake with the prettiest skyline of surrounding the lake."
Playground availability: Check if campsites have facilities for children. Bran P. mentions at Tompkins Campground: "Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground."
Site selection: Some areas are better suited for families with children. MJ B. shares about Stony Fork Creek: "The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: At Tompkins Campground, Bran P. advises: "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed." Stacey C. adds that "Spots are level and paved. It is always clean."
Site spacing considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds may not suit all RVers. At Backbone Horse Campground, non-horse campers should prepare for the environment, as Brenley R. explains: "This campground is apparently ONLY for horse owners with their horses. After another camper made a passive aggressive comment about us being here without horse, we attempted to find another location."
Seasonal planning: Many horse campgrounds near Mansfield have limited opening seasons. According to Bran P., Tompkins Campground operates from "mid May-late September," so plan accordingly if bringing an RV to equestrian-focused areas.
