Dispersed camping opportunities in the Allegheny National Forest region provide the primary tent campsites near Mill Run, Pennsylvania, with most sites located along forest service roads. Several camping options exist across elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,100 feet throughout the region. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer brings humid conditions with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Hector Falls trail connects to Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite about one mile from most camping areas. "There is a really cool place called Hector Falls. The trailhead is about a mile down the road from this spot. 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," notes camper Bob J.
Trail system access: The Susquehannock Trail connects to several camping areas in the region, including Patterson State Park Campground. "If Hiking is your thing, the STS trail system runs right through it. On one side of the road (they must allow horse back riding on that section of the trail as we saw trailers of horses pull in to trail ride)," reports Paula L.
Star observation: Though not as renowned as nearby Cherry Springs, many campsites still offer night sky viewing. "You can still observe the stars, but difficult for telescopes since trees cover Polaris in most of the sites," explains Fernando V. about Patterson State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many dispersed sites allow campers to choose their desired seclusion. "I found numerous spots on SF-160. The site seeing is second to none. The forest is enchanting," writes Mark M. about Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Road accessibility: Most forest roads remain passable for standard vehicles. "This spot is a boondocker's delight! Big open spots with established fire rings. Quiet except for the distant rumble of a train passing the town down in the valley," says Ian H. about Forestry Road.
Low usage periods: Weekday camping often means having entire camping areas to yourself. "One of the best features and why we will definitely be back is that at any given time you may have the whole park to yourself," reports Paula L. about Patterson State Park Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain and mud frequently affect camping conditions. "When we went, the grass was growing tall, we only stayed for a night. And it was a lil muddy," explains Excelsior X. about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: Bears inhabit the forest and frequently visit camping areas. "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 Mystic S.
Seasonal variations: Winter camping requires additional preparation. "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," advises Ian B.
Tips for camping with families
Open space benefits: Some camping areas provide ample room for children's activities. "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. about Patterson State Park Campground.
Tick prevention: Insect protection remains essential during warmer months. "Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," advises Ian B.
Road noise considerations: Some campsites experience vehicle noise due to proximity to roadways. "It is just next to the road, so its noisy at night when cars pass," cautions Fernando V. about Patterson State Park.
Tips from RVers
RV site locations: Several forest roads accommodate larger vehicles with established pull-offs. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door. Great hiking/biking," shares Mark M. about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Navigation challenges: Finding suitable dispersed camping can require persistence. "Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August. Didn't end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies," warns David B.
Service availability: Limited cell service exists throughout the camping areas. "The spot next to the hiking trail has WiFi 70% of the time. I would give this a 5 star if it didn't rain so much," notes Mark M.
