Tent camping opportunities around Montoursville, Pennsylvania extend beyond established state parks into extensive state forest lands. Situated within Pennsylvania's Allegheny Plateau, the region features elevations ranging from 500-1,800 feet and is characterized by deeply carved stream valleys and forested ridges. Winter camping is restricted in many primitive areas due to seasonal road closures, typically from mid-December through April.
What to do
Creek exploration: Several creeks run through Tiadaghton State Forest camping areas, including those along East Run Road Site where campers can find deeper swimming holes. As one camper mentioned about a nearby park, "There are few hiking trails, short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
Hammock setup: Wooded sites provide numerous hammocking options. State forest campsites often feature mature trees spaced appropriately for hammock camping. At some locations campers note, "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek."
Overlook viewing: The observation areas at Shikellamy State Park provide panoramic river views. According to a visitor, they enjoyed "walking the trails and enjoying a picnic at the cliff-side pavilion." The overlook provides perspectives of the Susquehanna River that cannot be seen from campsites.
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: The rushing water creates a natural sound buffer at creek-adjacent sites. One camper noted about camping near water, "The nature noise here is loud. If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids." This provides privacy from other campers despite relatively close site spacing.
Minimal crowds: Many primitive sites in Loyalsock State Forest remain uncrowded even during peak season. This differs from more developed campgrounds that fill quickly during summer weekends. State forest camping permits are required but sites are often available even when park campgrounds are full.
Distinctive amenities: Some campgrounds provide unique features not commonly found elsewhere. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, "They have tent pads which are nice" and "there is no electric but there are spots to get water even placed throughout." These raised tent pads help during wet weather conditions common to the area.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can lead to incorrect locations or impassable roads. A camper at Ravensburg advised, "Use lat and long coordinates for directions or you will be in the wrong spot." Another noted, "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road."
Permit requirements: Most primitive sites in Tiadaghton State Forest require advance permits through the DCNR website despite their undeveloped nature. Permits typically cost $10-15 per night and must be displayed at campsites.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite remote locations. One camper noted a park was "right near a road so you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise" and recommended to "try to get a spot further away from the road if possible." Roadside camping in state forests similarly experiences varying levels of vehicle traffic.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Ravensburg provides "modern toilets and shower" that are "small, but clean and adequate," while most forest campsites lack toilet facilities entirely, requiring portable solutions or a drive to nearest facilities.
Group camping options: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings. As one camper pointed out, certain campgrounds are "good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you." Fourth Gap Road Sites and similar forest camping areas allow reserving adjacent sites.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences sudden summer thunderstorms and significant spring rainfall. Valley locations can become surprisingly humid in summer months. A camper observed, "It's very humid so many picnic tables have green moss," indicating the moisture levels campers should prepare for.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many primitive areas advertised as suitable for RVs have difficult access roads. The steep valley terrain around Elimsport CCC Campground requires careful navigation. One visitor to a nearby park noted, "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times."
Length limitations: Forest roads typically accommodate smaller RVs only, with 25 feet being the practical maximum for most sites. Larger rigs should stick to developed campgrounds rather than primitive state forest sites.
Limited hookups: State forest campsites lack water and electric connections despite listings suggesting otherwise. Self-contained camping is essential as most primitive sites have no services available on site.
