Dispersed camping near Nanticoke, Pennsylvania offers options across Delaware State Forest and sections of the Appalachian Trail corridor. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating moderate temperature drops at night even during summer months. The underlying geology of shale and sandstone creates rocky terrain at many sites that requires careful tent placement.
What to do
Backpacking trips: Old Logger's Path provides a 27-mile loop trail system with designated camping areas along the route. One visitor shared, "Last year I had convinced my wife to go on a backpacking trip with me... She got to the end realizing that maybe she didn't pick the right boots (blisters) and her ankles were sore as well but she said she loved it and would do it again."
Day hikes from campsites: Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves as both overnight parking and access point for multiple trails. A camper noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Rock scrambling: Bake Oven Knob features technical rock formations accessible from camping areas. According to a visitor, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky."
What campers like
Hammock-friendly sites: Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers numerous trees suitable for suspension camping. A reviewer confirmed, "Good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine."
Overnight parking: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides vehicle access without requiring hiking gear. As one camper succinctly put it, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Forest scenery: Old Logger's Path features diverse woodland ecosystems throughout its network. A camper appreciated the "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest."
What you should know
Water sources: Most sites lack reliable water access, requiring campers to carry all drinking water. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, a visitor advised, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Fire regulations: Nearly all dispersed sites prohibit ground fires due to forest management policies. Campers should bring alternative cooking methods like camp stoves.
Bear safety: Appalachian Trail Campsite and other backcountry locations require proper food storage. Some designated sites provide infrastructure as noted by a camper: "Well maintained w bear boxes provided."
Permit requirements: Several locations require advance registration or permits. Thunder Swamp Trailhead specifically lists permit requirements on its information board at the site entrance.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with flat terrain for easier tent setup. Bake Oven Knob offers two large lots where "You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
Trail difficulty: Consider children's hiking abilities when selecting campsites that require walking to reach. Some areas feature rocky, uneven terrain that may challenge younger children.
Spacing considerations: Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers variable privacy levels. A visitor noted, "Perfect balance of community and space... We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking rules: Most dispersed sites restrict larger vehicles. At Bake Oven Knob, a van camper reported, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. This spot is both part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area."
Length restrictions: Forest service roads accessing many sites have limited clearance and turning radius. Larger rigs should verify access before attempting entry.
Leveling challenges: Parking areas typically lack graded surfaces. Bring leveling blocks for overnight comfort on uneven terrain.
