Best Dispersed Camping near Oil City, PA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Oil City, PA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Pennsylvania camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Oil City, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Oil City, Pennsylvania (8)

    1. Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    32 miles

    "I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy."

    "This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area."

    2. Salmon Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Marienville, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 723-5150

    "Theres a few dispersed spots back here. Its pretty nice area. The road is out tho so dont take a big rig"

    3. Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Ludlow, PA
    43 miles

    "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me."

    "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."

    4. Millstone Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    33 miles

    "This was a great spot for my first dispersed camping experience. Hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road. Rock fire ring. Vault toilets were open. Sites are well spaced."

    "Size od camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road

    We came in on a Saturday and found one of the road side sites open."

    5. Clarion River Campground

    2 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    36 miles

    "We had direct River access! Quite road-We were able to walk. There were some people kayaking in the river. Dispersed spot-no cell service."

    7. Red Mill Pond

    4 Reviews
    Ridgway, PA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 927-6628

    "Been there with camper van No facilities, only some fireplaces. Good for a short stay, quiet"

    "Neutral: No amenities Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Oil City, PA

7 Photos of 8 Oil City Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Oil City, PA

30 Reviews of 8 Oil City Campgrounds


  • Mieszko M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Red Mill Pond

    Good place for one night

    Been there with camper van No facilities, only some fireplaces. Good for a short stay, quiet

  • Matt J.
    Aug. 20, 2021

    Red Mill Pond

    Dispersed, remote...and ill-kept

    Missed the words "dispersed" and "no facilities" on the USFS website... Fire circles are falling apart, there's effectively no signage, and I had the bad luck to show up after a substantial rainstorm rolled through, and both ground and grass were soaked. I bailed on this camp. If your liking for EXTREMELY rustic car camping, there's a mood for it, but it doesn't seem to be worth backpacking in, and I wouldn't recommend car camping under most circumstances. The fishing looks pretty good, but i don't fish.

  • Aliza  N.
    Jun. 26, 2022

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Free dispersed camping in the Allegheny

    We camp in a lot of primitive dispersed camping, but finding a spot like this in the east is challenging! So for that…YAY, we love it. But, it’s not perfect. The road is behind the town of Ludlow (or Sheffield depending on which direction you are coming from). From Ludlow take the “Scenic Dr” and it turns into the forestry road. Lots of pull offs off this main road and you could prob find some more private ones if you explored the smaller dirt roads off the main forestry road. No services here obvi since it’s primitive camping. Road is in good condition and most any car would have no problem driving down it.

  • Ian B.
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Nice, peaceful and free

    If you don’t mind roughing it a bit, it’s really quite nice. 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.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Red Mill Pond

    Plenty of space for a van

    Pro: There was a pond, campfire rings, and a big spot to maneuver a van. Neutral: No amenities Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes

  • Ian H.
    May. 23, 2022

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    A slice of Allegheny Heaven

    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. The road is definitely hidden behind the town of Ludlow but we were able to find it at 2am after a long drive from cape cod.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2020

    Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    Good spot

    I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy.

  • Bob J.
    Sep. 1, 2021

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Comes as advertised! Really nice spot!

    The spot I stayed is right on the marker.  There are multiple spots along the main forest road. Some you can drive your car in and tuck it back. Other spots you cant take your car at all.   There are tons of logging roads that split off the main forest road. They mostly have gates that say "Logging road, no public motor vehicles allowed" but they also say "Foot travel is welcome" I went down a few of these roads and almost always found a few spots that would be great places to set up camp if you are willing to walk a little bit from your car. 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. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop. Other than that this spot is not a bad spot at all. Fire wood can be found all around.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 3, 2025

    Millstone Creek Campground

    Tranquil

    Tremendous solitude, but it was a Thursday night in late March and very cold. This was a great spot for my first dispersed camping experience. Hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road. Rock fire ring. Vault toilets were open. Sites are well spaced. Mature forest canopy. Though I would always look for widow makers above because some of the trees seem to be diseased. I saw maybe 6 other cars the 12 hours I was there. Though I’m sure it’s busier in warmer weather.


Guide to Oil City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Oil City, Pennsylvania, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of spots to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a rustic experience surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Oil City, Pennsylvania

  • When visiting Salmon Creek Dispersed, be prepared for a hike-in experience, as access is primarily on foot. This adds to the adventure and keeps the area less crowded.
  • If you're looking for a drive-in option, consider Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite. It's a great choice for first-time dispersed campers, offering a balance of accessibility and natural beauty.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, especially at sites like Millstone Creek Campground, where amenities are minimal. Keeping the area clean ensures it remains a pristine getaway for everyone.

Activities to enjoy while free camping near Oil City

  • Hiking is a popular activity at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, where you can explore nearby trails and enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Clarion River Campground, where the river offers a chance to catch some local fish while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, FR437 dispersed campsite is located near areas where you might encounter wildlife, making it an exciting spot for nature lovers.

Dispersed campers should check out Loleta Road Dispersed

  • This site is well-reviewed for its accessibility, allowing vehicles to drive in and set up camp without much hassle. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without extensive hiking.
  • Keep in mind that while the area is beautiful, it can get muddy during certain seasons, so be prepared with appropriate footwear when visiting Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
  • The nearby road may have some traffic, but it generally remains quiet, allowing for a peaceful camping experience while still being close to essential access points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Oil City, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Oil City, PA is Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Oil City, PA?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Oil City, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.