Campsites near Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania provide access to the northern region of Loyalsock State Forest, an area characterized by elevations between 1,200 and 2,100 feet. This terrain creates distinct microclimates where summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during day and 45-65°F at night. Primitive camping options often require permits obtained from forest offices, while established campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities including hookups, shower facilities, and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers direct access to 22 named waterfalls along well-maintained trails. "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," notes Lee D.
Trail exploration: Old Logger's Path in Loyalsock State Forest provides backpacking opportunities with tent sites along the route. "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," reports Mike D. This 27-mile loop trail offers multiple primitive campsites for overnight hikers.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds maintain swimming options during summer months. At Whispering Pines Camping Estates, "The pool down the road was perfect for the kids and just right for adults to get in and cool off," according to Sharon B., who also mentions canoe/kayak rentals available at their pond.
Historical sites: Montgomery riverfront near Riverside Campground connects to local heritage sites. "Came thru for a night and wanted to catch a game at the Little League World Series. Stayed here one night and caught an uber to the museum and game," shares Jennifer H., highlighting the campground's proximity to Williamsport attractions.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Pioneer Campground offers secluded tent areas surrounded by trees. "Our tent site was secluded and quiet, but not too far off the beaten path! It was super hot so the pool was a nice cool down after a long day," reports Heather K., who visited during a holiday weekend.
Night sky viewing: Several forest camping locations provide excellent stargazing opportunities. "It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them... Definitely a good spot if you're searching for peace and quiet. Also there's pretty much zero cell service, which is a good thing in my opinion," writes TheKajrak about Worlds End State Park.
Family-oriented activities: Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA provides numerous planned events for children. "There are many activities available: swimming pool, recreation hall, fishing pond, biking, hiking/walking, mini golf, jumping pillow, playground, basketball, shuffleboard and more," notes JOHN T., who adds that their cable TV and WiFi connections were reliable.
Creek access: Multiple camping options feature water access. "The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing. Sites are well maintained and well organized, though a little close together. Sites 65 and 66 look like the best ones available, as they are up off the road a bit so they have a bit more privacy," explains Katy R. about Worlds End State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have minimal to no connectivity. "No cell service, which is refreshing," reports Katy R. about Worlds End State Park, while Jennifer notes at Whispering Pines: "We have Verizon and my work phone is T-Mobile and at most would get 2 bars of LTE but it mostly stayed at 1."
Permit requirements: Dispersed camping in Loyalsock State Forest requires authorization. "Loyalsock SF is amazing with tons of FREE sites, just need a permit from the office," explains Joann&WellsThePup I. about Big Hollow Road Campsites.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Pioneer Campground runs from early April to early December, with Halloween events being especially popular. "Camped in October 2020 for Halloween weekend. Nice hiking trail. Very clean. Owners are so friendly and helpful," notes Heather P.
Water quality variations: Some campgrounds experience periodic water issues. At Ricketts Glen, one visitor noted: "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth."
Tips for camping with families
Event weekends: Knoebels Campground offers direct access to an amusement park with free admission (pay-per-ride). "This place has so many beautiful waterfalls and sights to see! Be sure to take a trip to the fire tower and to the falls. There are many different walks with different difficulty which is nice no matter what who you are with," recommends Meag F.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The playground was fantastic and looked to be new, and there was a jumping pillow and a pool," notes Jessica N. about Williamsport South-Nittany Mountain KOA, which also offers gem mining activities popular with children.
Animal encounters: Petting zoo opportunities exist at select locations. "They have a petting zoo, jump pillow, and regularly scheduled activities," mentions Traci F. about the KOA, while others reference wildlife viewing opportunities along forest trails.
Quieter sites: When booking at busier campgrounds, request locations away from main roads. "Loop B offers more secluded campsites for tents with a few walk up sites as well," advises Ally S. about Worlds End State Park, noting that sites near roads feel like "roadside camping."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites in the area require adjustment equipment. At Ricketts Glen, James S. notes, "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C."
Dump station access: Limited waste disposal facilities can create morning congestion. One visitor to Pioneer Campground observed: "I don't believe most sites have a sewer connection, and there is only one dump station, but the owner John was going around pumping people out Sunday morning when the line to the dump station was long."
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations create variable conditions. "If you come in the fall, make sure you bring a cold weather sleeping bag or heater because the temp does drop," advises Jennifer F. about camping at Worlds End State Park during October/early November.
Grocery planning: Limited shopping options exist near most campgrounds. Charlie & Danielle B. note about Whispering Pines: "There's one small grocery store and a couple restaurants about 9 minutes away but no big store or fast food place. The nearest Walmart is about 25-30 minutes away so just have everything you need before you come."
