Dispersed camping sites around Pleasantville, Pennsylvania range from heavily wooded forest settings to spots along the Clarion River. The Allegheny National Forest encompasses much of this terrain, with elevations between 1,200 and 2,300 feet and frequent rainfall, especially in spring. Primitive camping options typically include established fire rings but no facilities, requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Hector Falls offers a scenic 2-mile round trip hike from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite. "Nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," notes one camper.
Target shooting: Some dispersed areas like FR437 provide unexpected activities. "Nice little hideaway, it is however right across from where people have made a makeshift shooting range, which I thought to be a bonus," according to a visitor.
Kayaking: River access points provide opportunities for water sports along the Clarion River. "We had direct River access! Quite road-We were able to walk. There were some people kayaking in the river," reports one camper who found a riverfront spot.
Wildlife viewing: The forests host black bears, deer, and various bird species. One camper at Forestry Road noted, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed areas provide good separation from other campers. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, campers appreciate the layout: "I pulled off about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint. Great time for the dogs and I."
Established fire rings: Despite being primitive sites, many locations maintain basic stone fire rings. "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," reports a Loleta Road visitor.
Weather experiences: The variable weather creates unique camping memories. "We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!" shared one Loleta Road camper.
Cell service: Unlike many remote camping areas, portions of the forest maintain connectivity. "I managed to get an average of 3-4 bars of 5g every day," noted a Forestry Road camper.
What you should know
Seasonal mud conditions: Spring camping often means dealing with waterlogged ground. A Loleta Road visitor cautioned, "When we went, the grass was growing tall, we only stayed for a night. And it was a lil muddy."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in maintenance. At Salmon Creek Dispersed, "The road is out tho so dont take a big rig," warns one camper.
Fire safety: Always check current fire restrictions as they change seasonally. Pack a portable fire extinguisher during dry periods.
Limited signage: Several areas have minimal directional markers. "A little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls," noted one visitor about Forestry Road Dispersed.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage matters for safety. "Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night. The bears are skittish, but they will find you if there's food in you camp!!"
Tips for camping with families
Tick prevention: Forest areas harbor ticks, especially in warmer months. "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," advises a parent who camped at Forestry Road.
Road noise considerations: Some sites balance accessibility with quietness. At Millstone Creek Campground, "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."
Off-season benefits: Camping outside peak summer months provides more solitude. "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," shared a Millstone Creek visitor.
Weather readiness: The area receives frequent precipitation. "Since it rains frequently here, keep your slip-on shoes handy near the door," suggests one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Road access verification: Check recent reports about road conditions. At Red Mill Pond, "The road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," warns one van camper.
Site selection for size: Various pull-offs accommodate different vehicle sizes. "There was a pond, campfire rings, and a big spot to maneuver a van," reports a Red Mill Pond visitor.
Overnight parking clarification: Verify if sites permit overnight stays. At Warner Road, "Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only."
Parking surface assessment: Look for firm ground, especially after rain. "Hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road," notes one Millstone Creek visitor, describing an ideal RV spot.
