Primitive camping near Portland, Pennsylvania offers secluded backcountry experiences along the Appalachian Trail corridor and surrounding state lands. The area features rocky terrain at elevations between 400-1500 feet with seasonal temperature variations that impact camping conditions. Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency with no amenities and strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Hiking network exploration: The Thunder Swamp Trail system provides extensive hiking opportunities for primitive campers. A camper at Thunder Swamp Trailhead noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Rock scrambling adventure: Bouldering and rock scrambling are popular activities on the ridgelines near Portland. The trail to the overlook at Bake Oven Knob is "really lovely; short and rocky" according to a reviewer who frequently stays there.
Wildlife observation: Early morning offers the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. Hickok Brook features lakeside camping where visitors can observe waterfowl and amphibians. The limited camping area means "there are only 3 spots where we are," making advance planning essential.
What campers like
Solitude options: Many backcountry sites offer seclusion away from crowds. At Hickok Brook, a camper described it as "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" noting it's "very gorgeous but not RV friendly."
Hammock-friendly terrain: Several sites feature ideal tree spacing for hammock camping. One reviewer at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 mentioned, "I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" despite giving only four stars because "there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre."
Minimal regulation: Some trailhead parking areas permit overnight stays with minimal restrictions. One Thunder Swamp Trailhead visitor simply stated, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require camping permits from local ranger offices. A Hickok Brook camper advised, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Limited water sources: Most primitive sites lack reliable water. At Appalachian Trail Campsite 2, the "nearest [water] is sunfish pond- easy hike about a 1 mile round trip."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Appalachian Trail Campsite warned about "huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites with flat terrain for family tents. At Hickok Brook, "you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Bear safety preparation: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. Campsite 2 on the Appalachian Trail is "well maintained w bear boxes provided," making it suitable for families concerned about proper food storage.
Distance planning: Consider hiking distances carefully with younger children. Bake Oven Knob offers options where "You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent. There's also a trail shelter about a .5 mile in."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking options: Some trailheads permit self-contained RVs. One visitor at Bake Oven Knob reported, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems."
Road clearance concerns: Many access roads are unsuitable for larger vehicles. A Hickok Brook visitor cautioned, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes."
Supply planning: No services exist at primitive sites. One camper at Hickok Brook advised, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
