Dispersed camping sites near Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania concentrate in the Loyalsock State Forest, where campers need permits available from the district forest office. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet, creating temperature swings that can reach 30°F between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed camping requires self-sufficiency as water sources can be unreliable during drier periods.
What to do
Hiking with waterfalls: 7-mile trail network at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls. "This state park is just beautiful with a nice lake and beautiful trails. The campground is a bit crowded during peak season without much privacy. But this is the spot to be if you wanna hit up some trails and see some gorgeous views," notes one visitor. The Falls Trail requires moderate fitness and proper footwear.
Creek exploration: Easy access at Loyalsock State Forest camping areas near Loyalsock Creek. "It is close to the Loyalsock Creek and the Loyalsock trail runs nearby so there are good hiking opportunities. The swimming and fishing at Haystacks is also fun and only a short hike," shares a camper. The distinctive rock formations create natural swimming holes popular during summer months.
Backpacking: 27-mile loop trail on Old Logger's Path offers multiple primitive camping spots. "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," reports a backpacker. The trail crosses several watersheds and requires 2-3 days to complete comfortably. Water filtration equipment recommended.
What campers like
Natural isolation: No cell service at Worlds End State Park Campground creates a truly disconnected experience. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing. Sites are well maintained and well organized, though a little close together," says a visitor. Sites 65 and 66 are noted as offering more privacy than others.
Star viewing: Minimal light pollution at camping areas throughout the region. A Pioneer Campground guest reports, "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night." For optimal star viewing, camp during new moon phases and choose sites away from the central facilities.
Fall foliage: Mid-October peak colors transform the camping experience. "I usually come in the fall in October/early November. It's my favorite time to come because it's not extremely packed with campers and the leaves are beautiful," shares a camper. Temperatures typically range 35-60°F, requiring cold-weather gear.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Free but mandatory for Jakersville CCC Campground and other Loyalsock State Forest sites. "All it takes is a permit and you can camp at a number of sites with fire rings," explains a visitor. Permits must be secured before arrival from the district office.
Water concerns: Reliability issues at multiple campgrounds. One Sunfish Pond camper warns, "The water source was rust laden; I wouldn't drink it. It came out of a black hose." Bringing your own water supply is recommended for most primitive sites.
Weather preparation: Significant temperature swings occur even in summer. A Worlds End visitor shares, "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." Emergency weather radio recommended due to lack of cell service.
Tips for camping with families
Family activities: Scavenger hunts at Pioneer Campground engage children of all ages. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," reports a family camper. The campground offers scheduled activities from April through October.
Swimming options: Beach area at Ricketts Glen provides supervised swimming. "Beach and lake activities are available as well," notes a visitor. The swimming area has changing facilities and operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11am-7pm, weather permitting.
Halloween camping: Themed weekends at Pioneer Campground during October. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool...We love decorating the sites and taking the kids trick or treating. They do a haunted woods that we felt the kids were too young for," shares a returning family. Reservations for these weekends should be made 6+ months in advance.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites at Riverside Campground accommodate larger rigs. "We had campsite 19 - pull through with full hookups (50amp, cable, water, sewer). The site was nice and long. Even though they have had a lot of rain in this area, our jacks did not sink into the ground and the site was pretty level," notes an RVer. Reservation recommended as full-hookup sites are limited.
Leveling requirements: Uneven terrain at most campgrounds requires proper equipment. A Pioneer camper advises, "The sites themselves are well kept and have a big fire pit and picnic table. I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees."
Dump station access: Limited facilities mean planning ahead. At Worlds End, "There was also a tip- the sites are down the road from the Office, so I recommend arriving during daylight hours so you don't have a hard time finding them," shares a camper. Most state forest campgrounds have no dump facilities.
