Dispersed camping and established campgrounds dot the landscape within the Pennsylvania Wilds near Ralston, a small unincorporated community at 800 feet elevation surrounded by mountainous terrain. Camping options range from primitive sites along trails to full-hookup facilities with modern amenities. The region experiences substantial seasonal temperature variations with winter lows often below freezing and summer highs reaching the mid-80s.
What to Do
Hiking to waterfalls: Explore the Loyalsock State Forest trails for impressive waterfall views. Pioneer Campground offers access to nearby hikes. A camper noted, "Cottonwood Falls [is a] completely stunning location" that shouldn't be missed when hiking the well-marked trails at Worlds End State Park Campground.
Trail systems: The Old Logger's Path provides a multi-day backpacking opportunity. According to one backpacker at Old Logger's Path: "Last year I had convinced my wife to go on a backpacking trip with me but of course Covid-19 got in the way because of child care issues. Finally this year it happened."
Water recreation: The Susquehanna River offers fishing and boating opportunities. At Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse, campers report: "We all took the kayaks out on the Susquehanna River that runs behind the property for a sunny paddle."
What Campers Like
Privacy levels: Site spacing varies significantly across campgrounds. At Pioneer Campground, campers appreciate that "The sites are nice and big" with generous spacing between neighbors.
Natural surroundings: The heavily wooded camping areas provide shade and wildlife viewing. One camper at Pioneer Campground mentioned that "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds offer relief from summer heat. A visitor noted: "When it is brutally hot, this Campground is always cool. Large shaded sites that you don't feel like your right on top of the next camper."
Social opportunities: Several campgrounds host regular events and activities. Riverside Campground features "a restaurant on site with music on weekends with local bands or DJs" and many campers enjoy the social atmosphere.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October with limited winter availability. At Little Pine State Park Campground, a reviewer notes they "go back again & again" but particularly recommends fall visits when "it's not extremely packed with campers and the leaves are beautiful."
Cellular connectivity: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. One camper at Worlds End State Park mentioned: "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing."
Hunting seasons: Be aware of hunting activities when hiking. A camper reported: "When we tried to hike to Cottonwood Falls, hunting was allowed; since we were not wearing blaze orange, we decided to turn back."
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions. Dispersed sites in Loyalsock State Forest were described by one camper as having "several inches of mud" after continuous rain, with "no grassy areas to park near."
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. A visitor to Hills Creek State Park Campground reported: "The swim area is one of the best around. Playgrounds are fun & the snack stand is a little expensive, but delicious!"
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning experiences. At Hills Creek, "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!"
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special seasonal activities. A family visiting Pioneer Campground shared: "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- maybe next time!"
Cabin options: Consider cabins for family comfort in cooler weather. Worlds End State Park offers rustic cabins where "The cabins stay very warm with a wood burning stove- sometimes even too warm and windows need to stay cracked open."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites are limited in the region. At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, an RVer noted: "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."
Accessibility challenges: Road conditions vary widely between campgrounds. At Riverside Campground, campers should be aware that "Sites are a little close in some areas" but the campground can accommodate "Everything from pop ups to big rigs."
Dump station congestion: Plan accordingly for busy checkout days. One camper observed that at Pioneer Campground, "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."
Leveling needs: Prepare for uneven sites. A camper advised: "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... make sure to bring leveling blocks."
