Dispersed camping near Reno, Pennsylvania offers primitive accommodations throughout the 513,000-acre Allegheny National Forest. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau at elevations between 1,300 and 2,300 feet. Rainfall averages 42 inches annually, creating seasonal challenges on forest roads that often become rutted and slippery in wet conditions.
What to do
Hiking to Hector Falls: Access the trailhead about a mile down the road from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite for a 2-mile round trip hike. "It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop," notes Bob J.
Shooting practice: Some areas like FR437 dispersed campsite offer proximity to makeshift shooting ranges. "Nice little hideaway, it is however right across from where people have made a make shift shooting rang, which I thought to be a bonus," reports SomadNomad M.
Kayaking: The Clarion River provides opportunities for paddling when water levels permit. "We had direct River access! Quite road-We were able to walk. There were some people kayaking in the river," explains evan at Clarion River Campground.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings and evenings provide the best opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area... The bears are skittish, but they will find you if there's food in your camp!" warns Mystic S.
What campers like
Seasonal variety: Different seasons offer unique camping experiences. "I have stayed in the summer with my sons and it is better. Despite the cold and ice there were others out in it," reports Ian B. about winter camping at Forestry Road.
Private spaces: Many sites offer seclusion despite proximity to forest roads. "I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy," notes Caitlin about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Consistent availability: Even during busier seasons, the numerous dispersed sites throughout the forest typically ensure space for campers. "I've been camping here for 5 years now and it's always a good time," shares Dylan H. about Loleta Road.
Waterfront sites: Camping along the region's streams and rivers ranks high with visitors. "Many disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size of camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road," describes Kevin C. at Millstone Creek Campground.
What you should know
Forest service regulations: Standard 14-day stay limits apply, with proper waste management required. "Repeated vandalism resulted in its closure," Kevin C. notes about former toilet facilities at Red Mill Pond.
Weather impacts: Rain significantly affects campsite conditions and accessibility. "It was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else," warns Anne W. about spring conditions at Loleta Road.
Tree hazards: Inspect your camping area thoroughly before setting up. "Though I would always look for widow makers above because some of the trees seem to be diseased," cautions Tim S. at Millstone Creek.
Previous camper impact: Site conditions vary based on previous visitors. "Kind of a gross site, the previous people who stayed at our site were messy and left litter, but it served its purpose as a free place to sleep along a longer trip," notes Rose S. about dispersed camping in North Harmony State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Trail exploration: The trail system offers family-friendly hiking options. "There are these blue and orange posts signifying gas lines, those are actually the hiking trails. They don't look like normal trail heads," explains Mystic S. about navigating trails near Forestry Road.
Weather preparation: Pack extra clothing and gear for unexpected weather changes. "We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!" shares Brittney W. about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Bug protection: The forest environment requires proper insect preparation. "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," advises Ian B. after camping at Forestry Road.
Food storage: Secure all food items to prevent wildlife encounters. "Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," recommends Mystic S., who had a bear encounter while camping.
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Forest service roads vary greatly in condition and clearance. "The road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," Georgia R. notes about accessing Red Mill Pond with a van.
Site selection: Larger rigs need to carefully choose appropriate areas. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160," shares Mark M. about camping near Forestry Road.
Timing arrival: Arriving early improves chances of finding suitable sites for larger vehicles. "Busy spot. There are various large sized spots on both sides of the road. We were lucky to snag a spot on the side of the river-with our RV," reports evan at Clarion River Campground.
Surface conditions: Be prepared for potentially soft ground during wet periods. "Hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road," describes Tim S. about Millstone Creek, noting this as an advantage for parking vehicles.
