Dispersed camping sites near Rowland, Pennsylvania provide access to the Delaware River watershed and Pocono Mountain terrain at elevations between 800-1500 feet. Winter camping is possible but requires preparation for temperatures that can drop to single digits December through February. Most sites become accessible April through November when forest service roads are regularly maintained.
What to do
Hiking access points: Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania offers several starting points for day hikes. A recent visitor noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." This primitive site serves as a convenient base for accessing multiple trail loops.
Mountain summit attempts: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping provides access to multiple peaks. According to one camper, "Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping)." The trail climbs approximately 2,500 feet over 4.6 miles to reach the summit.
Stream fishing opportunities: Multiple free camping areas near Rowland offer access to trout streams, particularly during spring and fall stocking seasons. Local regulations require a Pennsylvania fishing license for anglers 16 and older, with special trout stamps needed for designated waters.
What campers like
Hammock-friendly sites: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 has tree spacing ideal for suspension systems. A visitor reported, "I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" The site has numerous mature hardwoods appropriately spaced for overnight hanging.
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites near Rowland maintain limited capacity, keeping crowds minimal. A camper at Hickok Brook observed, "Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area." Visitation remains low compared to developed campgrounds in the region.
Bear box availability: Some backcountry sites provide secure food storage. As one Appalachian Trail camper stated, "We'll maintained w bear boxes provided." These metal containers help protect food from wildlife and comply with regulations requiring proper food storage in black bear country.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Access roads to dispersed sites often require appropriate vehicles. One camper at Hickok Brook warned, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Water planning necessities: Free camping near Rowland, Pennsylvania typically lacks potable water sources. At Russell Brook Road, campers must bring all drinking water or filter from natural sources. Most sites require 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during summer months.
Limited designated spots: Many dispersed camping areas maintain strict capacity limits. A Hickok Brook visitor mentioned, "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town." Arriving early, especially on weekends, improves chances of securing a spot.
Tips for camping with families
Site terrain considerations: When camping with children, check site leveling before setting up. A camper at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 mentioned it's "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," which can make sleeping arrangements challenging for families with multiple tents.
Distance from facilities: When camping with children, consider proximity to basic services. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers easier access, with one visitor noting, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me." The relatively accessible location provides quicker exits if needed.
Emergency planning: No-cost camping areas near Rowland lack cell service in most locations. Families should bring detailed maps and establish meeting points in case of separation, particularly in areas with intersecting trail systems.
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking limitations: Most free camping near Rowland restricts vehicle size or prohibits overnight parking completely. Only certain trailheads permit larger vehicles, and even those have limitations. A Thunder Swamp visitor noted the accommodation is essentially "a gravel lot" rather than a developed camping area.
Turning radius challenges: Forest roads accessing primitive sites often lack suitable turn-around areas for trailers or larger vehicles. Backing long distances may be necessary on single-lane roads with limited shoulder space.
