Dispersed camping around St. Marys, Pennsylvania offers backcountry experiences within the northern Allegheny Plateau region, where elevations range from 1,500 to 2,300 feet. Seasonal weather variations significantly impact tent camping conditions, with mid-summer temperatures averaging 75°F during the day and dropping to 55°F at night. Winter conditions often make many camping areas inaccessible due to snow and mud.
What to do
Hiking to nearby falls: Access the Hector Falls trail approximately one mile from the main camping area at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, offering a moderate 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. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Winter recreation opportunities: Winter camping allows access to seasonal activities though requires proper preparation. "It was freezing, quite literally, with nights in the low teens. The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone," warns Ian B. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Exploring trail systems: The Susquehannock Trail System connects with several camping areas. "The STS trail system runs right through it. On one side of the road (they must allow horse back riding on that section of the trail as we saw trailers of horses pull in to trail ride)," shares Paula L. from Patterson State Park Campground.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many sites provide isolation from other campers, particularly during weekdays. "At any given time you may have the whole park to yourself. If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play," explains Paula L. about Patterson State Park Campground.
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature basic fire containment. "Big open spots with established fire rings. Quiet except for the distant rumble of a train passing the town down in the valley," reports Ian H. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings are common but require proper precautions. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area. I was meditating in my car one evening and a bear stood up and pushed against my window," warns Mystic S. from Forestry Road Dispersed.
What you should know
Variable accessibility: Road and site conditions fluctuate dramatically with seasons. "When we went, the grass was growing tall, we only stayed for a night. And it was a lil muddy," notes Excelsior X. about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Navigation challenges: Finding specific tent camping sites near St. Marys can be difficult without clear directions. "A little hard to find, decided not to stay. On the same road as hector falls," shares Evan from Forestry Road Dispersed.
Limited visibility in spring/summer: Vegetation affects site quality seasonally. "Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August. Didn't end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies," advises David B. from Forestry Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Seek larger clearings: Some areas provide more open space for children. "I pulled off about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint. Great time for the dogs and I," recommends derek O. from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Consider alternatives during peak growth: Tent camping in St. Marys area becomes challenging during summer months when vegetation overtakes sites. "A few dispersed spots on this road a bit overgrown but fine for setting up a tent," reports Caitlin from Forestry Road Dispersed.
Pack for weather fluctuations: Rapid temperature changes occur even in summer. "Great little roadside campsite to get away. 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. from Loleta Road Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller recreational vehicles. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door," advises Mark M. from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Look for pull-offs: Forest roads offer sporadic suitable parking areas. "Living in a van looking for spots to stay this wasn't a bad one at all, good bit off the road, couple trails," notes brent from Loleta Road Dispersed.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies across the region. "The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time," reports Eliezera M. from Forestry Road Dispersed about connectivity in some sections of the forest.