Dispersed camping near Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania provides access to the eastern Pennsylvania woodlands at elevations between 400-1,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and moderately cold winters. Fall brings vibrant foliage colors while spring creates variable trail conditions with mud and occasional flooding at water crossings.
What to do
Hiking at Bake Oven Knob: Access the Appalachian Trail directly from the parking areas. The trail to the overlook is "short and rocky" with expansive views of the surrounding ridgelines. As reviewer Dani T. notes, "There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
Trail exploration near Thunder Swamp: The extensive trail system offers day hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Jason R. reports, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." The Thunder Swamp Trail system includes over 26 miles of interconnected paths through diverse forest environments.
Wildlife observation: Early morning hours offer the best chances to spot white-tailed deer, turkey, and various bird species. The lakeside setting at Hickok Brook creates opportunities for small mammal and waterfowl sightings. One camper describes it as "very gorgeous" despite the challenging access road.
What campers like
Natural solitude: The rustic camping options near Shawnee on Delaware provide peaceful experiences away from developed areas. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Benjamin H. found that "No one bothered me" and appreciated the "plenty of shade" available at this gravel lot camping area.
Hammock camping opportunities: The forested terrain creates excellent hammock hanging options at many sites. Katharine T. noted that at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, there are "good trees for hammocking" and that while they "thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine."
Accessible overnight options: For those with vehicles, several trailheads permit overnight parking. Dani T. reports about Bake Oven Knob: "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. This spot is both part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area."
What you should know
Water sourcing challenges: Most dispersed sites require carrying water or filtering from natural sources. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, Katharine T. notes there's "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Permit requirements: Many camping areas require permits obtained in advance. Gregg T. advises regarding Hickok Brook: "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Limited designated sites: Many areas have specific camping restrictions. Hickok Brook has "only 3 spots" according to Gregg T., who adds "No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town."
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites may require appropriate vehicles. At Hickok Brook, Corey warns "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Look for camping areas with sufficient flat ground for multiple tents. Katharine T. notes that at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, "There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
Safety preparation: Bear activity requires proper food storage in this region. Katharine T. mentions the area is "well maintained w bear boxes provided," reducing concerns about wildlife encounters.
Site identification: Not all primitive camping areas are clearly marked. Renee Z. notes about finding a campsite: "The site itself is unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail so it's not hard to find."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: The rustic camping options near Shawnee on Delaware typically accommodate only smaller vehicles or vans rather than large RVs. Corey at Hickok Brook learned, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup...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."
Supply preparation: With limited facilities, self-sufficiency is essential. Gregg T. advises to "Bring everything with you" and notes "there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY" for emergency supplies.
Parking lot camping: Some trailheads offer overnight options for vans or truck campers. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot" that worked well for an overnight stay.
