Dispersed camping near Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania provides access to multiple primitive sites across state forest lands at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop to the low teens while summer brings frequent thunderstorms to this Allegheny region. Forest service roads in this area typically require higher clearance vehicles, especially during spring thaw when mud conditions worsen.
What to do
Hike to Hector Falls: Located about a mile from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, this waterfall destination makes a perfect day trip. "There is a really cool place called Hector Falls. The trailhead is about a mile down the road from this spot. 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," notes Bob J.
Beaver watching: Morning and evening wildlife viewing opportunities abound at Palmers Pond State Forest. "Threw up the tentsile tent over looking the pond on the south side. What a wonderful way to wake up," shares Mitch P. The pond area is especially productive for wildlife sightings during dawn hours.
Forest exploration: Many primitive sites feature unmarked hiking opportunities on old logging roads. "There are tons of logging roads that split off the main forest road. They mostly have gates that say 'Logging road, no public motor vehicles allowed' but they also say 'Foot travel is welcome,'" explains one camper who discovered additional secluded spots.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the lakeside spots at Palmer's Pond. "The site was very nice. Clean and well maintained. I was able to set up next to the water with no problem," writes Marjoe M. Sites along the water tend to fill first during summer weekends.
Established fire rings: Despite the primitive nature of these sites, most locations feature fire rings. "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. about Red Mill Pond.
Tree canopy protection: The dense forest provides natural shelter during rain showers at many sites. "The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains," notes Kevin C. about Camp Seneca, where most sites have both a fire ring and picnic table.
What you should know
Directional challenges: GPS services frequently provide incorrect directions to dispersed camping areas. "The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road," advises Sydney M.
Wildlife safety: Black bears inhabit the region and require appropriate food storage. "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. Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," warns a camper at Forestry Road.
Road conditions: Many access roads deteriorate quickly after rain. "The road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," reports Georgia R. This becomes especially problematic during spring thaw when many forest roads become temporarily impassable.
Service availability: Cell service varies dramatically across sites. "The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time," notes a reviewer about specific spots at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite where patchy service exists.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: For family camping, choose sites with more established facilities. "This campground had several designated sites and most have a fire ring and picnic table. There was a porti-poty on site that had plenty of paper was pretty clean," recommends Kevin C.
Bug preparation: Tick prevention becomes essential during family outings. "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me," cautions Ian B. who camped at Forestry Road with children.
Explore wooded alternatives: When waterfront sites are occupied, check nearby forest locations. "If the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots," suggests Roger V. about Palmers Pond.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger rigs. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160," shares Mark M., noting the need to watch for rain accumulation around campsites.
Navigation challenges: RVers should scout locations before attempting access. "I have a 25-foot travel trailer and found several suitable spots on SF-160," reports another camper, emphasizing the importance of matching vehicle size to specific sites.
Weekend timing: Weekend visitors should arrive by Thursday or early Friday. "The last site on SF 160 has weekend partiers. They knock off at 11pm and are far enough away from the next site that they aren't a nuisance," explains a reviewer who found quieter weekday camping preferable.
