The Loyalsock State Forest surrounds Shunk, Pennsylvania with dense woodland at 1,600-2,000 feet elevation. During summer months, nighttime temperatures often drop 15-20 degrees below daytime highs, requiring campers to pack both warm and cool weather gear. Roads accessing many camping areas become difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall, particularly on unpaved forest roads.
What to do
Trail hiking near creeks: At Worlds End State Park Campground, several marked paths connect directly to campsites. "Campgrounds are connected to some very cool hiking paths, very well marked. Do not miss the chance to check out cottonwood falls. Completely stunning location," notes Kate J. The park offers trails for various skill levels within walking distance of tent sites.
Creek swimming: During summer months, cool off in the natural swimming areas. "So much to do here in the summer: swimming, fishing, hiking. Amazing sunsets and Mountain View's," shares PhiladelphiaKaley R. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, so appropriate safety precautions are necessary.
Stargazing: The remote location creates excellent night sky viewing. At Pioneer Campground, campers experience minimal light pollution. "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night," reports Gregory L. Bring red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision while navigating campsites after dark.
What campers like
Disconnected experience: Many campers appreciate the lack of connectivity. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," writes Katy R. about Worlds End. Another camper adds, "It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them."
Clean facilities: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground receives positive comments about maintenance. "This is the third Pennsylvania state park we have stayed at recently and all get an A+ for the bathhouses. Very clean, heated, and the showers appear to be in good condition," notes Lee D. Some bathhouses include indoor dishwashing stations with provided soap.
Waterfall access: The region features numerous accessible waterfalls. "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike," explains one visitor to Ricketts Glen. These falls remain accessible year-round, though winter requires special equipment and preparation.
What you should know
Permit requirements: For camping in Loyalsock State Forest, permits must be obtained. "It was reported to be free with a permit but the permit was about $15," explains Jim M. Permits can be acquired at the forest office on Route 220 in Dushore.
Site locations: Forest campsites lack amenities but provide direct access to trails. "The sites are just pull offs along the road. The road isn't heavily traveled so it's not too bad," notes a camper about Loyalsock State Forest. Sites become unusable during wet periods due to mud accumulation.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience water issues. At Ricketts Glen, one visitor reported, "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth." Always verify current water conditions when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Riverside Campground offers swimming options beyond natural water features. "Pool was very nice... along side the river is nice to be by," reports Ashley T. The pool provides a controlled swimming environment for younger children when creek water runs too cold or fast.
Halloween activities: Seasonal events create memorable experiences for children. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," shares Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground. Their Halloween weekends include site decorating contests and organized trick-or-treating.
Winter cabin options: When tent camping becomes too cold, consider cabin rentals. "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016 after being convinced by friends to check it out. We were immediately in love with the babbling river that ran right beside our cabin," reports Christine D. Winter cabins typically require earlier booking due to limited availability.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: At Big Hollow Road Campsites in Loyalsock State Forest, RV sites offer more privacy than typical commercial campgrounds. "Loyalsock SF is amazing with tons of FREE sites (just need a permit from the office). This site was right off the road and close to a cabin, but otherwise very pleasant," notes Joann I. Most sites accommodate smaller RVs better than large motorhomes due to tight turning radiuses.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at most camping areas near Shunk. "We had campsite 19 - pull through with full hookups (50amp, cable, water, sewer). The site was nice and long. Even though they have had a lot of rain in this area, our jacks did not sink into the ground and the site was pretty level," shares Rick C. about Riverside Campground. Bring leveling blocks even for sites marked as level.
