Tent and RV sites within Loyalsock State Forest offer natural surroundings at several key rv parks near Shunk, Pennsylvania. Camping options range from full-hookup sites to primitive tent areas with elevations between 1,300-2,000 feet. Most campgrounds remain closed during winter months from December through April due to weather conditions in the northern Pennsylvania mountains.
What to do
Hiking the waterfalls trail: The Falls Trail system at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls accessed via well-marked paths. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained," notes one visitor.
Stream fishing: Loyalsock Creek provides trout fishing opportunities at multiple access points. "Our site was right along the river, the view was amazing and the site was huge," reports a camper at Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse.
No-cell wilderness experience: Several campgrounds offer digital detox with limited connectivity. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," writes a visitor about Worlds End State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature secluded camping areas surrounded by trees. "Sites aren't too on top of each other. Easily accessible overflow parking. Our site was on a small stream so very buggy, but we also got to hear bullfrogs," reports a camper at Worlds End.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive consistent praise across most established campgrounds. "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," writes a visitor.
Four-season options: The region offers camping throughout the year, including winter. "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park for the first time in February 2016. We were immediately in love with the babbling river that ran right beside our cabin," notes one winter visitor.
What you should know
Severe weather considerations: Heavy rainfall can cause flooding at lower elevation sites. "We unfortunately got stuck in infamous Northeast PA weather but we made the best of it. There were thunderstorms and campsite was a little flooded but we were still able to camp," reports a visitor at Riverside.
Limited services: Some state forest sites require self-sufficiency. "The sites are just pull offs along the road. The road isn't heavily traveled so it's not too bad. The problem was the night that I stayed there it had been raining non stop for several day and the whole campsite was several inches of mud," notes a visitor at Loyalsock State Forest.
Water quality issues: Testing occasionally reveals water concerns. "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," reports a camper at Ricketts Glen.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special October activities. "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," notes a visitor at Pioneer Campground.
Water recreation options: Swimming areas provide summer cooling opportunities. "There is so much to do here in the summer: swimming, fishing, hiking. Amazing sunsets and Mountain View's," writes a camper about Worlds End.
Multiple playground choices: Some campgrounds feature extensive play areas. "Kids had a great time at this campground. Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly," reports a visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites based on specific needs rather than general location. "The sites vary in size quite a bit and this happened to be one of the largest ones, made for a larger camper/motor home but also had a mulched area for tents which was nice."
Limited maneuvering space: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight."
Winter cabin options: Heated accommodations available when temperatures drop. "The cabins stay very warm with a wood burning stove - sometimes even too warm and windows need to stay cracked open. We purchased wood from a local gentleman who delivered."
