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Best Dispersed Camping near Starlight, PA

7 Reviews

Several dispersed camping opportunities exist in state forests within driving distance of Starlight, Pennsylvania, primarily in New York state across the border. Most of these sites require minimal preparation as they offer no facilities. Campers must follow standard state forest regulations including the 14-day stay limit and camping at least 150 feet from water sources.

Long Pond Campground provides primitive lake access camping with larger, level sites beneath dense tree cover. The area features a portable toilet near the entrance but no water or garbage services. A public fishing dock and multiple access points for boats make this a popular spot for anglers. The forest roads leading to most sites can be challenging, with one visitor noting "the road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must." Several state forests including Whaupaunaucau, Pharsalia Woods, and Balsam Swamp offer more secluded options for those willing to hike further from parking areas. According to one visitor, Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods features "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook" with excellent birdwatching opportunities.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Starlight, Pennsylvania (9)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Starlight, PA

18 Photos of 9 Starlight Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Starlight, PA

7 Reviews of 9 Starlight Campgrounds

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2019

    Whaupaunaucau State Forest

    Hidden gem in Chenango County

    You have to work a bit to find info on the Whaupaunaucau state forest as a camping destination, but for primitive campers that is part of the appeal! This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county, but this state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing. There is an offifical lean-to shelter and developed campsite on trail 20 (see map) but there are several primitive sites with tent site and stine fireplace, plus dispersed leave-no-trace camping is allowed anywhere in the state forest, and the possibilities are endless. Lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see. Just beware of ticks, they are invading the region

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 31, 2025

    Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed

    Primitive camping at Round Pound

    This is a relatively new location for primitive camping in the Pharsalia Woods State Forest. There is a parking area just off the Plymouth Reservoir Rd that allows you to access a network of trails that traverse the state preserve around the unique Round Pond and adjacent bog. Primitive camping is allowed anywhere in the vicinity as long as you are 150 feet from the waters edge and away from the parking lot. The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem. You need to sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees. One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration. You can also access the bog pond here if using kayaks or canoes. It is like a unique wilderness location fir primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!

    For more info on the Pharsalia Woods in general, and the Round Pond in particular, visit this link on the DEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/places/pharsalia-woods-state-forest Be sure to also click on the link on that page regarding primitive camping at this site

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 28, 2017

    Balsam Swamp State Forest

    Balsam Pond campsites

    Update: since my original visit, there have been some good upgrades including new portapotty. Some of the campsites are still in need of some TLC. The location is beautiful, but the campground seems to get heavy use and has some wear and tear. Balsam Pond has a reputation as a good local fishing spot featuring trout, bass, and even tiger muskies. The pond itself is beautiful and Is one of the larger state forest ponds in the area preserved in a natural state with no shoreline development other than the small campground and the public boat launch. If you are coming for a good fishing or boating experience, you wont be disappointed as the newly built boat launch can accommodate trailers for easy access and also has a well built handicapped accessible fishing pier. Once out on the water you will enjoy good fishing or wildlife watching or paddling.

    However, if you are coming here primarily for the camping experience you may be disappointed. Though the natural setting is picturesque and secluded, the campground is not well maintained. Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all. Some have official steel fire rings, some have stone fire rings that are crumbling. All are drive in sites, some meant for trailers and others with green space for tents. A few sites are much too close to the entrance road, most are set back further in the woods, and a few are right by the lake. Unfortunately, when we were there, previous campers had strewn garbage around most of the sites; it seemed to have been there for a while so it seems there is not regular maintanence by the DEC. There is also supposed to be an outhouse at the campground, but there isnt one now. Hence my low ranking of the campground despite its nice setting.

    if you would like to camp at Balsam Pond but prefer a better option than the campground, there is one paddle-in site set away from the campground where you can Leave No Trace and hopefully other like-minded campers have done the same. You are also allowed to make your own dispersed campsite at any location of your choice within the Balsam Swamp State Firest, as long as you are more than 150 feet from the lakeshore.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. 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. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 27, 2024

    Beals Pond State Forest

    Not easily accessible in winter

    This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).

Guide to Starlight

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Starlight, Pennsylvania, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone.

Dispersed campers should check out Hickok Brook

  • This spot is known for its picturesque lakeside tent sites, providing a peaceful atmosphere for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Access is via a hike-in or walk-in, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of adventure to reach their camping destination.
  • Campers have noted the presence of picnic tables, adding a touch of convenience for meal preparation and relaxation.

Top activities while free camping near Starlight

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Balsam Swamp State Forest, which is renowned for its trout and bass fishing.
  • The area features a beautiful pond that is perfect for wildlife watching and paddling, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while taking advantage of the well-maintained boat launch for easy access to the water.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping area offers stunning views and is a great starting point for hiking to nearby mountains.
  • With spots located right by the river, this location provides a refreshing backdrop for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • The proximity to hiking trails makes it easy for campers to explore the surrounding wilderness and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Starlight, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Starlight, PA is Beals Pond State Forest with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Starlight, PA?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Starlight, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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