Primitive campsites near Starlight, Pennsylvania offer quiet alternatives to developed campgrounds. The region spans Pennsylvania and New York state forests at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet with seasonal access restrictions. Several areas require walking or hiking to reach tent sites, while vehicle-accessible options exist at designated locations.
What to do
Hiking around Alder Lake: The loop trail circling Alder Lake provides an easy walking path suitable for all skill levels. "The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely," notes one visitor who also recommended the nearby Balsam Lake fire tower for area views.
Explore nearby preserves: Several wildlife areas and state parks offer day trip options within 30 minutes of campsites. "Within a half-hour of the campsites are the Merli-Sarnoski Park and the Lackawanna and Salt Srings State Parks--which offer hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities," according to a camper at Oh! Pear Orchards.
Seasonal water activities: Many sites offer fishing or swimming opportunities during warmer months. At Alder Lake, one visitor mentioned, "We had a stellar time just hiking down the path and relaxing by the water. There's no noise at night apart from the running water of the stream."
What campers like
Creekside camping: Several sites offer proximity to moving water, creating natural white noise for sleeping. At Quilted Woods, tent sites sit near small streams, while Oh! Pear Orchards campers consistently praise their creek-adjacent locations, with one noting, "This is a special place! Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool."
Secluded spots: For those seeking privacy, walk-in sites provide separation from other campers. "The campsites are very spacious with lots of room between you and other campers, and have a fire pit and some have picnic tables," explains a visitor to Alder Lake who appreciated the separation between sites.
Fall foliage viewing: The region's deciduous forests make autumn camping particularly scenic. A camper at Belden Hill Campgrounds noted, "Great views from the campground are great," with another mentioning, "The views for the pull through weekender sites are to die for."
What you should know
Winter access limitations: Forest roads to primitive sites often become impassable after snowfall. A camper at Beals Pond State Forest reported: "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."
Variable cell service: Most remote camping areas have limited or no cellular connectivity. Bring physical maps and prepare communications accordingly. One Alder Lake visitor pointed out "No cell service" as part of their camping experience summary.
Site competition: During peak summer weekends, primitive sites fill quickly, particularly at no-cost locations. "We arrived around 11:00 am and the parking lot was already packed and cars were lined up along the road. We grabbed one of the three spots that were left," reported an Alder Lake visitor who ultimately left without staying overnight due to crowds.
Tips for camping with families
Tent site accessibility: When camping with children, consider distance from parking to tent sites. At Oh! Pear Orchards, "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site."
Bug preparedness: Insect activity can be significant, especially near water sources. "Bugs were pretty bad," noted an Alder Lake camper, suggesting families bring appropriate repellents and screening options.
Family-tested sites: Choose locations with confirmed family-friendly feedback. "Our family of 4 has camped all of the US and this was one of our favorite spots," shared a family that stayed at Hillside Campgrounds, indicating accommodations suitable for groups with children.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: The final approach to many sites requires navigating unpaved forest roads. "It's not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it," advises an RV camper who visited Alder Lake.
Limited hookups: Most primitive sites lack water, electric and sewer connections. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, however, a visitor noted, "Good working utilities on nice sites," making it one of the few options with services for RVs near Starlight.
RV size restrictions: Large rigs cannot access most forest camping areas. "Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts...lower clearance vans might not make it," explained a van camper, highlighting the importance of vehicle clearance when accessing primitive sites.
