Dispersed camping near Westfield, Pennsylvania centers around several state forests in nearby New York. Sites in this region sit at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night even in summer. Unpaved forest roads provide primary access to most camping areas, with road conditions varying seasonally based on maintenance schedules and weather events.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sugar Hill Recreation Area offers access to nearby fishing spots. "We found a site right away. Ranger is super friendly. Our area was slightly isolated but a trail was next to it so horseback riders just appear occasionally to bright your day," notes camper Darrell K.
Wildlife observation: The secluded nature of these camping areas provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Palmers Pond State Forest, camper Mitch P. reports, "Place was incredible! I drove out from Wisconsin and was the only on there. Threw up the tentsile tent over looking the pond on the south side. What a wonderful way to wake up."
Hiking trails: Several forests feature interconnected trail systems for day hikes. "Moderate traffic on road at night. Clean vault toilet. Nice hiking trails at the moment (pretty close to overgrown at this point in the season). Great free location between destinations," describes Ann M. about her experience at Sugar Hill Recreation Area.
What campers like
Seclusion level: Many campsites offer significant privacy. "No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp," shares Casaundra H. about her experience at Palmers Pond State Forest.
Natural settings: Old Logger's Path provides backpacking opportunities through scenic forest terrain. "Last year I had convinced my wife to go on a backpacking trip with me but of course Covid-19 got in the way because of child care issues. Finally this year it happened. She got to the end realizing that maybe she didn't pick the right boots (blisters) and her ankles were sore as well but she said she loved it and would do it again," reports John S.
Ease of access: Despite being dispersed sites, many are relatively accessible. "The written directions from other reviews were easy to follow. The road was gravel but pretty easy to drive. I found one of the first spots and was very comfortable. Beautiful space, some people drove past but not much noise aside from that," writes Caitlyn R. about Palmers Pond.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Several camping areas have confusing access routes. "The coordinates are wrong. Search for sugar hill fire tower and you'll find it. (42.3868868, -77.0025425). The place itself is really great," advises Joel M. about Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite.
Site availability patterns: Weekday visits typically offer better site selection. "Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night," observes Kevin C. at Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite.
Forest maintenance issues: Some areas receive inconsistent maintenance. At Ossian State Forest on Scoville Road, Daniel R. notes, "I've camped here in the past and it was really nice. Obvious that the area has not been tended to in some time. Only a couple of the primitive sites are accessible and most of the trails are choked with growth or blocked with fallen trees."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Look for sites with level ground and natural shade. "We pulled in just before dark to find 8 other campers already settled in. The sites were spacious. It was a cool and windy night, which made it perfect for sleeping," recommends David G. about Sugar Hill Fire Tower.
Bathroom considerations: Some sites offer better facilities than others. "This campground is basically a big field surrounded by the forest. The sites are really nice, each one has a table with benches and a fire place. You can drive your car in here (gravel road). It has a toilet house," reports Joel M.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can occur, particularly in spring and fall. "The site was very nice. Clean and well maintained. I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back," shares Marjoe M. about his May camping experience at Palmers Pond.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Stewart Road Horse Camp and other nearby areas have drive-in sites but require careful navigation. "We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably," advises Paulina B.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service is unreliable in most areas. "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars. Despite this minor inconvenience, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay," adds Paulina B. about her Sugar Hill Recreation Area experience.
Solar charging opportunities: Consider sun exposure for power needs. "Very well maintained. Some sites are close and some a spread out. About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging," shares Andrew S. about managing power at Sugar Hill Recreation Area.
