The dispersed camping areas surrounding Troy, Pennsylvania offer a variety of free and primitive camping options within the northern Pennsylvania woodlands. Most sites are situated between 1,500-2,000 feet elevation, with access varying seasonally due to the region's considerable snowfall from November through March. Dirt forest roads often close during winter months, with gradual reopening through April depending on conditions.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: The 27-mile Old Logger's Path loop trail provides multiple primitive campsites along its route. "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," notes Mike D. about Old Logger's Path, which features several stream crossings and designated camping areas.
Bird watching opportunities: Foster Pond in the Finger Lakes National Forest serves as a hub for watching migratory birds. "Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest," explains Jacob D. about Foster Pond Camping Area, noting its lakeside location provides habitat for various bird species.
Explore fire towers: Several campsites offer access to historic fire towers with panoramic views. "There is a Forest Fire Lookout Tower next to the bathrooms," mentions Kevin C., highlighting one of the notable features at Sugar Hill Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at dispersed camping areas. "Camp sites are roomy," notes Andrew S. about Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping, adding that "some sites are close and some are spread out. About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day."
Reliable facilities: Despite being free sites, some areas maintain clean restrooms. "Bathrooms with actual toilets and running water!" reports licia S. about Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, which offers more amenities than typical dispersed sites.
Proximity to attractions: Campers value the strategic location for exploring the region. "Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers," explains Brittany S., highlighting the convenient base for day trips.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent across most dispersed sites. "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars," reports Paulina B., who stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days.
Registration requirements: Most sites have specific check-in procedures. "Register for overnight at bathroom building kiosk. Day visits just sign log," advises one camper, explaining the self-registration system used at many free sites.
Site variability: Conditions can differ significantly between camping areas. "The road in (a loop) is steep on both sides (a truck or vehicle with clearance would be helpful but you could also park at the bottom if you needed to)," warns Sarah M. about a site in Finger Lakes National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Backpacking with kids: Some trails offer manageable backpacking opportunities for families. "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," shares John S. about his family experience at Old Logger's Path.
Weekday visits recommended: For quieter camping experiences with children, plan for non-peak times. "Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night," observes one regular visitor.
Pack extra water: Many free camping areas near Troy lack reliable water sources. "No shower but decent bathrooms. I spent a night at Watkins Glen the only advantage was the shower. But you can wash up well here," mentions Adam P., suggesting families bring supplies for basic hygiene.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "There are only a few sites on the road but they have picnic tables, fire rings and lots of space! They are also free! We just pulled up and parked in an empty spot," explains Annie J. about her camping experience with a smaller rig.
Solar considerations: RVers relying on solar should select sites strategically. "I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging," mentions Andrew S., who found that approximately half the sites at Sugar Hill Recreation Area receive adequate sun exposure for solar panels.
Designated dispersed sites: Some areas offer drive-up access to primitive sites. "Arrived early evening and found a clear, level designated site right off Tower Hill Rd," reports Ann M., noting that these sites provide better access for vehicles than true backcountry locations.
