Old Logger's Path offers primitive camping without any fees throughout its trail system in the hills northwest of Troy, Pennsylvania. The path includes established sites along the 27-mile loop trail through Loyalsock State Forest. During summer months, water sources can be limited as some streams dry up. Several additional camping options with varying amenities exist within a 30-mile radius of Troy.
What to do
Hike the gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, experience dramatic rock formations and waterfalls about an hour from Troy. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L., who mentions the park's numerous waterfalls create unforgettable hiking opportunities.
Take family photos at waterfalls: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls along its trail system. One visitor explains, "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked."
Fishing without a license: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground permits catch-and-release fishing without requiring a Pennsylvania fishing license. According to Amy R., "You can rent non electric boats and they offer catch & release fishing without a PA license in the lake. My son caught 2 sunfish."
What campers like
Private tent sites in wooded areas: Hills Creek State Park provides secluded spots for tent campers seeking separation from RVs. Barbara S. notes, "We weren't impressed with the camping area. There was very little shade in most campsites so we were glad we had a cabin." This highlights the importance of selecting shaded sites during summer months.
Lake views from campsites: Ives Run offers premium waterfront camping on Tioga Lake. Katherine T. recommends choosing specific locations: "The Pine loop is a pleasant escape for tent campers hoping for a good view of the lake. Note that the access gravel access road to this loop is about a mile to the 'comfort station' with flush toilets and showers."
Clean, modern facilities: Worlds End State Park Campground maintains high standards for bathroom facilities. Lee D. reports, "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."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds near Troy have limited or no cellular connectivity. At Worlds End State Park, TheKajrak notes, "There is very very little cell service and only wifi if you pay for it. It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society."
Reservation timing requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for holiday weekends and summer months. James P. advises about Ives Run: "The only drawback is that it fills up quickly and you need to reserve many months ahead of time especially for holidays."
Water quality concerns: Seasonal water testing may affect campground facilities. One visitor to Ricketts Glen reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Interactive nature programs: Many state parks offer educational activities for children. At Newtown Battlefield State Park Campground, rangers conduct regular nature walks. According to מלאכי א., "Trails are well signed at intersections, and they are well worn, but mostly without blazes."
Kid-friendly water features: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds provides multiple water recreation options for families. B C. reports, "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."
Splash pads for young children: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground offers dedicated water play areas. Katye M. shares, "I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun. The restrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Campgrounds with hookups often have less shade than primitive sites. Cheryl W. advises about Pine Cradle Lake, "Larger pull-through sites don't get a lot of shade, but there are back-in sites for shorter campers in wooded sites and shaded lake front."
Water and electric hookup locations: At Ives Run, campers should prepare for potentially inconvenient utility connections. According to Kayla N., "Some sites you will need 2 hoses for your water because the hook ups are far from the sites and some of them will have the hook up facing the front of your camper."
Road conditions within campgrounds: Larger RVs may face challenges navigating some campground roads. Laura L. cautions about Watkins Glen: "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Traveler
