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Best Dispersed Camping near Turtlepoint, PA

27 Reviews

Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite offers free primitive camping in the Allegheny National Forest near Turtlepoint, Pennsylvania. Several pulloff sites with established fire rings accommodate both tents and RVs along the main forest road, with additional secluded spots accessible via logging roads that permit foot travel only. The area features hiking trails to Hector Falls, approximately one mile from the main camping areas.

Road conditions can be challenging, especially after rainfall. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "The road is behind the town of Ludlow - take the 'Scenic Dr' and it turns into the forestry road. Road is in good condition and most any car would have no problem driving down it." Another camping option includes Red Mill Pond, which provides basic dispersed sites with fire circles but limited maintenance. Palmer's Pond State Forest, though slightly farther in New York state, offers grassy terrain near water. Wildlife is abundant throughout the region, with bears present in the area - proper food storage is essential at all sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Turtlepoint, Pennsylvania (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Turtlepoint, PA

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Turtlepoint, PA

27 Reviews of 12 Turtlepoint Campgrounds

  • Mieszko M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Red Mill Pond

    Good place for one night

    Been there with camper van No facilities, only some fireplaces. Good for a short stay, quiet

  • Matt J.
    Aug. 20, 2021

    Red Mill Pond

    Dispersed, remote...and ill-kept

    Missed the words "dispersed" and "no facilities" on the USFS website... Fire circles are falling apart, there's effectively no signage, and I had the bad luck to show up after a substantial rainstorm rolled through, and both ground and grass were soaked. I bailed on this camp. If your liking for EXTREMELY rustic car camping, there's a mood for it, but it doesn't seem to be worth backpacking in, and I wouldn't recommend car camping under most circumstances. The fishing looks pretty good, but i don't fish.

  • Aliza N.
    Jun. 26, 2022

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Free dispersed camping in the Allegheny

    We camp in a lot of primitive dispersed camping, but finding a spot like this in the east is challenging! So for that…YAY, we love it. But, it’s not perfect. The road is behind the town of Ludlow (or Sheffield depending on which direction you are coming from). From Ludlow take the “Scenic Dr” and it turns into the forestry road. Lots of pull offs off this main road and you could prob find some more private ones if you explored the smaller dirt roads off the main forestry road. No services here obvi since it’s primitive camping. Road is in good condition and most any car would have no problem driving down it.

  • Zack B.
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Boyce State Forest

    Wet n wild

    Trail was more of a stream than a trail. You’ll spend more time beside the trail then actually on it. The campsite was a shelter off the side of the trail. It came with some firewood and cardboard to burn as well as some emergency water. Campsite was clean and came with an “air conditioned loo”. Lots of room for tents, however, most sites are not flat. Would recommend to come in dryer season or to bring rubber boots.

  • Ian B.
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Nice, peaceful and free

    If you don’t mind roughing it a bit, it’s really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2019

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Favorite place to camp

    No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Red Mill Pond

    Plenty of space for a van

    Pro: There was a pond, campfire rings, and a big spot to maneuver a van. Neutral: No amenities Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes

  • Ian H.
    May. 23, 2022

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    A slice of Allegheny Heaven

    This spot is a boondocker’s delight! Big open spots with established fire rings. Quiet except for the distant rumble of a train passing the town down in the valley. The road is definitely hidden behind the town of Ludlow but we were able to find it at 2am after a long drive from cape cod.

  • Bob J.
    Sep. 1, 2021

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Comes as advertised! Really nice spot!

    The spot I stayed is right on the marker.  There are multiple spots along the main forest road. Some you can drive your car in and tuck it back. Other spots you cant take your car at all.   There are tons of logging roads that split off the main forest road. They mostly have gates that say "Logging road, no public motor vehicles allowed" but they also say "Foot travel is welcome" I went down a few of these roads and almost always found a few spots that would be great places to set up camp if you are willing to walk a little bit from your car. There is a really cool place called Hector Falls. The trailhead is about a mile down the road from this spot. It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop. Other than that this spot is not a bad spot at all. Fire wood can be found all around.

Guide to Turtlepoint

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Turtlepoint, Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and explore. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure away from the crowds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Turtlepoint, Pennsylvania

  • Look for spots that allow campfires, such as Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, where you can enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
  • Bring your own firewood, as many locations, including Red Mill Pond, do not provide this amenity.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience; sites like Boyce State Forest offer minimal facilities, so pack accordingly.

Hiking and exploring while free camping near Turtlepoint

Dispersed campers should check out Camp Seneca

  • Camp Seneca is known for its quiet and secluded atmosphere, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • This spot features designated sites with fire rings and picnic tables, enhancing your camping experience.
  • The area is well-maintained, and visitors have noted the cleanliness of the facilities, including a port-a-potty on site.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Turtlepoint, PA is Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite with a 4-star rating from 11 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Turtlepoint, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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