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Best Dispersed Camping near Union Dale, PA

3 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist within 50 miles of Union Dale, Pennsylvania, with Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania and Hickok Brook and Beals Pond State Forest in New York being the closest options. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers a basic gravel parking lot with drive-in access and requires a permit. Campers note it provides "plenty of shade" and serves as a convenient base for hiking the extensive trail system. A visitor commented, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

Hickok Brook in New York features primitive lakeside camping spots accessed via a rough road with "huge potholes" that requires high-clearance vehicles. This area offers picnic tables but has limited camping space with only three designated spots. A camper wrote, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county." Similarly, Beals Pond State Forest allows both tent and RV camping with free, pet-friendly sites, though winter access is limited as "the road is not maintained in the winter" and cell reception is unavailable. These off-grid campsites typically provide minimal to no amenities, so campers should arrive fully self-sufficient.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Union Dale, Pennsylvania (4)

    1. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    35 miles

    "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."

    "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."

    2. Beals Pond State Forest

    1 Review
    Trout Creek, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 357-2161

    3. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    44 miles

    "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

    "Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

    4. Russell Brook Road

    Be the first to review!
    Roscoe, NY
    34 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Union Dale, PA

4 Photos of 4 Union Dale Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Union Dale, PA

3 Reviews of 4 Union Dale Campgrounds

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 27, 2024

    Beals Pond State Forest

    Not easily accessible in winter

    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.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

Guide to Union Dale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Union Dale, Pennsylvania, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Union Dale, Pennsylvania

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Rest Area I-84, do not require a permit, making it easy for spontaneous trips.
  • Ensure you bring all necessary supplies, as locations such as Hickok Brook are hike-in only, meaning you’ll need to carry everything with you.
  • Keep an eye out for clean facilities; for instance, the bathrooms at Rest Area I-84 are well-maintained, providing a comfortable experience.

Scenic activities while free camping near Union Dale

  • Enjoy peaceful lakeside views at Hickok Brook, where you can set up a tent and soak in the natural beauty.
  • Explore the hiking trails around Thunder Swamp Trailhead, which offers a chance to connect with nature while enjoying a good workout.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the serene environment at Beals Pond State Forest, perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Dispersed campers should check out Russell Brook Road

  • Russell Brook Road is accessible by vehicle, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to drive in.
  • This area is known for its peaceful surroundings, ideal for those looking to unwind and escape the noise of everyday life.
  • Be prepared for a rugged experience, as some spots may require a bit of maneuvering to find the perfect place to set up camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Union Dale, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Union Dale, PA is Hickok Brook with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Union Dale, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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