Tent camping near Warren, Pennsylvania centers on the Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania's only national forest spanning 513,000 acres. The region features mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet and receives approximately 42 inches of precipitation annually. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible from May through October, with late summer and early fall offering drier ground conditions for tent campers.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Hector Falls sits approximately two miles from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, offering a scenic natural attraction. "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," notes Bob J.
Winter camping adventures: For cold-weather enthusiasts, winter camping provides a different experience in the Warren region. "It was freezing, quite literally, with nights in the low teens. The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone," reports Ian B. about his winter experience at Forestry Road.
Island camping: For a unique tent camping experience near Warren, Private Island w/ Paddle Moor Co. offers boat-in camping on an island. "The island has cleared trails to get to the campsite which seem to be maintained very well and on a regular basis... When it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies. To be honest that was like a show in itself," shares Jessica Z.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Many tent campers value the remote feeling of dispersed sites around Warren. "This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area... the only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum," notes Todd H. about Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Shelter options: Beyond standard tent camping, the region offers Adirondack shelters. "The Adirondack shelters are perfectly positioned to be private from one another, each looks out over the forest. They are a raised timber platform with a slanted roof and stone chimney with fireplace," explains Britt B. about the facilities at Wolfkiel Run Shelters.
Year-round accessibility: While summer remains most popular, campers appreciate winter access. "The shelters are very peaceful in the winter and would highly recommend them if you are keen for some 'winter camping' but not keen to sleep in a tent or be completely exposed," notes Britt B. about Wolfkiel Run Shelters in colder months.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears inhabit the Warren tent camping area, requiring proper food storage. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area. I was meditating in my car one evening and a bear stood up and pushed against my window. Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," warns Mystic S. from their stay at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Road and terrain conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require careful navigation, especially after rain. "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy," reports Anne W. about Loleta Road.
Seasonal growth: Summer vegetation can affect site usability. "Way too grown in as of August. Didn't end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies. Secluded spot though," notes David B. about conditions at Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Tick prevention: Families camping near Warren should prepare for ticks, especially with children. "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," advises Ian B.
Explore camping facilities: For families wanting more amenities than dispersed camping, Big Oak Hill offers an alternative within driving distance. "It is a newly created campsite that is located on top of a hill with a big oak tree. The campsite is accessible by drive-in, but you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle if there has been rain," explains Thomas B.
Pack for mud: When camping with children in the Warren area, prepare for muddy conditions. "We stayed here in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy," notes Anne W. from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Road evaluation: For RVers considering dispersed camping near Warren, assess roads carefully. "I have a 25 foot travel trailer. I found numerous spots on SF-160. It rains a lot so keep your slip-ons near the door. Great hiking/biking. The spot next to the hiking trail has WiFi 70% of the time," shares Mark M. from his experience at Forestry Road.
Establish directions: Several RVers note navigation challenges to dispersed sites. "To get here, take Hwy 6 just east of Warren. Turn left on Kinzua road. Go about 8 miles. Stop at the Kinzua dam about 5 miles in. Turn right. Go about a mile and a half, turn right towards Jakes Rocks," explains Mark M., providing specific directions to Forestry Road sites.
Campsite selection: Finding level, accessible spots requires preparation. "I found several suitable spots on SF-160. Since it rains frequently here, keep your slip-on shoes handy near the door. This area offers great hiking and biking opportunities. The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time," notes Eliezera M. about Forestry Road camping with an RV.
