Dispersed camping near Weatherly, Pennsylvania offers primitive backcountry options for self-sufficient hikers along the Appalachian Mountains. This region sits along the Blue Mountain ridge with elevations around 1,500 feet and typically cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures regularly drop below freezing with snowfall common from November through March.
What to do
Hiking Worthington State Forest: Access the Appalachian Trail from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 to explore extensive trail networks. "We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT," notes camper Katharine T., who found the site well-maintained with convenient bear boxes for food storage.
Explore overlooks: The Blue Mountain ridge offers significant elevation changes and viewpoints. According to Dani T., the area around Bake Oven Knob includes two large parking lots where overnight vehicle camping is permitted. This location serves both as "part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area for the Bake Oven Knob, which is a high point on the Blue Mountain ridge."
Visit Sunfish Pond: From Backpacker Campsite 2, make a day trip to this glacial lake. "No water at the campsite - nearest is Sunfish Pond, easy hike about a 1-mile round trip," explains Katharine T. Note that camping is not allowed at the pond itself, with signs clearly marking prohibited areas.
What campers like
Balance of community and solitude: At Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, campers appreciate the layout. Katharine T. notes, "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too." This arrangement allows visitors to choose their preferred camping experience while still having access to shared resources.
Shaded parking areas: For those vehicle camping at Thunder Swamp Trailhead, the environment provides natural cooling. Benjamin H. describes it as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," making it suitable for overnight stays in warmer months.
Wildlife protection infrastructure: Facilities for securing food against wildlife are available at select sites. Katharine T. mentions that Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is "well maintained with bear boxes provided," which eliminates the need to hang food or bring bear canisters.
What you should know
Water availability: Most primitive camping areas near Weatherly lack water sources. Renee Z. advises about Designated Backpacker Campsite 2: "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby... Stock up on water at the Dunnfield Creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond."
Site locations can be unmarked: Navigation skills are necessary when locating some backcountry sites. Renee Z. points out that "The site itself is unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail so it's not hard to find."
Hammock camping options: Several sites offer better options for hammock than tent camping. "The site is a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" notes Renee Z. Katharine T. confirms, "Good trees for hammocking" at the Designated Backpacker site.
Permit requirements: Some areas require advance permission. Thunder Swamp Trailhead requires obtaining a permit before overnight stays, while other locations have variable rules regarding registration.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible viewpoints: When camping with children, plan short hikes to interesting features. Jason R. from Thunder Swamp Trailhead recommends: "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," which provides a manageable destination with ecological interest.
Plan for uneven terrain: Many campsites have natural slopes that can complicate tent setup. Renee Z. describes one site as "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," suggesting families should bring appropriate gear for uneven ground.
Prepare for no facilities: With children, bring portable toilets and extra water. No restroom facilities exist at these primitive sites, and the lack of water sources means carrying all drinking water for the duration of your stay.
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking availability: Small to medium-sized vehicles can use certain trailhead lots. Dani T. reports, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems" at Bake Oven Knob, which provides two large lots suitable for overnight vehicle camping.
Accessibility considerations: Access roads to trailheads vary in quality. The Thunder Swamp area has a "gravel parking lot" according to Benjamin H., suggesting smaller RVs or campervans would be more appropriate than large rigs.
Security considerations: Vehicle campers report minimal disturbances at designated parking areas. Jason R. describes his experience at Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "Chill. Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble."
