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Best Dispersed Camping near Westline, PA

33 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Allegheny National Forest near Westline, Pennsylvania. Multiple free primitive campsites are available along forest roads and near hiking trails, with Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite being a popular location. Other options include FR437 dispersed campsite, Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, and areas near Red Mill Pond. These sites are primarily located on U.S. Forest Service land and offer basic locations for tent and RV camping without amenities or designated facilities.

Most forest access roads in the area require careful navigation, especially during or after rainfall when muddy conditions are common. Roads like SF-160 can accommodate larger vehicles including 25-foot travel trailers, though some areas are better suited for smaller vehicles or tent camping. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at these sites, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Fire rings are established at many locations, but campers should always check current fire regulations as restrictions may apply seasonally.

The surrounding forest provides opportunities for hiking, with trails like Hector Falls (approximately a 2-mile hike) being accessible from some camping areas. Wildlife sightings are possible, including black bears that inhabit caves in the region. Cell service is spotty but available in patches throughout the forest. "Big open spots with established fire rings" are common features, according to one camper review. Another visitor noted, "If you don't mind roughing it a bit, it's really quite nice," while warning to "bring tick/bug spray" as insects can be prevalent. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with a camper reporting "nights in the low teens" and cautioning about icy trails.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Westline, Pennsylvania (12)

    1. Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Ludlow, PA
    11 miles

    "Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me."

    "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."

    2. Red Mill Pond

    4 Reviews
    Ridgway, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 927-6628

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

    "Neutral: No amenities Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes"

    3. Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    30 miles

    "I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy."

    "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."

    4. FR437 dispersed campsite

    1 Review
    Irvine, PA
    23 miles

    5. Clarion River Campground

    2 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    31 miles

    "We had direct River access! Quite road-We were able to walk. There were some people kayaking in the river. Dispersed spot-no cell service."

    6. Salmon Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Marienville, PA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 723-5150

    "Theres a few dispersed spots back here. Its pretty nice area. The road is out tho so dont take a big rig"

    7. Camp Seneca

    1 Review
    Great Valley, NY
    31 miles

    "We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains."

    8. Millstone Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    33 miles

    "This was a great spot for my first dispersed camping experience. Hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road. Rock fire ring. Vault toilets were open. Sites are well spaced."

    "Size od camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road

    We came in on a Saturday and found one of the road side sites open."

    9. Windfall Ponds

    Be the first to review!
    Salamanca, NY
    25 miles

    10. Boyce State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Franklinville, NY
    41 miles
    Website
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Westline, PA

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Westline, PA

33 Reviews of 12 Westline 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.

  • 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.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2020

    Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    Good spot

    I believe there are several dispersed spots along this road. This one was close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy.

Guide to Westline

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Westline, Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Top Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite is conveniently located near excellent hiking and biking opportunities, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.
  • Just a short distance away, the Red Mill Pond offers access to scenic trails, perfect for a peaceful day hike or a leisurely stroll.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Salmon Creek Dispersed area features several hiking spots that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Wildlife Encounters for Nature Enthusiasts

  • At the FR437 dispersed campsite, campers may spot local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • The Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite is known for its proximity to natural habitats, making it a prime location for observing wildlife in their natural environment.
  • Campers at the Millstone Creek Campground can enjoy the sounds of nature and possibly catch a glimpse of the area's diverse fauna while relaxing by the river.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Westline

  • The Windfall Ponds area provides stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those looking to soak in the beauty of the outdoors.
  • Nestled in the Allegheny National Forest, the Clarion River Campground offers picturesque river views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
  • The Camp Seneca location features a serene creek and dense tree canopy, providing a peaceful backdrop for a relaxing camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed in Allegheny National Forest near Westline?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in Allegheny National Forest near Westline. The forest offers several established dispersed camping areas, including Red Mill Pond and Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Dispersed camping in Allegheny National Forest typically follows standard Forest Service regulations, allowing stays up to 14 consecutive days. While these areas provide basic fire rings, they generally lack amenities like water or restrooms, so campers should come fully prepared for self-sufficient camping.

Where is Westline dispersed camping located in Pennsylvania?

Westline dispersed camping is located in northwestern Pennsylvania within the Allegheny National Forest. The area is situated near the small community of Westline in McKean County, close to the New York state border. Access points include several forest roads branching from the main roads near Westline. Clarion River Campground and Millstone Creek Campground are in the general region, offering additional dispersed options. The Westline area provides a secluded forest experience with sites tucked away along various logging and forest service roads.

What amenities are available at Westline dispersed camping sites?

Westline dispersed camping sites offer minimal amenities, focusing on primitive camping experiences. At Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, you'll find established fire rings and cleared camping areas suitable for tents or smaller vehicles. Most sites have basic fire circles, though some may be in various states of repair. The FR437 dispersed campsite area follows this pattern with no facilities, water sources, or trash service. Campers need to bring all necessities including water, food, and waste disposal equipment. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply, and you should be prepared for complete self-sufficiency with no toilets, picnic tables, or other conveniences available.

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