Primitive tent camping surrounds Williamsport, Pennsylvania, extending beyond established state park facilities into multiple state forests within a 30-mile radius. The area sits within the Appalachian Mountain range at elevations ranging from 520 to 2,100 feet, creating varied microclimates for campers. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity near waterways and cooler conditions at elevated sites.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Campers at Ravensburg State Park Campground can access the 1000 Step Trail directly from the campground. "The 1000 step trail is fun!" notes Andrew G., who found the park offers "a decent amount" despite its compact size.
Creek exploration: Set up creek-side camping at multiple locations for easy water access. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," explains Laura at Ravensburg, who enjoys setting up hammocks "right by the creek."
Wildlife observation: The surrounding forests host diverse wildlife year-round. The secluded nature of Fourth Gap Road Sites in Tiadaghton State Forest provides opportunities for spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species in natural settings away from more developed campgrounds.
What campers like
Natural privacy buffers: Many tent sites feature strategic vegetation placement. "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," reports Traci F. about Ravensburg State Park, noting that "sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Hammocking opportunities: Multiple campsites accommodate hammock camping. "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking," explains Laura at Ravensburg, who particularly enjoys sites near water features.
Low-traffic camping: Most primitive sites in Tiadaghton Forest operate below capacity except during peak weekends. "Park was very quiet in terms of sites being used. Only one other site was occupied," shares Sarah C. about her Ravensburg experience, describing it as "a place to stop overnight" that "worked out really well."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS systems may lead to incorrect access points. "Use lat and long coordinates for directions or you will be in the wrong spot," advises Becky at Ravensburg. Sarah C. confirms: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road."
Noise considerations: Road traffic affects some sites despite forest settings. "The campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally," notes Andrew G. about Ravensburg. KK suggests to "try to get a spot further away from the road if possible" since "you hear car (and horse & buggy!) noise."
Water noise levels: Creekside camping brings natural sound considerations. "The nature noise here is loud. If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids," explains Sarah C., noting rainfall may increase volume levels.
Tips for camping with families
Self-registration process: Most sites operate without staffed check-in stations. KK describes the process at Eastville Roadside Campsites as having an "easy self-registration process," making it convenient for families arriving at various times.
Group camping layout: Several campgrounds accommodate adjacent site booking. Laura notes that Ravensburg "is good for large groups (you can get sites in a row)," allowing families to create connected camping arrangements.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between locations. At Ravensburg, Traci F. reports that "the bathrooms are clean and we've never run into any issues," while KK describes them as "pretty clean" but basic.
Tips from RVers
Access road gradients: Several campgrounds require navigating steep descents. "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times," cautions Sarah C. about Bonnell Flats Campground access roads.
Limited hookup availability: Most primitive sites lack RV infrastructure. Tent sites at Ravensburg feature raised platforms unsuitable for larger RVs, with Becky noting they "have nice raised tent pads" specifically designed for tent camping, not RV use.
Weather-influenced road conditions: Access becomes challenging after precipitation. "It had been raining quite heavily all day," notes Sarah C., which affected both road conditions and overall campground experience, suggesting RVers should check recent weather patterns before attempting forest road access.
