Elk State Forest

About

Elk State Forest spans approximately 217,000 acres across Elk, Cameron, Potter, and McKean counties in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. Named for the elk herds that historically roamed and continue to thrive here, the forest offers dark night skies and immersive wilderness camping experiences. The Hicks Run Camping Area, located about 2.2 miles northwest of Route 555, features 15 sites including 4 tent-only and 11 motorized sites. Equestrian camping is available at Dark Hollow (10 sites) and Gaswell (5 sites), both equipped with hitching posts and manure pits. Additionally, 11 dispersed roadside campsites provide remote, singular camping spots along forest roads suitable for tents, small RVs, or trailers. Primitive backpack camping is permitted throughout most of the forest without a permit for single-night stays, provided campers stay at least 200 feet from roads, 25 feet from trails, and 100 feet from streams. All designated campsites require reservations through Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests. The forest is a working landscape balancing recreation with timber production and conservation.

Directions

The Elk State Forest District Office is located at 258 Sizerville Road in Emporium, PA 15834. The Hicks Run Camping Area is approximately 2.2 miles northwest of Route 555.