Loyalsock State Forest

Open — Open year-round with reservations available up to 11 months in advance. Even-numbered roadside campsites are open January through June, and odd-numbered sites are open July through December. Bridle Trail and Masten sites are open year-round. Winter road access is not guaranteed as forest roads are not plowed.

About

Loyalsock State Forest encompasses the northern tier's Endless Mountains region in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, offering a true backcountry camping experience. The forest provides multiple camping options including designated roadside campsites along dirt and gravel forest roads, roadside hike-in sites for more solitude, and concentrated camping at the Masten Civilian Conservation Corps Camping Area with basic latrines. Equestrian camping is available at Bridle Trailhead with hitching posts, picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Primitive backpack camping is permitted throughout most of the forest without a permit for single-night stays, with popular routes along the Loyalsock Trail and Old Loggers Path. River island campsites are also available along the North Branch of the Susquehanna River Water Trail. All designated campsites operate on a rotating six-month schedule: even-numbered sites are open January through June, and odd-numbered sites are open July through December, except for Bridle Trail and Masten sites which remain open year-round. The forest requires visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles. No developed facilities or modern conveniences exist at most campsites, and all trash must be packed out. Campfires are prohibited during spring fire season from March 1 through May 25 unless authorized, and when fire danger is high. Winter access to motorized sites is not guaranteed as forest roads are not plowed.

Directions

From PA87 near Hillsgrove, take Mill Creek Road about 3.9 miles and make a sharp right onto Camel Road. Follow Camel Road for about 4.9 miles to the campsite.

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