Moshannon State Forest

Open — Open year-round with reservations available up to 11 months in advance. State forest roads are not plowed in winter, so motorized roadside camping access is not guaranteed during winter months. Campfires are restricted March 1 through May 25 unless authorized by the forest office.

About

Moshannon State Forest in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, provides a true backcountry camping experience with 19 designated motorized roadside campsites scattered along remote dirt and gravel forest roads. These singular, remote sites are pull-offs or have short driveways and accommodate tents, small RVs, or trailers depending on layout. Ten individual sites are located along Medix Grade Road, with additional sites in the Shaggers Inn Camping Area and the equestrian-friendly Yellow Snake Camping Area. Reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance, with stays limited to seven nights. For backpackers, primitive camping is permitted throughout most of the forest without a permit for single-night stays, provided campers stay at least 200 feet from forest roads, 25 feet from trails, and 100 feet from water sources. The Quehanna Trail and Allegheny Front Trail offer excellent multi-day backpacking opportunities. The forest is managed for low-density, dispersed recreation with no facilities, electric hookups, dump stations, or trash disposal. Dark night skies and solitude define the Moshannon experience, making it ideal for experienced campers seeking remote wilderness camping.

Directions

From I-80, take Exit 111 and merge onto PA-153 N. In 1.0 mile, turn right onto Old Route 153 (State Park Road) to the Moshannon State Forest district office.

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