Susquehannock State Forest

Open — Open year-round for camping. Roadside campsites require advance reservations through the Pennsylvania State Parks system. State forest roads are not plowed in winter, so motorized camping access is not guaranteed during winter months. Campfires are prohibited March 1 through May 25 unless authorized by the forest office.

About

Susquehannock State Forest encompasses 265,000 acres of mountainous, forested terrain in northcentral Pennsylvania, primarily in Potter County with portions in McKean and Clinton counties. The forest offers primitive camping experiences with designated roadside campsites and unrestricted backcountry camping opportunities. Roadside campsites are singular, remote sites located along dirt and gravel forest roads, accommodating tents, small RVs, and trailers, though there are no electric hookups, dump stations, or developed facilities. The forest also features equestrian campsites at Dyer and Horsey Hilton Camping Areas with hitching posts, picnic tables, and fire rings. Backpack camping is permitted throughout most of the forest without a permit for one-night stays, following Leave No Trace principles and specific setback requirements from roads, trails, and water sources. The 85-mile Susquehannock Trail System provides excellent backpacking opportunities through the heavily forested hills and valleys. Surrounding Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania's first Dark Sky Park, the forest offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. The region is known for its productive black cherry stands, scenic streams, expansive vistas, and abundant wildlife including bear, deer, turkey, and grouse.

Directions

From Coudersport, PA, take US-6 east for approximately 8 miles to the Susquehannock State Forest Resource Management Center.

Nearby Campgrounds