Loyalsock State Forest

5 reviews

6735 Route 220, Dushore, Pennsylvania, 18614, United States

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

1,969 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Loyalsock State Forest District Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,969 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Loyalsock State Forest District Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Loyalsock State Forest

$0.00 - $7.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite permits are required. Primitive sites are free but require a permit. Permit violation could lead to revocation.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hikingwatersites

"User reviews highlight the beauty and primitive nature of the campsites, with some sites being located next to streams, offering a serene environment. However, the lack of bathroom facilities is a recurring mention."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

6735 Route 220, Dushore, Pennsylvania, 18614, United States

Loyalsock State Forest

6735 Route 220, Dushore, Pennsylvania, 18614, United States

Driving directionsFrom I-180, take Exit 15 and continue on US-220N for 30 miles to the District Office on the left.

Primarily accessible via paved roads. No seasonal closures mentioned, but terrain involves scenic driving.

Nearby places

Dushore (0 miles, immediate proximity), Worlds End State Park (approx. 20 miles), Ricketts Glen State Park (approx. 30 miles).

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be found in Dushore, the nearest populated area, for groceries, fuel, camping essentials, and more.

Best Time to Camp at Loyalsock State Forest

Experience the gentle rhythm of Pennsylvania's seasons in this mountain paradise. Summer brings perfect camping weather with mild days ideal for hiking and cool nights made for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in a symphony of gold and crimson. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with occasional snowfall creating magical scenes along frozen streams and frost-covered trails. Spring's moderate rainfall awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and fills the waterfalls to their most spectacular flows.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summers described as mild and ideal for hiking and camping; cool nights for campfires.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall foliage likely strong in northern hardwoods and scenic vistas (explicit seasonal detail limited).

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Cascading streams and waterfalls imply strong spring appeal though specifics are limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with snowmobiling and cross-country skiing noted, but winter comfort varies.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season details are not explicitly defined in provided materials.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campsites are open year-round with some seasonal fire restrictions.
Current Alerts: Seasonal fire restrictions prohibit campfires from March 1st to May 25th without forester approval.

About Loyalsock State Forest

Deep in Pennsylvania's legendary Endless Mountains, Loyalsock State Forest unfolds across 114,522 acres of pristine wilderness spanning Sullivan, Bradford, and Lycoming Counties. This vast natural sanctuary beckons adventurers with its network of primitive campsites tucked beneath ancient canopies, dramatic vistas that stretch to the horizon, and hidden waterfalls that thunder through rocky gorges. With over 200 miles of trails threading through this untamed landscape, every path promises discovery—from gentle woodland walks to challenging backcountry routes that test even seasoned hikers.

Loyalsock State Forest offers a primarily primitive camping experience, with designated dispersed roadside sites and four designated camping areas. These campsites are remote and minimally improved.

Historical SignificanceThe forest takes its name from Loyalsock Creek, whose waters have shaped both the land and its story for centuries. These ancient woods once echoed with the sounds of massive timber operations that helped build a young America, their legacy still visible in old logging roads now reclaimed as peaceful trails. More recently, the discovery of natural gas deposits has added another chapter to the region's resource heritage, though today the forest stands as a testament to conservation and the enduring power of wild places.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Pennsylvania's seasons in this mountain paradise. Summer brings perfect camping weather with mild days ideal for hiking and cool nights made for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in a symphony of gold and crimson. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with occasional snowfall creating magical scenes along frozen streams and frost-covered trails. Spring's moderate rainfall awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and fills the waterfalls to their most spectacular flows.

ElevationThe undulating terrain of the Endless Mountains creates a landscape of constantly changing perspectives, where trails climb from sheltered valleys to windswept ridges, offering hikers an ever-shifting tapestry of forest views and distant peaks.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a world where northern hardwood forests create cathedral-like groves of maple, birch, and beech. Crystal-clear streams cascade over moss-covered rocks, tumbling into spectacular waterfalls that have carved deep pools perfect for quiet contemplation. Hidden bogs harbor rare plant communities and provide glimpses into Pennsylvania's glacial past. Keep watch for native brook trout flashing in pristine waters, and exercise caution in rocky areas where black rattlesnakes occasionally sun themselves—a reminder that this is truly wild country.

Geological RegionShaped by ancient glaciers, this remarkable landscape straddles the Glaciated High Plateau and Deep Valleys ecoregions—a dramatic meeting of geological forces that created today's stunning topography. The region's northern hardwood forests thrive in this unique environment, while pristine headwater streams begin their journey here, tumbling through waterfalls and nurturing native brook trout populations. Natural gas deposits speak to the area's complex geological history, while the sparse human population ensures that nature remains the dominant force across these rugged highlands.

Best Campsites

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Check-in

Check-in times not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Check-out times not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Limit of 7 continuous days
camping cannot be resumed until 48 hours have passed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Minimum one person 18 years of age. Maximum not specified.

Groups

Group camping is not mentioned in the materials.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are dispersed and primitive, often roadside, with minimal facilities.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through the Loyalsock State Forest District Office.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve options for primitive roadside campsites. Permits are mandatory.

Cancellation PolicyPermit becomes null and void if canceled or transferred prior to arrival.

AccessibilityAccessibility options are not described in the provided materials.

Site SizeSites are primitive and dispersed. No specific size details are available.

PrivacySites are remote and likely offer significant privacy due to their dispersed nature.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesCherry Ridge Trail offers a serene experience near water. Sites next to the stream are highly recommended.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Loyalsock State Forest provides a wide range of recreational activities amidst its 114,522 acres of scenic forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and hunting, as well as winter activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular. The forest is known for its ecological and geological features, including waterfalls, high gradient streams, and wild areas.

HikingHiking is a major attraction, with over 200 miles of trails, including the famous Loyalsock Trail and the Old Loggers Path. These trails offer diverse experiences ranging from challenging backcountry routes to more accessible paths. User reviews highlight the Cherry Ridge Trail and vistas on the Old Loggers Path.

FishingFishing is a premier activity, with pristine streams supporting thriving brook trout populations.

BoatingCanoeing and kayaking are popular on the streams within the forest, although no specific facilities or details are mentioned.

Wildlife viewingThe forest offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with its diverse habitats supporting many species. User reviews note encounters with species like black rattlesnakes.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife such as black rattlesnakes and seasonal fire risks. Snow and rain can affect road conditions seasonally.

Active AlertsSeasonal fire restrictions prohibit campfires from March 1st to May 25th without forester approval.

Fire PolicyFire restrictions apply seasonally, including prohibition during high fire danger periods. Deadwood may be gathered for fires.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Noise should not disturb other campers at any time; excessive generator noise prohibited.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include locations in Dushore for basic medical and law enforcement concerns.

Trash & RecyclingCampers are expected to remove their own garbage and dispose of it properly. Littering is prohibited.

Water FeaturesClose to Loyalsock Creek and other cascading streams. Worlds End State Park and Rose Valley Lake are nearby.

Camp HostNo host details provided.

Weather at Loyalsock State Forest

Reviews

0.0

5 reviews

Limited Reviews

Loyalsock State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the beauty and primitive nature of the campsites, with some sites being located next to streams, offering a serene environment. However, the lack of bathroom facilities is a recurring mention.

Review Summaries

Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Users love the forest's serene environment, scenic hiking trails, and the opportunity to camp next to streams. One user stated, "Lovely primitive campsites, some next to the stream so you can fall...

Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of bathroom facilities is noted by users as a drawback. No additional significant complaints are mentioned.

Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions and the absence of bathroom facilities. Carrying self-contained toilets or preparing for responsible waste disposal is recommended.

Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No direct reviews tied to specific seasons were provided, but snowmobiling and cross-country skiing suggest winter appeal, while hiking and fishing are likely popular in warmer months.

Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Lovely primitive campsites, some next to the stream so you can fall asleep to the sound of water."

Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

A user noted the Cherry Ridge Trail and mentioned a sighting of a black rattlesnake. The user expressed interest in the vistas on Old Loggers Path, although they did not visit.

Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews address accessibility features or experiences.

Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and no complaints or specific highlights related to pets were noted in user reviews.

Based on 5 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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