How much does camping cost at Loyalsock State Forest?

Camping fees at Loyalsock State Forest range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Loyalsock State Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

Loyalsock State Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Loyalsock State Forest before I book?

Yes! Loyalsock State Forest has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Loyalsock State Forest?

Loyalsock State Forest is open Peak season details are not explicitly defined in provided materials.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Loyalsock State Forest?

Loyalsock State Forest does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Loyalsock State Forest have?

Loyalsock State Forest has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Loyalsock State Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at Loyalsock State Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Loyalsock State Forest?

Loyalsock State Forest offers: Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Loyalsock State Forest?

Popular activities at Loyalsock State Forest include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Loyalsock State Forest

Q: Can I have a campfire at Loyalsock State Forest?

Fire policies at Loyalsock State Forest: Fire restrictions apply seasonally, including prohibition during high fire danger periods. Deadwood may be gathered for fires.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

5 reviews

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

Featured in:Hiking Camping Pennsylvania

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,969 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Loyalsock State Forest District Office Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,969 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Loyalsock State Forest District Office 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.

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

5709464049

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Loyalsock State Forest

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

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

Loyalsock State Forest

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

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.

Weather at Loyalsock State Forest

Current alert: Seasonal fire restrictions prohibit campfires from March 1st to May 25th without forester approval.

Best Time to Camp at Loyalsock State Forest

Summer delivers the best camping window at this elevation, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s°F. Nights cool down to the 40s and 50s, ideal for sleep and campfires. Long daylight hours give you time to explore the extensive trail network, fish the headwater streams, or paddle small lakes and ponds. Weekend crowds appear at popular trailheads, but the backcountry stays quiet.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer cited as the best window with mild days and cool nights ideal for camping and hiking.

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.

About Loyalsock State Forest

Loyalsock State Forest offers four primitive campsites scattered across roughly 2,000 feet of elevation in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains near Dushore. These dispersed sites sit within a landscape carved by ancient glaciers, where northern hardwood forests meet headwater streams and waterfalls. There are no bathroom facilities. Expect true backcountry conditions with fire rings and picnic tables but little else.

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 Significance

The forest's name comes from Loyalsock Creek. Natural gas deposits beneath the surface speak to the area's complex geological past.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the best camping window at this elevation, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s°F. Nights cool down to the 40s and 50s, ideal for sleep and campfires. Long daylight hours give you time to explore the extensive trail network, fish the headwater streams, or paddle small lakes and ponds. Weekend crowds appear at popular trailheads, but the backcountry stays quiet.

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 SceneryThe forest straddles two distinct ecoregions: the Glaciated High Plateau and Deep Valleys. This geological meeting point created the dramatic topography visitors see today. Northern hardwood forests dominate the canopy, while pristine headwater streams tumble through the terrain, supporting native brook trout populations. Some campsites sit next to these streams. Waterfalls punctuate the landscape. Black rattlesnakes inhabit rocky areas.

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.

Scenic ViewsNumerous scenic vistas are highlighted, including Haystack Rapids and Dry Run Falls.

Lodging & AccommodationsLoyalsock offers primitive, remote camping with no hotel-style lodges or cabins on site.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not detailed.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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 layoutThe four sites are dispersed and primitive, often accessible from roadside pullouts. Fire rings and picnic tables are provided. No bathrooms exist anywhere in the camping area, so bring a portable toilet or plan for responsible waste disposal. Spacing between sites ensures privacy.

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.

Best CampsitesSites next to streams are the clear favorites. One reviewer noted falling asleep to the sound of water. These streamside spots combine solitude with the ambient noise that masks any distant sounds from the sparse human population nearby.

Need help booking Loyalsock State Forest?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The Loyalsock State Forest provides limited facilities with a focus on dispersed recreation. There are some designated camping areas with primitive amenities. Specific features include a shelter at the trailhead along World’s End Road offering ample parking, and basic picnic facilities available at Dry Run Picnic Area, Bear Wallow, and Sones Pond Recreation Areas. Fire rings and picnic tables may be found at some campsites. From user reviews, it's noted that there are no bathroom facilities at the primitive campsites.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

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.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

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.

Cell CoverageNo details about cell phone service are provided for Loyalsock State Forest.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

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

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

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

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

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Tent campers who bring a pack-out toilet and want a stream-side site at nearly 2,000 feet elevation. Over 200 miles of trail including the Loyalsock Trail, plus brook trout fishing, puts serious outdoor content within reach of a free permit.

Skip if

No bathroom facilities at all, and campfires are banned March through late May without forester approval. If a portable toilet isn't already in your gear list, this place will catch you off guard fast.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.7

(76)

Worlds End State Park

82 Cabin Bridge Road, Forksville, PA 18616-0062

Worlds End State Park sits in a serpentine valley carved by Loyalsock Creek through the Endless Mountains, about 1,168 feet above sea level near Forksville. The campground offers tent and RV sites plus cabin lodging for $3-$8 per night, with clean facilities and zero cell service. It's a true disconnect, surrounded by Loyalsock State Forest.