Tioga State Forest

1 review

One Nessmuk Lane, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

1,519 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Tioga State Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,519 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Tioga State Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Tioga State Forest

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees for camping were mentioned in the source.

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 1 reviews

13 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewshikingsites

"User reviews praise the beautiful views and dispersed camping sites, with specific mentions of overlooks of the gorge."

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Campground Map

One Nessmuk Lane, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States

Tioga State Forest

One Nessmuk Lane, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States

Driving directionsThe Tioga State Forest Resource Management Center is located at One Nessmuk Lane, Wellsboro, PA 16901 about two miles south of Wellsboro on PA-287.

The campground is accessible via PA-287, and it is approximately two miles south of Wellsboro. Roads are paved and accessible year-round.

Nearby places

Wellsboro, PA (2 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Wellsboro (2 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Tioga State Forest

Experience the forest's dramatic seasonal transformations as summer days warm to pleasant temperatures in the upper 70s to lower 80s, perfect for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with temperatures dipping into the 20s and substantial snowfall creating ideal conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while autumn paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons—both seasons offering the most spectacular camping conditions with comfortable temperatures and stunning natural displays.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Warm summer days (upper 70s–low 80s) ideal for hiking, biking, dispersed camping and paddling.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 5% in PA

Brilliant fall foliage and panoramic gorge overlooks make fall a standout season here.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring rafting/kayaking on Pine Creek and reopening of seasonal recreation make spring active.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter offers snowmobiling and cross-country skiing but harsher conditions and fewer services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Camping is available year-round; however, some restrictions apply during fire danger seasons.

About Tioga State Forest

Spanning an impressive 161,890 acres across Bradford and Tioga counties, Tioga State Forest beckons adventurers with its untamed wilderness and primitive camping opportunities. Here, where ancient forests meet dramatic vistas, you'll discover the breathtaking Pine Creek Gorge—lovingly known as Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon—a natural wonder that rivals any scenic destination in the eastern United States.

Tioga State Forest supports primitive camping and has improved camping sites but no RV hookups or glamping options.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with Native American heritage, where the very name 'Tioga' echoes the ancient Seneca phrase meaning 'meeting of two rivers.' This storied land once witnessed the rise and fall of Pennsylvania's legendary lumber industry, a fascinating chapter of American history now preserved and celebrated at the nearby PA Lumber Museum, where visitors can explore the tales of loggers, lumber barons, and the communities that thrived in these dense forests.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the forest's dramatic seasonal transformations as summer days warm to pleasant temperatures in the upper 70s to lower 80s, perfect for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with temperatures dipping into the 20s and substantial snowfall creating ideal conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while autumn paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons—both seasons offering the most spectacular camping conditions with comfortable temperatures and stunning natural displays.

ElevationPerched atop the majestic Appalachian Plateau, the forest's high-altitude terrain creates a world above the everyday, where cooler temperatures and mountain air refresh the spirit. These elevated landscapes offer commanding views and create unique microclimates that support diverse ecosystems found nowhere else in the region.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape sculpted by time and water, where Cedar Run and Babbs Creek carve their way through rugged Appalachian terrain. The crown jewel remains Pine Creek Gorge, a spectacular 47-mile canyon that plunges 1,000 feet deep, offering views that will leave you breathless. Venture deeper to find hidden treasures like the mysterious Black Ash Swamp, where rare plants thrive in shadowy wetlands, and Reynolds Spring Natural Area, where crystal-clear waters bubble up from underground sources, creating pristine habitats for unique wildlife.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the ancient Appalachian Plateau, where millions of years of geological forces have created a landscape of stunning complexity. This rugged, irregular topography tells the story of Earth's history in every ridge and valley. As part of the vital Susquehanna watershed, the forest nurtures high-quality streams that support thriving ecosystems, from mysterious swamps and seasonal vernal pools to diverse habitats that shelter everything from tiny salamanders to majestic black bears. Each geological feature contributes to a rich tapestry of life that makes every visit a journey of discovery.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

7continuous days of camping with a mandatory 48-hour gap before resuming camping.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Camping party must include at least one person aged 18 or older.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCamping is dispersed with no formal sites; picnic areas include Asaph, County Bridge, and Bradley Wales.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Tioga State Forest website.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified.

Cancellation PolicyPermit is null and void if cancelled or transferred prior to arrival date.

AccessibilityAccessibility is not specifically mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.

Site SizeThe sites are dispersed with no specific sizes provided.

PrivacySites are generally dispersed without mention of privacy levels.

Recommended SitesCamping near Pine Creek Gorge for the best views is recommended.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Tioga State Forest offers a wide variety of recreational activities including hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

HikingThe forest features trails such as the Pine Creek Rail Trail, West Rim Trail, Barbour Rock Trail, and Sand Run Trail showcasing the rugged terrain, waterfalls, and stunning canyon views.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing opportunities are available in clear, cool streams such as Cedar Run and Babbs Creek, which are habitats for native brook trout.

BikingMountain and trail biking are supported, with shared-use trails available throughout the forest and along the Pine Creek Rail Trail.

BoatingCanoeing, kayaking, and rafting are common activities on Pine Creek, particularly in the spring.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is encouraged, with the forest's large contiguous habitats offering opportunities to see native flora and fauna.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include fire risks during dry seasons and snow hazards during winter. Wildlife may pose safety concerns.

Fire PolicyCampfires are prohibited March 1–May 25 without authorization and must be attended at all times.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated, but noise restrictions apply.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Wellsboro, PA, with hospitals and police stations accessible within 2 miles.

Trash & RecyclingGarbage and waste must be removed from the site by campers; no on-site trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe forest contains Pine Creek, Cedar Run, Babbs Creek, and other waterways suitable for fishing or kayaking.

Camp HostNo campground hosts are mentioned.

Weather at Tioga State Forest

Reviews

0.0

1 reviews

Limited Reviews

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

User reviews praise the beautiful views and dispersed camping sites, with specific mentions of overlooks of the gorge.

Review Summaries

Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include stunning views, dispersed campsites, and the availability of trails for hiking and biking.

Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific complaints are highlighted in user reviews.

Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should prepare for primitive conditions and bring their trash disposal options.

Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are popular seasons due to rafting on Pine Creek and brilliant fall foliage views.

Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful views and some nice campsites overlooking the gorge." - Carlos Robayo (2018-04-02)

Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers or reviews are provided.

Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and campers are advised to keep them under control and dispose of animal waste properly.

Based on 1 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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