Pennsylvania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of stunning landscapes and opportunities for backcountry camping. Whether you’re planning to hike the Appalachian Trail, explore the vast wilderness of the Allegheny National Forest, or immerse yourself in the tranquility of the state’s numerous forests and parks, it’s crucial to understand the permits and regulations that govern backcountry camping in the Keystone State.
Pennsylvania State Forests
Pennsylvania’s 2.2 million acres of state forest land provide ample opportunities for primitive camping, also known as backpacking. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) manages these lands and sets forth the regulations for backcountry camping.
Primitive Camping Permits
In most cases, a permit is not required for primitive camping in state forests if you plan to stay no more than one night at a single location. However, you must obtain a free camping permit if:
- You plan to stay at the same campsite for more than one night
- Your group consists of more than 10 people
- You are camping in a designated Natural Area or Wild Area
To request a free primitive camping permit, contact the state forest district office responsible for the area where you plan to camp. You can find contact information for each district office on the DCNR website: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Pages/default.aspx
Camping Regulations
When primitive camping in Pennsylvania state forests, it’s essential to follow these regulations:
- Camp at least 200 feet from any water source, trail, or road
- Use existing campsites whenever possible to minimize impact on the environment
- Dispose of waste properly and practice Leave No Trace principles
- Campfires are permitted, but check for any fire restrictions or bans before your trip
- Respect wildlife and do not feed or approach animals
- Do not camp in areas closed to camping, such as designated Natural Areas or Wild Areas (unless you have a permit)
For more information on primitive camping in Pennsylvania state forests, visit the DCNR’s Backpacking and Primitive Camping page: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Recreation/WhatToDo/StayOvernight/BackpackingAndPrimitiveCamping/Pages/default.aspx
Pennsylvania State Parks
Pennsylvania’s 121 state parks offer a variety of camping experiences, including backpacking and overnight hiking. However, unlike state forests, camping in state parks is only permitted in designated areas and requires a reservation.
Backpacking and Overnight Hiking Permits
To backpack or hike overnight in a Pennsylvania state park, you must obtain a camping permit and camp in designated areas. Currently, five state parks allow backpacking and overnight hiking:
- Laurel Ridge State Park
- Ohiopyle State Park
- Oil Creek State Park
- Raccoon Creek State Park
- Ricketts Glen State Park
These parks provide backpacking trails with trailside shelters or designated campsites. You must pre-register and obtain a camping permit to hike and camp overnight in these parks. To make a reservation and secure your permit, visit the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation website: https://pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com/ In the “Where” field, enter the name of the state park you wish to visit. In the “Interested in” field, select “Permits & Wilderness” from the dropdown menu.
Camping Regulations
When backpacking or hiking overnight in Pennsylvania state parks, remember to:
- Camp only in designated areas or trailside shelters
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment
- Adhere to any park-specific regulations, such as group size limits or fire restrictions
- Properly store food and dispose of waste to avoid attracting wildlife
For more information on camping in Pennsylvania state parks, visit the DCNR’s State Park Camping page: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/StateParkPrices/Camping/Pages/default.aspx
Allegheny National Forest
The Allegheny National Forest, located in northwestern Pennsylvania, is the state’s only national forest. Spanning over 500,000 acres, this vast wilderness offers numerous opportunities for dispersed camping, also known as primitive or backcountry camping.
Dispersed Camping Permits
In the Allegheny National Forest, a permit is not required for dispersed camping. However, there are specific regulations and guidelines that you must follow to ensure a safe and responsible camping experience.
Camping Regulations
When dispersed camping in the Allegheny National Forest, keep these regulations in mind:
- Camp at least 200 feet from any water source, trail, or road
- Do not camp within 1,500 feet of developed recreation areas, such as campgrounds or picnic areas
- Limit your stay to 14 consecutive days in a single location
- Properly dispose of waste and practice Leave No Trace principles
- Campfires are permitted, but use existing fire rings when possible and ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving
- Respect wildlife and do not feed or approach animals
- Do not camp in areas closed to camping, such as designated wildlife areas or research natural areas
For more information on dispersed camping in the Allegheny National Forest, visit the U.S. Forest Service’s Allegheny National Forest Camping page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/allegheny/recreation/camping-cabins
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail (A.T.), a 2,190-mile footpath stretching from Georgia to Maine, passes through Pennsylvania for approximately 230 miles. While most of the A.T. does not require a permit for camping, there are specific regulations and guidelines to follow.
Camping Regulations
When camping along the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania, remember to:
- Camp at least 200 feet from any water source, trail, or road
- Use existing campsites and shelters whenever possible to minimize impact on the environment
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the trail
- Respect wildlife and do not feed or approach animals
- Adhere to any trail-specific regulations, such as group size limits or fire restrictions
Pennsylvania Game Lands Regulations
A significant portion of the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania passes through State Game Lands, managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. When hiking and camping in these areas, be aware of the following regulations:
- From November 15 to December 15, all hikers and campers must wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest, and back combined, or a fluorescent orange hat visible from all angles
- Only thru-hikers (those hiking the entire A.T. in one continuous journey) may camp on State Game Lands, and they must camp within 200 feet of the trail and at least 500 feet from any stream or spring
For more information on hiking and camping along the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania, visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Pennsylvania page: https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/explore-by-state/pennsylvania/
Leave No Trace Principles
Regardless of where you choose to camp in Pennsylvania’s backcountry, it’s essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. The seven principles of Leave No Trace are:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
By following these principles, you help preserve Pennsylvania’s natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Final Words
Pennsylvania offers a wealth of opportunities for backcountry camping, from the rugged wilderness of the Allegheny National Forest to the iconic Appalachian Trail. By understanding the permits and regulations that govern camping in these areas, you can ensure a safe, responsible, and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Remember to always check with the appropriate land management agency for the most up-to-date information on permits, regulations, and trail conditions before embarking on your backcountry adventure. With proper planning and a commitment to Leave No Trace principles, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Pennsylvania while helping to protect these precious resources for years to come.
So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and explore the incredible backcountry camping opportunities that Pennsylvania has to offer. Happy trails!
