Bonnell Flats Campground

Bonnell Flats Campground offers a quintessential "back-to-nature" experience for outdoor enthusiasts in the heart of Pennsylvania. Located within the sprawling Tiadaghton State Forest, this campground is a hidden gem for those who prefer the tranquility of primitive camping over the amenities of modern RV parks. Nestled along the banks of the historic Pine Creek, the area is renowned for its stunning mountain vistas and its direct connection to the famous Pine Creek Rail Trail. Whether you are seeking a peaceful weekend of fishing or a rugged home base for a multi-day hiking expedition, Bonnell Flats provides a scenic and spacious setting that captures the spirit of the Pennsylvania Wilds.

The campground operates under a philosophy of "pack in, pack out," emphasizing the preservation of its pristine environment. Residents and visitors from across Pennsylvania choose this spot for its unique ability to offer total immersion in the forest landscape. The sites are known for being generously spaced, allowing campers to enjoy a sense of privacy and seclusion that is rare in more commercialized campgrounds. As part of the state forest system, the park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), ensuring that the natural beauty of the valley is protected for future generations of campers, hikers, and anglers.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for Bonnell Flats Campground, particularly for those traveling by foot, bicycle, or water. The campground is located in Salladasburg, PA, positioned roughly 4.3 miles south of the Waterville access area along the Pine Creek Rail Trail. For many users, the most authentic way to arrive is by "floating" in via canoe or kayak, or by cycling along the 62-mile rail trail. While it is tucked away in the forest, it is accessible via PA-44, with the Tiadaghton Resource Management Center in nearby Waterville serving as the primary point for information and permits.

The site is strategically placed to offer easy access to the Pine Creek Valley’s most popular activities. It sits approximately 4.5 miles north of the Whitetail access point, making it a perfect mid-way stopping point for long-distance bikers. For those arriving by vehicle, on-site parking is available, though many campers prefer the "hike-in" or "bike-in" sites that offer a more remote feel. The campground also features wheelchair-accessible parking, ensuring that the natural beauty of the flats is inclusive to all visitors who wish to witness the incredible valley views.

Services offered at Bonnell Flats Campground are intentionally minimal to maintain its rustic and primitive character. This is a destination designed for the self-sufficient camper who enjoys the challenge and reward of a low-impact stay. Available services include:

• Designated rustic tent sites that offer level ground and natural surroundings for a traditional camping experience.
• Provision of running water through shared spigots, allowing for basic hydration and cleaning needs during your stay.
• On-site parking facilities for those who choose to drive to the campground, with easy access to the main road.
• A standardized permit system managed by the DCNR, which ensures that site occupancy is regulated for a quiet and organized environment.
• Maintenance of the surrounding forest trails and access points to the Pine Creek Rail Trail by state forest staff.
• Seasonal oversight by forest rangers to ensure safety, fire regulation compliance, and environmental protection.

The features and highlights of the campground focus on the raw beauty and recreational opportunities of the Tiadaghton State Forest. It is a place where the landscape itself provides the entertainment. Notable highlights include:

• Direct access to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, one of the premier biking and walking paths in the United States, which runs right past the campground area.
• Incredible scenic views of the Pine Creek Valley and the surrounding mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.
• A pet-friendly environment where dogs are allowed to join their owners on the trail and at the campsite.
• Individual site amenities including sturdy picnic tables and established fire rings for evening campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Proximity to world-class fly fishing and seasonal canoeing on Pine Creek, which is just a short walk from the camping flats.
• A child-friendly atmosphere where kids can explore the forest, learn about local wildlife, and experience "real" camping away from screens.
• Access to the Tiadaghton Trail, offering more challenging hiking loops for experienced backpackers seeking to reach higher elevations.

To stay at Bonnell Flats Campground, a permit is required through the DCNR. Because it is a state forest site, it is important to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months and the autumn foliage season. You can contact the local district office for more information on site availability and current regulations:

• Address: Salladasburg, PA 17740, USA (Tiadaghton State Forest)
• Phone: (570) 753-5409
• Mobile Phone: +1 570-753-5409

What is worth choosing about Bonnell Flats Campground is the unparalleled sense of peace and the quality of the "primitive" experience. In a world of crowded RV resorts with constant noise, Bonnell Flats offers the rare sound of the wind through the hemlocks and the steady flow of Pine Creek. It is worth choosing because it forces you to slow down and appreciate the simple rhythms of the outdoors. For bikers on the rail trail, it is a legendary stop that provides a soft place to rest with a view that is easily worth the effort of the ride.

Furthermore, the campground is an exceptional value for families and solo travelers alike. By requiring a permit and adhering to "pack in, pack out" rules, the community of campers here tends to be respectful and like-minded, sharing a deep appreciation for the Pennsylvania wilderness. If you are looking for a place where you can watch eagles soar over the creek in the morning and sit by a crackling fire under a star-filled sky at night, Bonnell Flats is the definitive choice. It is more than just a campsite; it is a gateway to the best of what the Pennsylvania state forest system has to offer.