Broadhead creek designated camp site 3

For those who seek the true essence of the Pennsylvania wilderness, Broadhead Creek Designated Camp Site 3 offers a raw and unfiltered connection to the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains. Located within the vast expanse of the Delaware State Forest, this specific site is part of the state’s motorized roadside camping program. Unlike modern RV resorts that feature paved pads and neon lights, Site 3 is designed for the minimalist camper who values solitude, the rustle of hemlocks, and the gentle murmur of nearby flowing water. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), this designated area provides a structured way to enjoy dispersed camping while protecting the delicate ecosystem of the Broadhead Creek watershed.

The Broadhead Creek area is legendary among Pennsylvanians for its historical significance in American fly fishing and its role as a vital corridor for local wildlife. Camp Site 3 serves as a gateway to this heritage, offering a quiet clearing where families and solo adventurers can pitch a tent or park a small camper. The atmosphere here is deeply tranquil, characterized by the dense forest canopy and the absence of urban noise. It is an ideal spot for those looking to "unplug," as cell service is famously spotty, allowing the rhythms of the forest to dictate the pace of your stay. Whether you are an angler hoping to catch the morning rise or a hiker looking for a basecamp near the Delaware State Forest trail systems, this site embodies the rugged spirit of Monroe County’s backcountry.

Location and accessibility are critical factors for anyone planning a visit to this remote location. Broadhead Creek Designated Camp Site 3 is located along Laurel Run Road in Cresco, PA 18326. This area is nestled in the "Snow Hill" region of the Delaware State Forest. To reach the site, travelers typically navigate via PA-447, turning onto the gravel-topped state forest roads that wind through the mountains. While the site is classified as "motorized," meaning you can drive your vehicle directly to the camping area, the roads are primitive. Local users should be aware that Laurel Run Road is a dirt and gravel path that can become rugged after heavy rains or during the winter months. A high-clearance vehicle or 4WD is often recommended to ensure a smooth journey. Despite its secluded feel, the site remains within a reasonable driving distance of the small-town amenities in Cresco and Mountainhome, offering a perfect balance between isolation and convenience.

As a primitive state forest campsite, the services offered are intentionally minimal to preserve the "wild" character of the land. There are no electric hookups, running water, or sewer connections. Campers are expected to be entirely self-sufficient, following "Carry-In, Carry-Out" principles. However, the DCNR provides several key administrative and safety services to facilitate a legal and organized stay:

• A mandatory permit system ensures that the site is reserved exclusively for your group, preventing overcrowding and ensuring a quiet experience.
• Site-specific maintenance including a designated level area for parking and tent setup.
• Provision of a heavy-duty steel fire ring with a grate to encourage safe and contained campfires.
• A standard wooden picnic table for food preparation, dining, and organizing gear.
• Regular patrols by DCNR Forest Rangers to monitor the area for safety and environmental compliance.
• Online reservation capabilities through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests portal, allowing for advanced planning.
• Clear signage at the site entrance to help campers identify their reserved location along the forest road.

The features and highlights of Broadhead Creek Designated Camp Site 3 make it a standout choice for seasoned woodsmen and outdoor-loving families alike. The physical layout of the site is designed to harmonize with the surrounding woods rather than replace them. Notable highlights include:

• Proximity to Broadhead Creek, an "Exceptional Value" waterway renowned for its high water quality and native trout populations.
• Ample space for large tents or small-to-medium-sized camping trailers (typically up to 30 feet, depending on current road conditions).
• A dense surrounding forest of oak, maple, and pine that provides natural shade and privacy from the forest road.
• Direct access to miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and seasonal cross-country skiing.
• Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of white-tailed deer, black bears, and a diverse array of migratory birds.
• A pet-friendly environment where well-behaved dogs can enjoy the forest alongside their owners.
• Exceptionally dark night skies, offering some of the best stargazing opportunities in the eastern Poconos due to the lack of light pollution.

For those looking to secure a permit or learn more about current conditions, the primary contact point is the Delaware State Forest district office. The physical location for navigation is Laurel Run Road, Cresco, PA 18326. To speak with a forest official regarding fire bans, road closures, or group size limits, you can call the District Office at (570) 895-4000. Reservations must be made in advance through the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests website or by calling the central reservation line at 888-PA-PARKS. It is important to note that a physical copy of your permit should be displayed or kept on person while occupying the site.

What is worth choosing about Broadhead Creek Designated Camp Site 3 is the sense of true ownership and peace it provides for a very modest fee—or often just the cost of a permit. In a world where campsites are often packed side-by-side, Site 3 offers a rare "island" of privacy. You aren't just renting a patch of grass; you are gaining a private window into one of Pennsylvania's most pristine forest environments. Choosing this site means choosing the crackle of a real wood fire over the hum of an RV air conditioner and the first light filtering through a hemlock grove over a digital alarm clock. For the dedicated angler, the immediate access to the Broadhead Creek’s legendary waters is an unmatched perk. For the family looking to bond away from screens, the simplicity of Site 3 provides the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories in the heart of the Keystone State.