Camping Area

The Camping Area at Salt Springs State Park provides a quintessential rustic experience for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Susquehanna County. Managed by the Friends of Salt Springs Park in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), this destination is celebrated for its rare old-growth hemlock forests and striking shale gorge. For Pennsylvania residents seeking a quiet getaway, this campground offers a stark contrast to more developed, commercial parks, emphasizing a deep connection with the environment and a return to traditional camping values.

The campground is divided into distinct sections that cater to different styles of outdoor living. Visitors will find primitive walk-in tent sites nestled along the serene banks of Silver Creek, as well as cozy camping cottages that provide a roof over your head without sacrificing the rugged feel of the Endless Mountains region. The atmosphere is consistently described as quiet and well-maintained, making it a favorite for those who prioritize peace and the sounds of nature over modern resort amenities. Whether you are listening to the rushing waterfalls or watching for local wildlife, the park offers an authentic slice of the Pennsylvania wilderness.

Location and accessibility are major draws for regional visitors. Situated at 3119 Silver Creek Rd, Montrose, PA 18801, the park is easily reached from several major hubs. It is located approximately seven miles north of Montrose, making local shopping and dining accessible within a short drive. For those coming from further afield, it is within easy driving distance of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Binghamton, New York. The park features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the beauty of the picnic areas and lower trailheads can be enjoyed by all visitors. However, guests should be aware that the internal roads to the campsites are unplowed in winter, preserving the rustic nature of the terrain.

The services offered at the Salt Springs Camping Area are intentionally "off-grid" in nature to maintain the park's primitive charm. While you won't find modern bathhouses with hot showers or sewer hookups, the facility provides the fundamental necessities for a successful stay. The focus here is on self-sufficiency, and guests are encouraged to arrive prepared for a true "carry-in, carry-out" experience. All sites are designed to minimize the human footprint on the surrounding 842-acre expanse, which includes both state-owned land and acreage preserved by the Friends of Salt Springs Park.

• Primitive tent sites situated along the banks of Silver Creek.
• Three rustic camping cottages equipped with electric lights and outlets.
• Designated areas for group camping in large, mowed fields.
• RV camping sites that can accommodate trailers up to 30 feet in length (no hookups).
• On-site parking with a three-car limit per site or cottage.
• Firewood available for purchase via a major credit card-operated vending machine.
• A large timber-frame pavilion with electricity available for group reservations.
• Vault/composting restrooms located conveniently near the camping loops.
• Water access via outdoor spigots located at the Wheaton House and Dairy Barn.
• Pet-friendly policies allowing leashed dogs in the campground area.

The features and highlights of Salt Springs State Park make it a "hidden gem" of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The focal point for many is the Fall Brook gorge, which features three distinct waterfalls and rock formations that date back centuries. Hiking is the premier activity here, with nearly 15 miles of trails that range from easy meadow walks to steep climbs through the Hemlock grove. The park is also one of the few places in the state where you can see a natural "salt spring," a unique geological feature where saline water bubbles to the surface, lending the park its name.

• Three stunning waterfalls along the Fall Brook Trail and Gorge Trail.
• Ancient old-growth hemlock forest with trees estimated to be 300 to 500 years old.
• Trout-stocked waters in Silver Creek and Fall Brook for seasonal fishing.
• A 26-foot high robot slide and multiple play areas for children.
• Historical farm buildings and the Wheaton House, which serves as a park hub.
• Interpretive programs and community events like the "Full Moon Hike."
• Picnic groves equipped with tables, grills, and scenic views of the water.
• Proximity to local attractions in Montrose, including the historic downtown district.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, from bald eagles to white-tailed deer.
• Winter activities including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on unplowed roads.

For those ready to book their stay or seeking more information, the primary contact for the Camping Area is the Friends of Salt Springs Park. They handle all reservations and can be reached by phone at (570) 967-7275. The mailing address for the park is 3119 Silver Creek Rd, Montrose, PA 18801, USA. It is highly recommended to call in advance for cottage bookings, as these are popular year-round. For general park inquiries, the regional office can also be contacted at (570) 945-3239.

What is worth choosing about this campground is the unparalleled opportunity for solitude. In an era where many state parks are becoming increasingly crowded, Salt Springs remains a sanctuary for the quiet camper. The walk-in tent sites offer a level of privacy that is hard to find elsewhere, allowing you to sleep to the sound of the creek without the hum of nearby generators. The camping cottages are particularly worth choosing for families who want to experience the park in the cooler months, as they provide a sturdy shelter with electricity while still allowing for a traditional campfire experience right outside the door.

Ultimately, choosing Salt Springs State Park means supporting a community-led conservation effort. Because much of the land is managed by a non-profit volunteer group, the park maintains a personal, welcoming touch. It is the perfect destination for Pennsylvania families who want to teach their children about old-growth ecology, historical farming, and the simple joys of a night under the stars. Whether you are there for the waterfalls or the quiet woods, this campground promises a restorative escape that stays true to the spirit of the Endless Mountains.