Campsite 81

For those living in Pennsylvania, the call of the wild is never far away, and Campsite 81 in Toboyne Township stands as a testament to the rugged, natural beauty of the Keystone State. Nestled within the expansive reaches of the Tuscarora State Forest, this campsite is a hidden gem for local residents seeking a break from the noise of suburban life. Unlike commercial campgrounds that often feel crowded, Campsite 81 offers a genuine "back-to-nature" experience, where the rustle of oak leaves and the distant call of woodland birds provide the only soundtrack to your stay. It is the kind of place where you can truly disconnect, recharge, and appreciate the simple pleasures of outdoor living.

Campsite 81 is part of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) motorized roadside camping system. This means that while the environment is primitive and secluded, the site is designed to be accessible by vehicle, making it an excellent choice for local families and individuals who want a wilderness experience without the necessity of a multi-day backpacking trip. As a site located within our state forest system, it serves as a shared heritage for all Pennsylvanians, offering a low-impact way to enjoy the forest while preserving its health and beauty for future generations of campers.

Location and accessibility are among the most appealing factors of Campsite 81. Situated in the 17241 zip code of Toboyne Township, Perry County, the site is conveniently positioned for locals in Central Pennsylvania. To reach the site, travelers will navigate the charming, winding state forest roads that define this region. It is important to note that these roads are typically gravel or dirt and are not maintained during the winter months, so seasonal awareness is key for a safe trip. Once you arrive, you will find that the site is well-cleared and provides ample room for a variety of setups. The accessibility of the site allows you to drive your equipment directly to your temporary home, which is a major convenience for those carrying large tents, coolers, and recreational gear.

As a primitive state forest site, the services offered are minimal by design to ensure the preservation of the forest’s quiet character. However, the basic infrastructure provided is more than sufficient for a comfortable stay if you come prepared. The services and facilities available at Campsite 81 include:

• On-site parking that allows you to keep your vehicle near your tent for easy access and storage.
• A spacious, cleared area for tent pitching, which has been described by previous visitors as notably roomy.
• A permanent fire ring for safe evening campfires, which are a staple of the Pennsylvania camping experience.
• A sturdy picnic table provided for meal preparation and group gatherings.
• Proximity to various forest trails, including the Ant Hill Trail and the North Fork Trail.

The features and highlights of Campsite 81 distinguish it as a premier choice for local outdoor enthusiasts. Its reputation for being a "roomy and quiet" site makes it particularly attractive for those who prioritize privacy. Because state forest campsites are spaced significantly further apart than those in traditional state parks, you can enjoy a level of solitude that is hard to find elsewhere. Key highlights of the site include:

• Exceptional privacy and quiet, allowing for a peaceful retreat away from light and noise pollution.
• Kid-friendly environment, with enough open space for children to play safely under supervision.
• Stargazing opportunities that are among the best in the region, thanks to the site’s remote location within the forest.
• Direct access to hiking and mountain biking opportunities on nearby district trails.
• A partial shade canopy that keeps the site cool during the humid Pennsylvania summer months without blocking out the sky.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of local species such as deer and a variety of forest birds.

To ensure a successful visit to Campsite 81, it is essential to have the correct contact and permit information. In Pennsylvania, motorized roadside camping requires a permit, which can be easily obtained through the state’s reservation system. This ensures that the site is reserved exclusively for your use during your stay. The contact and location details are as follows:

• Address: Campsite 81, Toboyne Township, PA 17241, USA
• Management: Tuscarora State Forest District Office
• Phone: 717-536-3191 (Tuscarora State Forest District Office)
• Reservations: Available through the PA State Parks and Forests online reservation portal.

What is worth choosing about Campsite 81 over other local options? The answer lies in its simplicity and the quality of the space itself. Many local campers choose this site because of its reputation for being "nice and roomy." It accommodates larger tent setups more easily than some of the more cramped sites in the region. Furthermore, its location in the South Block of the Tuscarora State Forest places you in one of the most beautiful and well-managed tracts of woodland in the state. Whether you are looking to spend your days hiking the nearby Ant Hill Trail or your nights sharing stories around a crackling fire, Campsite 81 provides the perfect stage for those memories.

Choosing this site also means choosing a responsible way to enjoy our public lands. By staying at a designated site, you help minimize human impact on the forest. It is a location that demands self-reliance—reminding us to bring our own water and to pack out everything we bring in—but the reward is an unfiltered connection to the Pennsylvania wilderness. For anyone in the Perry County area or beyond looking for a tranquil, family-friendly, and spacious outdoor escape, Campsite 81 is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting.