Campsite #91

For residents of Pennsylvania who seek a true escape from the clamor of modern life, the deep woods of Perry County offer a sanctuary like no other. Campsite #91, located near the charming community of Blain, is a designated motorized roadside campsite within the expansive Tuscarora State Forest. This site is not a commercial campground with paved roads and swimming pools; instead, it represents the raw, natural beauty of the "Ridge and Valley" region of south-central Pennsylvania. It is an ideal destination for local campers who value solitude, a "leave no trace" philosophy, and the opportunity to wake up surrounded by towering oaks and hemlocks.

Campsite #91 is a specific, numbered location managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). It provides a structured way to enjoy dispersed recreation in a remote setting. While many commercial parks focus on social activities, this site focuses on the forest itself. For a local user, this means having a private slice of the wilderness that serves as a quiet home base for birdwatching, stargazing, and exploring the miles of trails that crisscross the Tuscarora State Forest. It is a place where the primary sounds are the wind through the canopy and the crunch of leaves underfoot.

Location and accessibility are critical considerations for anyone planning a trip to this part of Pennsylvania. Campsite #91 is situated in the "South Block" of the forest, specifically located on Elk Hill Road. It sits between two bridges and is approximately 0.4 miles from Laurel Run Road, making it relatively easy to find for those familiar with the forest's gravel road network. However, visitors should be aware that state forest roads are not maintained in the winter and can become icy or impassable. Access is best during the spring, summer, and fall. The driveway entry is parallel to the road with a moderate grade, and the site features side-by-side parking spaces, allowing you to keep your vehicle near your tent for convenience.

The services offered at Campsite #91 are intentionally minimal to preserve the primitive character of the forest. There are no modern conveniences such as electricity, running water, or sewer hookups. Local users should come prepared to be entirely self-sufficient. To stay at this site, a permit is required through the DCNR reservation system, ensuring that only one party occupies the space at a time. The service model here is based on the "carry-in, carry-out" principle. Below are the key services and logistical details for the site:

• Motorized roadside camping permit system for exclusive site reservation.
• Designated on-site parking area for up to one vehicle (maximum length 25 feet).
• Self-contained toilet requirement: Campers must provide their own sanitation and pack out all waste.
• Regulation of group size, typically limited to five individuals or one family unit.
• Oversight by DCNR rangers to ensure forest safety and permit compliance.

The features and highlights of Campsite #91 make it a standout choice for those who prefer tent camping in a rugged environment. The site is heavily shaded, providing a cool retreat during the humid Pennsylvania summers. Its dimensions are approximately 75 feet in length and 60 feet in width, offering a generous amount of space for a tent and outdoor gear. The highlight for many is the proximity to the natural treasures of the Tuscarora State Forest, including the famous Tuscarora Trail and the Hemlocks Natural Area. Key highlights include:

• Shaded forest setting that provides natural cooling and privacy from the road.
• Single picnic table provided for gear organization and meal preparation.
• A stone fire ring for evening campfires (subject to seasonal fire bans, usually March to May).
• Proximity to hiking and multi-use trails, including the Iron Horse Trail and various scenic vistas.
• Access to world-class wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see black bears, deer, and diverse bird species.
• Tent-only designation, ensuring the area remains quiet and free from the noise of large RV generators.

For those looking to secure a permit or find the exact location, the following contact information and details are essential. The campsite is located in Blain, PA 17006. Because it is part of the state forest system, all administrative inquiries should go through the Tuscarora State Forest District Office. Local users are encouraged to use official maps rather than relying solely on GPS, as cell service is notoriously unreliable in this mountainous terrain.

• Physical Location: Elk Hill Road, 0.4 miles from Laurel Run Road, Blain, PA.
• GPS Coordinates: 40.291702, -77.437569.
• District Office Phone: (717) 536-3191.
• Reservations: Handled through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests online portal (ReserveAmerica).

What is worth choosing about Campsite #91 compared to other options in the Perry County area? The primary factor is the balance of isolation and accessibility. While nearby state parks like Fowlers Hollow or Colonel Denning offer more facilities, they also attract significantly more people. Campsite #91 offers a "wild" experience where you are the only occupant of your immediate area. It is worth choosing for the local hiker or photographer who wants to be first on the trail in the morning without having to drive from a distant hotel or crowded campground loop.

Furthermore, this site is an excellent choice for those who practice "slow camping"—the art of simply being in the woods without the need for high-speed internet or constant entertainment. For a Pennsylvania family, it provides a cost-effective way to teach children about the importance of nature and the responsibility of waste management. The tent-only restriction at this specific site acts as a filter, ensuring that your neighbors (who will be at distant, separate campsites) are likely there for the same quiet reasons you are. If you are looking for a weekend of crackling fires, dark skies for stargazing, and the pure air of the Tuscarora ridges, Campsite #91 is a premier local selection.

In conclusion, when preparing for your visit to Campsite #91, remember to bring all your own water and a self-contained toilet system to comply with state forest regulations. Be sure to check the local fire danger signs before lighting a match, and always respect the "quiet hours" that allow the forest’s nocturnal residents to thrive. By choosing this secluded spot, you are participating in a long tradition of Pennsylvania woodsman culture, ensuring that the wild spaces of Blain remain beautiful for generations to come.