Delaware State Forest campsite #E013

For outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania looking for a true escape from the noise of modern life, Delaware State Forest campsite #E013 offers a primitive and deeply immersive nature experience. Located in the picturesque region of Dingmans Ferry, this specific campsite is part of the vast Delaware State Forest, which encompasses over 80,000 acres across the Pocono plateau. Unlike developed commercial campgrounds, campsite #E013 is designed for "roadside" or "motorized" camping, meaning you can drive your vehicle directly to or very near the site while still enjoying the seclusion of the deep woods. This type of camping is ideal for local Pennsylvanians who want the rugged feel of the backcountry without the need to hike miles with a heavy pack.

Campsite #E013, also historically associated with the CCC Camp area, provides a tranquil setting where the primary sounds are the rustling of leaves and the calls of local wildlife. It is a place where the night sky remains dark, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities rarely found near the state's larger suburbs. Because the site is singular and remote, you won't find rows of neighbors or communal bathhouses; instead, you find a private slice of the forest that encourages self-reliance and a slower pace of life. It is an excellent choice for families looking to teach children about the environment or for individuals seeking a quiet weekend of reflection amidst the hardwoods and glacial boulders of Pike County.

Location and accessibility are important considerations for this site. Situated on Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, the campsite is roughly 6.7 miles west of PA-739 and 5 miles from PA-402. While it is accessible by most standard highway vehicles during the warmer months, the road consists of dirt and gravel, so drivers should exercise caution. In the winter, these forest roads do not receive routine maintenance or plowing, making the site a seasonal favorite for most. The location is strategically placed for those who want to explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, as it sits near the northern gateway of this famous preserve. This allows campers to enjoy the total privacy of the state forest at night while being only a short drive from world-class waterfalls and river access during the day.

The services offered at Delaware State Forest campsite #E013 are intentionally minimal to preserve the primitive character of the forest. There are no electric hookups, water spigots, or sewer connections available. This is a "carry-in, carry-out" facility, meaning all guests are responsible for removing their own trash and leaving the site in pristine condition. However, the state does provide a few essential structures to facilitate a safe and organized stay. The services and site-specific infrastructure include:

• A designated on-site parking area that can accommodate up to four vehicles (maximum length of 40 feet).
• A professional reservation system managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).
• Periodic patrols by DCNR Rangers to ensure the safety of the forest and its visitors.
• Administrative support via the district office for permit inquiries and local fire safety updates.
• Clear signage and a sign board at the site to help identify the designated camping area.

The features and highlights of campsite #E013 make it a standout for those who appreciate the natural beauty of the Poconos. The site itself is shaded and offers a moderate driveway grade, providing a comfortable footprint for a variety of camping equipment. Key features include:

• A heavy-duty fire ring with a built-in grill, perfect for traditional campfire cooking.
• A standard wooden picnic table, serving as the central hub for meals and gear organization.
• Proximity to various hiking trails, including those leading to scenic streams and nearby lakes.
• A kid-friendly environment where children can explore the woods safely within sight of the vehicle.
• Pet-friendly regulations, allowing dogs to join the family adventure as long as they remain leashed and attended.
• Easy access to nearby world-famous attractions such as Raymondskill Falls and Dingmans Falls.
• Large site dimensions (approximately 50 feet in length) providing ample room for tents or small trailers.

To stay at Delaware State Forest campsite #E013, a permit is mandatory. Reservations must be made in advance through the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests reservation system. For assistance or more information regarding the specific conditions of the forest roads, you can contact the district office directly:

Delaware State Forest district office

Address: Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA

Phone: (570) 895-4000

Mobile Phone: +1 570-895-4000

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

What makes Delaware State Forest campsite #E013 worth choosing is the rare balance it strikes between vehicle accessibility and deep-forest solitude. While many developed campgrounds in the Poconos can feel crowded and noisy during the peak summer season, site #E013 offers a private sanctuary where your only neighbors are the trees. It is particularly worth choosing for those who already own their camping gear and prefer to manage their own water and waste in exchange for a more authentic outdoor experience. The cost is significantly lower than private campgrounds, making it an economically smart choice for frequent campers.

Additionally, the site’s location on Silver Lake Road provides a unique "basecamp" advantage. You are close enough to the Delaware River for a morning of kayaking or fishing, yet high enough on the plateau to enjoy cooler evening temperatures and the classic mountain air. For Pennsylvania residents who have visited the more famous state parks and are looking for something a bit more rugged and "undiscovered," the motorized sites in Delaware State Forest represent the next level of adventure. Choosing campsite #E013 means choosing a weekend of self-reliance, breathtaking natural beauty, and the kind of quiet that only the Pennsylvania state forests can provide.