Edgemere - Delaware State Forest

Edgemere - Delaware State Forest offers a distinctively rugged and peaceful retreat for those who wish to escape the highly developed commercial resorts of the Pocono Mountains. Located in the northern reaches of the Delaware State Forest near Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, this area is part of the state’s motorized roadside camping program. Unlike traditional campgrounds that feature rows of sites and bustling activity, Edgemere provides individual, dispersed campsites that emphasize solitude and an intimate connection with the forest. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), these sites are designed for the self-sufficient camper who values the quiet rustle of the wind through the pines and the unparalleled clarity of a mountain night sky.

The Edgemere area is situated on the Pocono Plateau, a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers that left behind a mosaic of wetlands, rolling hills, and dense hardwood forests. Camping here is a "primitive" experience, meaning there are no modern conveniences like electricity, running water, or flush toilets. For many local Pennsylvanians, this is the primary draw; it is a place where the sounds of civilization are replaced by the call of the wood thrush and the occasional sighting of white-tailed deer or black bears. The campsites are spread out along state forest roads, providing a level of privacy that is nearly impossible to find in private parks, making it a premier choice for those seeking a true wilderness immersion.

Location and accessibility are key components of the Edgemere camping experience. The campground is centered around the Silver Lake Road area in Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. Most sites, such as the popular E009 Highline or E013 CCC Camp, are accessed via Silver Lake Road, Highline Road, or Pine Flats Road. While the coordinates for these sites are publicly available, travelers should be aware that access involves navigating dirt and gravel state forest roads. While many sites are reachable by standard passenger vehicles during the dry summer months, a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is highly recommended after heavy rains or in late autumn. It is important to note that these roads are not maintained for winter travel and often become impassable due to snow and ice. Despite its remote feel, Edgemere is strategically located near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, offering easy access to some of the state's most iconic waterfalls and hiking trails.

As a primitive state forest facility, the services offered at Edgemere are focused on administrative support and safety rather than luxury amenities. Campers are expected to follow the "Pack-In, Pack-Out" philosophy, ensuring the forest remains pristine for future generations. The specific services provided include:

• An online reservation and permit system through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests portal, ensuring your site is secured before arrival.
• Periodic patrols by DCNR Forest Rangers to ensure the safety of campers and the protection of natural resources.
• Maintenance of forest roads and clear marking of designated campsite boundaries and parking spurs.
• Provision of official DCNR fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables at each authorized site.
• Information services through the Delaware State Forest District Office regarding seasonal fire bans and local trail conditions.
• Management of the forest as a multi-use area, allowing for permitted activities like hiking, bird watching, and seasonal hunting in the surrounding acreage.

The features and highlights of Edgemere - Delaware State Forest cater to the adventurous spirit. The physical layout of each site is unique, often carved into the natural landscape to provide maximum shelter and aesthetic appeal. Notable highlights include:

• Motorized roadside access, allowing you to park your vehicle directly at or very near your tent site for easy gear storage.
• Spacious sites that can often accommodate up to ten occupants and multiple vehicles or small camping trailers (up to 40 feet in some locations).
• Deep forest seclusion with sites frequently separated by hundreds of yards of untouched wilderness.
• Immediate proximity to the Thunder Swamp Trail system, a 45-mile hiking network that traverses the most remote sections of the forest.
• A pet-friendly environment where dogs are welcome to explore the trails and campsite alongside their owners.
• Stunning natural features, including nearby glacial bogs, scenic streams, and high-elevation vistas.
• A family-friendly atmosphere that is particularly "good for kids" who are ready to learn about forest ecology and primitive survival skills.

To plan a trip to Edgemere, visitors must contact the Delaware State Forest administrative center or use the state's central booking system. The physical address for the general area is 1085 Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA. For specific questions about site dimensions, current road conditions, or the permit process, you can call the District Office at (570) 895-4000. Reservations are required for all motorized camping and can be made up to six months in advance. Because these sites are highly sought after by local enthusiasts, early booking for summer weekends is essential. Remember that there is a seven-night limit for continuous stays to ensure that all Pennsylvanians have a chance to enjoy these public lands.

What is worth choosing about Edgemere - Delaware State Forest is the opportunity for total disconnection. In a world of constant digital noise, these campsites offer a sanctuary where the only "network" is the interconnected roots of the forest. Choosing Edgemere means choosing a vacation that focuses on the fundamentals: a perfectly built campfire, a well-placed hammock, and the simple joy of a meal eaten outdoors. It is also a highly cost-effective option for those who already have their own gear, as the permit fees are minimal compared to private campgrounds. However, potential visitors should come prepared with high-quality insect repellent and "tick-smart" clothing, as the lush undergrowth that makes the area so beautiful is also home to local wildlife. For the prepared camper, the peace, privacy, and raw beauty of Edgemere represent the very best of the Pennsylvania wild.