Masten Camping Area

For those seeking a deep connection with the Pennsylvania wilderness, Masten Camping Area offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. Located in the heart of the Loyalsock State Forest, this camping area sits on the site of a historic lumber ghost town. Once a bustling center of industry, the village of Masten has been reclaimed by nature, leaving behind a serene landscape of rolling hills, dense hardwoods, and the gentle murmur of Pleasant Stream. Today, it serves as one of the primary gateways for outdoor enthusiasts in the Susquehanna Valley and beyond, providing a rustic basecamp for hikers, families, and those looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the heritage of the Keystone State.

The Masten Camping Area is distinct from many other state forest sites because it provides a "campground setting" within a sprawling, undeveloped forest district. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), it caters to visitors who appreciate a basic level of organization while still desiring a "back-to-basics" experience. Unlike dispersed roadside sites that are scattered miles apart, Masten groups several sites together, creating a small community atmosphere that is particularly welcoming for groups or families. It is a place where you can find the remains of old stone fireplaces and listen for the calls of native wildlife, all while enjoying the convenience of designated sites and essential facilities.

Located in Canton, PA, within the northern tier's "Endless Mountains" region, Masten Camping Area is a destination that rewards the journey. To reach the site, travelers typically navigate several miles of dirt and gravel state forest roads, such as Pleasant Stream Road or Masten Road. While these roads are generally well-maintained and accessible by standard two-wheel-drive vehicles during the main camping season, they are not plowed in the winter. This makes the area a seasonal treasure that is most accessible from late spring through the vibrant fall foliage season. Accessibility on-site is designed for traditional forest use; while there is ample on-site parking at the trailhead and within the camping area, the terrain remains naturally rugged.

For Pennsylvania residents, the location is a significant draw due to its proximity to some of the state's most beautiful natural features. It serves as the official trailhead for the Old Loggers Path, a legendary 27.1-mile circuit hike that showcases the high-gradient streams and stunning vistas of Lycoming and Sullivan Counties. Its remote location means that cell service is virtually non-existent, ensuring a true "off-grid" experience. Visitors should plan their arrival with this in mind, downloading maps and coordinating with family before entering the forest boundaries.

The services at Masten Camping Area are designed to support a rustic yet functional camping experience. While it does not offer the luxury amenities of a private resort, it provides the fundamental necessities that allow for a comfortable multi-day stay in the woods. Notably, Masten is one of the few state forest camping areas in the region that offers specialized hookups for those traveling with smaller recreational vehicles. The following services are available to guests:

• Designated RV electric hookups to support smaller campers and trailers.
• Dedicated tent sites featuring cleared areas for setup and traditional forest surroundings.
• Routine maintenance of the camping grounds and access roads during the peak season.
• Permit-based reservation system to ensure your spot is secured before you arrive.
• Access to a centrally located public restroom (latrine) facility.
• A designated on-site parking area for trailhead users and overnight guests.
• Professional oversight by the Loyalsock State Forest District Office staff.

The highlights of Masten Camping Area are inextricably linked to its history and its environment. One of the most beloved features is the availability of picnic tables and fire rings at each site, many of which are built near historic stone fireplaces that date back to the area's lumbering days. For families, the area is exceptionally "good for kids," offering a safe environment to explore the woods, wade in the nearby streams, and enjoy "kid-friendly hikes" that don't require the full 27-mile commitment of the main trail. The nearby Rock Run and Yellow Dog Run are frequently cited by visitors as breathtaking locations for photography and nature observation.

• Direct access to the Old Loggers Path, one of Pennsylvania’s premier loop hiking trails.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs, provided they remain under control and attended.
• A variety of hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.
• Proximity to high-gradient mountain streams, including Pleasant Stream and Rock Run.
• Historic ghost town atmosphere with visible remnants of the 19th-century lumber industry.
• Access to running water (typically via a hand pump) and non-flush toilet facilities.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, from white-tailed deer to various bird species.

To reserve a site or learn more about the current forest conditions, campers should contact the Loyalsock State Forest District Office. Permits are required for all overnight stays at Masten, and because the area is popular, it is recommended to book in advance. The contact details are as follows:

Masten Camping Area
Pleasant Stream Rd, Canton, PA 17724, USA
Phone: (570) 946-4049
Mobile Phone: +1 570-946-4049

Choosing Masten Camping Area is worth it for anyone who values the intersection of history and wilderness. What makes this spot worth choosing is the unparalleled access it provides to the "wild character" of the Endless Mountains without requiring a deep-woods backpacking expedition. You can park your vehicle, set up a comfortable camp with the benefit of an electric hookup, and within minutes be standing on a trail that leads to some of the most spectacular waterfalls and vistas in the state. The $16.50 nightly fee (subject to change) is a small price for the peace of mind that comes with a reserved, maintained site in such a remote and beautiful setting.

Furthermore, Masten is worth choosing because of its versatility. It serves the solo hiker looking for a quiet night before a 27-mile trek just as well as it serves a family looking to teach their children about forest conservation and Pennsylvania history. The lack of modern distractions—like cell service and television—encourages a quality of engagement with the natural world that is increasingly rare. Whether you are there to see the wild cat prints in the winter snow or to marvel at the lush greenery of mid-summer, Masten provides a consistent, reliable, and deeply authentic Pennsylvania camping experience. It remains a cherished destination for those who know that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to spend a few nights in a place that remembers the past.