Primitive Campsite #10

For Pennsylvania residents who crave a true disconnect from the digital world, Primitive Campsite #10 in Shippensburg offers a raw and rewarding outdoor experience. Located within the northern reaches of the Michaux State Forest, this site is the antithesis of a crowded RV resort. Here, the hum of air conditioners and the glow of streetlights are replaced by the rustle of the forest canopy and the brilliant clarity of the Milky Way. Known as a "motorized roadside site," it provides a rare opportunity to drive deep into the woods of Cumberland County while still enjoying a level of solitude typically reserved for backcountry hikers. For those who live in the Cumberland Valley, it is a local treasure that embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania's vast state forest system.

The atmosphere at Site #10 is defined by its intentional simplicity. There are no bathhouses, no electrical hookups, and no paved pads—just a cleared space and an established fire ring. This lack of development attracts a specific type of visitor: the self-sufficient camper who values silence and nature above all else. Reviewers often describe the space as "amazingly peaceful," noting that the only "neighbors" you are likely to encounter are the occasional hiker or horseback rider passing through on the nearby trail systems. It is an ideal spot for teaching children about the "Leave No Trace" philosophy or for groups who want to gather around a campfire without the interruptions of a modern campground.

Location and accessibility are unique for this specific site. Found along Ridge Road in Shippensburg, PA 17257, the campsite is positioned high on the northern slopes of the South Mountain range. While the address lists Shippensburg, the experience is firmly situated in the wilderness of Michaux. Accessibility is a key highlight; the site is located far enough off Ridge Road to feel entirely private and secluded, yet close enough that your vehicle remains conveniently accessible for gear storage. Travelers should be aware that Ridge Road is a gravel forest road that can be rugged depending on the season. While standard vehicles can often make the trip in fair weather, a vehicle with moderate clearance is recommended, especially after rain or snow. The site itself is just a short walk from the parking area, ensuring you are never too far from your supplies while still feeling immersed in the woods.

Services offered at Primitive Campsite #10 are minimal by design, reflecting the "primitive" designation. This site is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) as part of their motorized camping program. While there are no on-site staff members or utilities, the service provided is the preservation of the land and the maintenance of the fire ring and clearing. Visitors must be prepared to bring everything they need, including water, and must take everything back with them when they leave. For local Pennsylvanians, this is a "bring your own" adventure in its purest form.

• Designated cleared tent sites capable of accommodating multiple small tents or a large family tent.
• Established stone or metal fire ring for safe evening campfires (seasonal restrictions apply).
• On-site parking area located within 300 feet of the camping clearing.
• Access to a wide network of multi-use trails directly from the campsite’s doorstep.
• Pet-friendly environment where dogs are allowed to enjoy the forest alongside their owners.
• Permit-based camping which ensures that the site is reserved exclusively for your group during your stay.
• Informal social encounters with local horseback riders and hikers, adding to the rural charm.

The features and highlights of Site #10 revolve around its strategic position within the Michaux State Forest trail network. One of the biggest draws is the immediate access to the Lower and Upper Lollipop Trails, which are practically on the campsite's front doorstep. These trails offer a mix of terrain that is excellent for both casual morning walks and more rigorous afternoon hikes. Furthermore, the site is known for its proximity to some of the most scenic gravel roads in the region, which are popular for mountain biking and dual-sport motorcycling. The elevation of the site often provides cooler temperatures than the valley floor, making it a sought-after escape during the peak of a Pennsylvania summer.

• Direct trailhead access to the Lollipop Trail system for immediate hiking opportunities.
• A spacious and relatively level clearing that is perfect for kid-friendly camping setups.
• Secluded mountain atmosphere with minimal light pollution, offering world-class stargazing.
• Close proximity to the Appalachian Trail (AT) for those interested in section hiking or meeting "thru-hikers."
• A "motorized roadside" designation that allows you to have your car nearby for safety and convenience.
• Abundant opportunities for wildlife photography, including sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and local bird species.
• A short drive to the historic Ironmaster’s Mansion and Pine Grove Furnace State Park for day trips.

For those looking to reserve Primitive Campsite #10, it is important to contact the Michaux State Forest district office or use the official DCNR reservation portal. Permits are required for all motorized roadside sites in Pennsylvania State Forests and are typically free or available for a nominal fee.

Address: Ridge Road, Shippensburg, PA 17257, USA

Phone: (717) 352-2211 (Michaux State Forest District Office)

What is worth choosing about Site #10 is the sheer authenticity of the experience. In an era where many "campgrounds" are becoming more like outdoor hotels, this Shippensburg site remains a bastion of the traditional camping spirit. It is worth choosing because it offers the gift of silence—a commodity that is increasingly hard to find in the mid-state region. The convenience of being able to drive to your site while still enjoying the privacy of a deep-woods hike-in site is a rare combination that makes this location a standout. It is the perfect choice for the Pennsylvanian who wants to test their outdoor skills, spend quality time with their family without screens, and wake up to the sun hitting the ridges of South Mountain.

Additionally, the location serves as a perfect hub for exploring the diverse ecology of Michaux. Whether you are interested in the geological history of the quartzite ridges or the rich forestry heritage of the "Cradle of Forestry," staying at Site #10 puts you right in the center of the action. It is a rugged, beautiful, and deeply peaceful corner of our state that reminds every visitor why Pennsylvania’s public lands are so vital. For your next weekend away, skip the crowds and the concrete, and choose the simple, profound beauty of Primitive Campsite #10.