Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2

For residents of Pennsylvania seeking a true escape into the wild, Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2 offers an authentic primitive camping experience. Located in the heart of the rugged Ridge and Valley Province, this specific site is tucked away in the Spruce Creek area, providing the kind of solitude that is increasingly hard to find. Unlike modern commercial campgrounds, Rothrock State Forest's designated motorized sites are designed for those who value the "working forest" atmosphere—where the focus is on natural beauty, pure water, and a low-density recreation experience.

Campsite #2, often referred to as the Colerain Road site, is a favorite among local Pennsylvanians for its isolation and scenic vistas. It serves as an ideal base for those visiting nearby State College or exploring the vast 96,000-acre forest. The site captures the essence of Pennsylvania's outdoor heritage, offering a place where the sound of the wind through the hardwoods and the sight of native wildlife are the primary forms of entertainment. It is a location that demands self-reliance but rewards visitors with a profound sense of peace and a direct connection to the Appalachian landscape.

The location of Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2 is at Spruce Creek, PA 16683. While the address suggests a traditional town setting, the site itself is located along Colerain Road within the state forest boundaries. Accessing this campsite is an adventure in itself, as it requires traveling over dirt and gravel forest roads that are not maintained during the winter months. For local users, this means checking weather conditions and road status before heading out, especially during the shoulder seasons.

• The campsite is accessible via Colerain Road, approximately 1.7 miles from the intersection with PA Route 45.
• It features a pull-through driveway approximately 85 feet in length, making it accessible for cars, trucks, and small trailers.
• While the site is scenic and remote, the terrain can be rock-strewn and uneven; a high-clearance vehicle is often recommended for navigating forest roads safely.
• Winter travelers should be aware that these roads often become snow-covered and potentially impassable, as the Bureau of Forestry does not plow them.
• The site is positioned within easy reach of the Little Juniata River and Spruce Creek, both of which are legendary among Pennsylvania fly-fishing enthusiasts.

Services at Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2 are intentionally minimal to preserve the primitive character of the forest. There are no electric hookups, water spigots, or trash collection services provided on-site. Visitors must adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning you must pack in all your supplies—including water—and pack out all waste. This is a managed motorized site, which means that while it is primitive, it is a designated spot where vehicle-based camping is permitted with a valid permit.

• Motorized camping at this site requires a permit, which is typically free but must be reserved in advance through the Pennsylvania state forest reservation system.
• A single picnic table is provided at the site for meal preparation and dining.
• A designated fire ring is available for campfires, though strict seasonal restrictions apply (typically fires are prohibited from March 1st through May 25th).
• There are no public restrooms or shower facilities directly at the site; campers should use self-contained toilets or follow DCNR guidelines for waste disposal in the backcountry.
• Cell service is often unreliable or non-existent in this part of the forest, encouraging a truly "unplugged" experience.

The highlights of Campsite #2 center on its spectacular natural setting and its proximity to world-class recreation. Because Rothrock State Forest is managed for biodiversity, campers have the opportunity to see a variety of native species in their natural habitat. The site is a haven for those who enjoy the "gritty" side of Pennsylvania's outdoors, from rock-strewn ridges to cool, hemlock-shaded bottomlands.

• The site is considered "good for kids," providing a safe, designated area to introduce children to the basics of primitive camping and woodcraft.
• Dogs are allowed and welcomed, making it a top choice for Pennsylvania pet owners who want to hike with their companions on the forest's 300 miles of trails.
• The campsite is highly isolated, offering a level of privacy that far exceeds what is available at state park campgrounds or private RV parks.
• Nearby trails include portions of the Mid State Trail and the Standing Stone Trail, offering everything from easy walks to challenging ridge-top treks.
• The area is a premier destination for mountain biking and gravel riding, with over 290 miles of forest roads and trails open to cyclists.

To secure your stay at Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2, you should contact the district office or use the official online reservation portal. Since this is a specific, single-site designation, it is wise to book well in advance, especially for weekend stays during the peak summer and fall foliage seasons.

• Address: Colerain Road, Spruce Creek, PA 16683, USA
• Phone: (717) 787-2869 (DCNR Main Office)
• Local District Office: (814) 643-2340 (Rothrock Forest District #5)

What is worth choosing about Rothrock State Forest Campsite #2 is the opportunity for a truly serene and scenic getaway that costs nothing but a bit of planning. For Pennsylvania residents who find traditional campgrounds too crowded or noisy, the isolation of Site #2 is its greatest luxury. It offers a front-row seat to the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, with nothing but the forest between you and the stars.

Furthermore, choosing this site supports the sustainable management of Pennsylvania's public lands. By using designated sites and following permit regulations, you help the Bureau of Forestry protect sensitive habitats like the nearby Bear Meadows Natural Area. Whether you are using the site as a base for a mountain biking weekend or simply want a quiet place to read by a campfire, Site #2 provides a high-quality, authentic wilderness experience that reflects the best of what Pennsylvania's state forests have to offer.