Rothrock State Forest Campsite #3

For those who call Central Pennsylvania home, the call of the wild is never far away, but finding a spot that truly feels "off the grid" can be a challenge. Rothrock State Forest Campsite #3, located along the quiet stretch of Pine Swamp Road in Petersburg, offers a unique solution. This is not your typical commercial campground with paved loops and neighbors just feet away. Instead, it is a designated motorized roadside campsite that provides the perfect balance of rugged isolation and vehicular accessibility. For local Pennsylvanians, particularly those in the State College and Huntingdon areas, Site #3 serves as a gateway to 97,000 acres of sprawling woodland, offering a chance to trade the hum of town for the whispering pines of the ridge-and-valley province.

The atmosphere at Site #3 is defined by its "mind-blowing" peace and quiet. As a singular, remote site, it allows groups and families to enjoy a gathering without the restrictions of a crowded park. The forest here is characterized by rock-strewn ridges and dense canopies that change dramatically with the seasons, from the vibrant mountain laurels of spring to the legendary gold and crimson hues of autumn. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to stargaze or a basecamp for a weekend of serious trekking, this campsite captures the authentic spirit of Pennsylvania’s state forest system.

Location and accessibility are primary considerations for visitors to Rothrock. Situated at Pine Swamp Road, Petersburg, PA 16669, the site is conveniently located for those traveling from State College (roughly a 20-30 minute drive) or Huntingdon. To reach the site from PA-26, campers typically take Pine Swamp Road directly to the designated marker. Alternatively, one can take US-322 to Bear Meadows Road, transition to Laurel Run Road, and then turn onto Pine Swamp Road. It is important to note that the roads leading to the site are gravel forest roads that can stretch for miles. While generally well-maintained during the warmer months, they are not plowed in the winter, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended to navigate the natural terrain. Once at the site, visitors will find a spacious driveway—approximately 140 feet in length—allowing for easy parking of a large vehicle or a small trailer.

As a motorized roadside campsite, the services offered at Rothrock State Forest Campsite #3 are purposefully primitive. This is a "carry-in, carry-out" facility, meaning campers must be entirely self-sufficient. There are no electric hookups, sewer connections, or trash disposal services. While some primitive sites in the forest are strictly for tents, Site #3’s layout supports motorized camping, where your vehicle can remain on-site for storage and transportation. A camping permit is required for all motorized stays and must be obtained through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests reservation system. This ensures that the low-density recreation experience is preserved for everyone.

• Designated tent sites with a grass and dirt surface for a natural feel.
• Access to running water (seasonal availability, usually from April to November).
• Single picnic table and an established fire ring for outdoor cooking and warmth.
• Spacious driveway (140ft x 100ft) capable of accommodating side-by-side parking.
• Permit-based camping allowing for stays of up to seven consecutive nights.
• Pet-friendly environment, provided animals are kept under control and attended.
• Proximity to the Mid State Trail, offering world-class hiking right from the vicinity.

The features and highlights of Site #3 make it a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most frequently mentioned highlights is the incredible view of the State College town lights in the distance, contrasted against the dark, peaceful silhouetted ridges. The site also offers a beautiful walk from the camp to a nearby dam, providing a picturesque spot for reflection or photography. Because the forest is managed for multiple uses, the area around Pine Swamp Road is also a prime location for bird watching and observing native Pennsylvania wildlife, including white-tailed deer and the occasional black bear.

• Exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the lack of local light pollution.
• Immediate access to the Mid State Trail, Pennsylvania’s longest and most diverse hiking path.
• Large, level site area suitable for group gatherings of up to 10 people (permits required).
• Dense tree cover providing partial shade and a sense of deep-woods privacy.
• Nearby vistas offering panoramic views of the "Happy Valley" region.
• Safe environment for kids to explore the natural world under supervision.
• Close proximity to Bear Meadows Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark.

For more information or to speak with a ranger regarding current forest conditions and fire safety alerts, the Rothrock State Forest District Office is the primary point of contact. Remember that campfire permissions can change daily based on the fire danger index, especially during the spring months.

Address: Pine Swamp Rd, Petersburg, PA 16669, USA

Phone: (814) 643-2340

What makes Rothrock State Forest Campsite #3 worth choosing is the sheer sense of freedom it provides. For a Pennsylvania local, it represents the best of our state’s "wild" side—no modern distractions, just the wind in the trees and a clear view of the stars. It is worth choosing because it provides a level of solitude that is impossible to find at traditional campgrounds. The ability to park your vehicle right at the site while still feeling completely immersed in a primitive environment is a rare convenience. Whether you are a seasoned backpacker looking for a "luxury" night with a cooler in the trunk, or a family wanting to introduce your children to the beauty of the Mid State Trail, Site #3 offers a peaceful, safe, and breathtakingly beautiful setting. It is a reminder of why we love the Pennsylvania outdoors: rugged, quiet, and completely revitalizing.