State Forest Campsite #S001

For those who find their peace in the deep woods of Pennsylvania, State Forest Campsite #S001 offers a quintessential "back-to-basics" experience. Located within the sprawling 84,000-acre Delaware State Forest in Monroe County, this specific site is part of the state’s motorized roadside camping program. Unlike highly developed commercial campgrounds with bustling activity and bright lights, Campsite #S001 is designed for the true minimalist. It provides a secluded sanctuary where the sounds of the Poconos' natural ecosystems replace the hum of electronics. This site is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and is dedicated to preserving the low-density, primitive recreation that defines the state forest system.

The "S" in S001 denotes its location within the Snow Hill loop of the forest, an area famous for its glacial bogs, dense hardwood forests, and undulating terrain. Because the Delaware State Forest sits atop the Pocono Plateau, campers here can expect cooler evenings and exceptionally dark skies, making it a favorite spot for local amateur astronomers and those seeking total immersion in the wilderness. It is an ideal destination for families looking to teach children the principles of "Leave No Trace" or for small groups of friends who prefer a private forest clearing over a crowded RV park.

Location and accessibility are vital considerations for this primitive site. State Forest Campsite #S001 is located along Laurel Run Road in East Stroudsburg, PA 18326. Specifically, it sits approximately 2.8 miles north of PA-447 and about one mile south of Snow Hill Road. While the site is accessible by most standard highway vehicles, visitors should be aware that Laurel Run Road is a dirt and gravel state forest road. In the winter or after heavy Pennsylvania rains, 4WD or high-clearance vehicles are recommended, as forest roads are not maintained for snow or ice. The site is a "motorized" site, meaning you can drive your vehicle directly to the camping area, which serves as a major convenience for transporting gear and supplies.

Services offered at this state forest campsite are deliberately limited to maintain the primitive integrity of the forest. There are no modern hookups, electricity, or running water available on-site. However, the DCNR provides essential infrastructure to ensure a safe and organized stay. These services include:

• Online permit and reservation system through the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests portal.
• Dedicated fire ring with a grill to manage safe cooking and evening campfires.
• Standard wooden picnic table for food preparation and group dining.
• Maintenance of a level, gravel-topped area suitable for parking up to three standard vehicles.
• On-site signage clearly marking the site boundaries and permit requirements.
• Patrols by DCNR Rangers to ensure safety and compliance with forest regulations.
• Direct access to a network of shared-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

The features and highlights of Campsite #S001 make it one of the most desirable primitive spots in the East Stroudsburg area. Its physical layout is frequently praised by local campers for its versatility and spaciousness. Key highlights include:

• Ample flat ground that can easily accommodate multiple tents or two small campers/trailers up to 40 feet in length.
• A dense canopy of mature trees provides excellent shade and serves as a perfect anchor for hammocks.
• A generous site width of 40 feet and a length of 110 feet, offering more privacy than many traditional campgrounds.
• Proximity to the Thunder Swamp Trail and other glacial lake access points for daytime exploration.
• Pet-friendly regulations that allow dogs to join the camping trip, provided they are kept under control.
• A high degree of solitude, as designated state forest sites are spaced far apart to prevent noise overlap between campers.
• Close proximity to the Snow Hill picnic area and several remote glacial bogs unique to the Pocono region.

For those ready to secure their spot under the stars, contact information is handled through the Delaware State Forest district office. The physical address of the site is Laurel Run Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18326. For administrative questions or to verify current fire danger levels, you can call the District Office at (570) 895-4000. Reservations must be made in advance via the PA State Parks reservation website or by calling 888-PA-PARKS. Because S001 is a permit-only site, campers must have a physical or digital copy of their permit on person throughout their stay. Note that stays are limited to seven consecutive nights to allow other forest enthusiasts a chance to enjoy the location.

What is worth choosing about State Forest Campsite #S001 is the sheer sense of autonomy it provides. In an age of over-scheduled vacations, S001 offers a rare opportunity to "unplug" completely. For the price of a small permit fee, you effectively gain private ownership of a beautiful piece of Pennsylvania forest for the duration of your stay. The site’s ability to handle up to ten occupants makes it an incredibly cost-effective way for a large family or group of friends to enjoy the Poconos. Choosing S001 means choosing the rustle of leaves over the sound of a neighbor's television, the warmth of a real wood fire over a gas heater, and a clear view of the Milky Way that few other locations in Monroe County can match. For the prepared camper who brings their own water and packs out their own trash, it represents the gold standard of the Pennsylvania wilderness experience.