State Forest Campsite #S006

State Forest Campsite #S006 is a designated primitive camping location situated within the expansive Delaware State Forest in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. This site is part of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) network of motorized roadside campsites, offering a raw and authentic outdoor experience. Unlike modern RV resorts or developed state park campgrounds, Campsite #S006 is designed for those who appreciate the simplicity of the wilderness. It serves as a quiet retreat for Pennsylvania residents looking to escape the hustle of daily life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Poconos. The site provides a unique middle ground between backcountry backpacking and traditional car camping, allowing visitors to keep their vehicle nearby for storage while enjoying a secluded, forested environment.

The Delaware State Forest itself is a massive tract of public land known for its glacial lakes, dense hardwood forests, and diverse wildlife. Campsite #S006 is one of the limited spots available for those who prefer the "roadside" style of camping, where a permit grants you a specific piece of the forest to call your own for the night. Because it is a primitive site, it appeals most to self-sufficient outdoorspeople who come prepared with their own water, waste management solutions, and gear. The atmosphere is one of profound stillness, broken only by the sounds of the local fauna and the rustle of the trees. It is a place where you can truly "unplug," as cell service is often unreliable, and modern distractions are replaced by the soft glow of a campfire and the clarity of the night sky.

For many local campers, this site is a cherished jumping-off point for multi-day adventures. Whether you are using it as a basecamp for long-distance hiking or simply as a quiet spot to rest during a scenic driving tour of the Poconos, the site reflects the DCNR's mission to provide low-density, primitive recreation opportunities. While it offers fewer amenities than commercial parks, the trade-off is an unparalleled sense of freedom and a closer connection to the Pennsylvania landscape. It is a reminder of the rugged beauty that defines the Keystone State’s northeastern corridor, attracting those who find comfort in the crackle of woodsmoke and the silence of the woods.

State Forest Campsite #S006 is located directly along PA-402 in East Stroudsburg, PA 18328. This location makes it highly accessible for those traveling through Monroe and Pike Counties. While its proximity to a state road makes it easy to find, it is important for visitors to note that the site is located in a natural forest setting, and access is subject to current weather and road conditions.

• Located on the PA-402 corridor, providing a direct link to the town of East Stroudsburg and the Interstate 84 interchange.
• Easily accessible by standard passenger vehicles, though the driveway and pad consist of dirt or gravel surfaces.
• Proximity to various trailheads within the Delaware State Forest, including those that lead to scenic overlooks and hidden bogs.
• Situating the camp on PA-402 allows for quick access to local supply stores in East Stroudsburg for groceries and fuel.
• Note: Being a roadside site, there may be audible road noise from passing traffic on PA-402, which is a consideration for those seeking absolute silence.
• Winter access is not guaranteed, as forest roads and site pull-offs do not receive regular snow plowing or ice maintenance.

The services at State Forest Campsite #S006 are intentionally minimal to preserve the primitive character of state forest camping. Visitors are expected to follow "Leave No Trace" principles, as the site does not offer the typical facilities found in more developed parks. The DCNR provides the space and the legal framework for a safe stay, but the logistical heavy lifting is left to the camper.

• Motorized roadside camping permits are available through the Pennsylvania state parks and forests reservation system.
• A designated camping pad is provided to ensure that vehicles and tents stay on durable surfaces, protecting the surrounding flora.
• The site includes a standard fire ring for contained and safe campfires, subject to seasonal fire bans and safety regulations.
• On-site parking for up to two vehicles is permitted, provided they fit within the designated parking area.
• Regular patrols by DCNR Forest Rangers help maintain the safety and integrity of the public forest lands.
• Permit holders have legal authorization to occupy the site for up to seven consecutive nights, providing a stable home base for a week-long excursion.

The highlights of Campsite #S006 center on its integration with the local ecosystem. For hikers and naturalists, the site offers immediate access to the diverse habitats of the Poconos. It is an "everything-you-need, nothing-you-don't" destination that highlights the best of Pennsylvania's public land management.

• Direct access to extensive hiking trails that wind through the Delaware State Forest, perfect for day trips or nature photography.
• Opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing, as the forest is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, and various migratory birds.
• The presence of a sturdy picnic table provides a central location for meal prep and social interaction under the canopy.
• The site features a dirt tent pad, offering a relatively level and cleared area for setting up camp.
• Partial shade provided by mature hardwood trees, offering relief during the warm Pennsylvania summer months.
• Close proximity to the glacial lakes and unique bogs that make the Delaware State Forest a distinctive ecological destination.

Prospective campers must secure a permit before arriving at the site. Because these sites are in high demand during the peak summer and fall foliage seasons, it is recommended to book well in advance through the official state reservation portal.

Address: PA-402, East Stroudsburg, PA 18328, USA

Phone: For general inquiries or to speak with a ranger, you may contact the Delaware State Forest District Office at (570) 895-4000. For reservations, utilize the 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) toll-free number.

State Forest Campsite #S006 is worth choosing if you are a camper who values autonomy and direct access to the great outdoors. While some may find the proximity to PA-402 a drawback due to traffic noise, it is an ideal choice for those who want a "quick in, quick out" camping experience. It eliminates the need for long, complex navigation through deep forest roads while still providing a private, wooded lot that far exceeds the privacy of a crowded commercial campground.

Furthermore, this site is an excellent value for those looking for a low-cost way to explore the Poconos. By choosing a state forest site, you are supporting the conservation of Pennsylvania's natural resources while enjoying a high-quality hiking environment. If you are prepared to bring your own water and pack out your trash, #S006 offers a refreshing, unpretentious way to experience the woods. It is the perfect spot for a solo hiker looking for a safe place to sleep or a couple seeking a rustic weekend adventure without the frills. For the authentic Pennsylvania camper, the simplicity of a fire ring, a picnic table, and the surrounding forest is more than enough to make a trip memorable.