Weiser State Forest (Haldeman Tract) Campsite H1

For Pennsylvania residents seeking a true departure from the structured environments of commercial RV resorts, the Weiser State Forest Haldeman Tract offers a rare opportunity to connect with the raw, untamed beauty of the Commonwealth. Specifically, Campsite H1 stands as one of the most sought-after primitive motorized roadside sites in the region. Located just outside of Elizabethville in northern Dauphin County, this site is part of a 5,355-acre expanse known for its high ridges, deep valleys, and extensive trail networks. Unlike modern campgrounds that feature paved pads and neon lights, H1 provides a quiet, forested sanctuary where the primary soundtrack is the rustle of mountain laurel and the distant calls of native wildlife.

Campsite H1 is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and is designed for the "motorized camper"—a term used by the state to describe those who use their vehicle for storage or transportation but desire a singular, remote site rather than a crowded loop. This specific tract, named after Pennsylvania Congressman Richard J. Haldeman, sits atop Broad Mountain and is a favorite for local outdoorsmen who appreciate the "Leave No Trace" lifestyle. Because it is a singular site, visitors to H1 enjoy a level of solitude that is difficult to find elsewhere in the state, making it an ideal retreat for those who wish to experience the forest as it has existed for generations.

Location and accessibility are important factors for those planning a trip to this part of Weiser State Forest. The Haldeman Tract is situated northeast of Harrisburg and is most easily accessed via Route 225 or Route 147. Campsite H1 itself is positioned along White Oak Road, a gravel forest service road that winds through the heart of the tract. While the road is well-maintained enough for standard vehicles and small to mid-sized RVs, the terrain can be steep and rocky, requiring a slow and cautious approach. It is important to note that because this is a primitive site, there are no modern facilities or running water at the site itself. Visitors should arrive fully self-sufficient, prepared for a backcountry experience that rewards preparation with unparalleled peace and quiet.

• Motorized roadside camping for a single vehicle or small camping unit.
• Reserved camping through the PA State Parks and Forests online system.
• Clear, designated parking pad to protect the surrounding forest floor.
• Picnic table provided for outdoor dining and gear organization.
• Fire ring for contained, safe campfires (subject to seasonal fire bans).
• Access to over 33 miles of shared-use trails for multi-day exploration.
• Pet-friendly environment, allowing dogs to join the adventure on a leash.
• On-site parking that allows you to keep your vehicle within reach of your tent or rig.
• Proximity to the Minnich’s Hit Picnic Area for access to pit toilets and basic facilities.
• Permission for primitive wood gathering (dead and down wood only).

The features and highlights of the Haldeman Tract go far beyond the campsite itself. For many, the draw of Site H1 is its proximity to the diverse recreational opportunities that only a state forest can provide. The tract is a regional hub for hang gliding, with a world-class launch site located at the end of Wolf Pond Road, offering breathtaking vistas of the Susquehanna River Valley. Additionally, the area is renowned for its equestrian trails and hiking paths, such as the Split Rock Trail, which includes sections designed to be accessible. For the local Pennsylvania hunter or fisherman, the forest provides thousands of acres of public land to explore during the appropriate seasons.

• Spectacular mountain vistas and overlooks within hiking distance of the site.
• Hang gliding launch site nearby for watching or participating in mountain flights.
• Extensive network of mountain biking trails ranging from level roads to rocky descents.
• High-altitude forest environment that stays cooler than the valleys during PA summers.
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various birds of prey.
• Historical significance as part of Pennsylvania's original forest conservation efforts.
• Gravel-based site surfaces designed to manage drainage during the Northeast’s rainy seasons.
• Quiet hours enforced by the naturally remote spacing of the forest sites.
• Access to the Mud Run Equine Camping Area for those traveling with horses.
• Seasonal snowmobiling and cross-country skiing trails accessible directly from forest roads.

To secure a stay at Weiser State Forest Haldeman Tract Campsite H1, campers must obtain a permit in advance. Since this is a state-managed resource, permits for motorized camping are required and can be reserved through the official DCNR portal. It is recommended to check the fire danger ratings before your arrival, as Pennsylvania forest districts may implement temporary bans on campfires during dry spring or fall months.

Address: White Oak Road (G6GJ+F5), Elizabethville, PA 17032, USA

Phone: (570) 875-6450 (Weiser District Office)

What makes Campsite H1 worth choosing is the uncompromising sense of freedom it offers. In a world of digital connectivity and scheduled activities, H1 provides a "reset button" for the soul. It is worth choosing for the local Pennsylvanian who wants to test their camping skills in an environment where self-reliance is the standard. You aren't just renting a patch of grass; you are gaining access to a 30,000-acre backyard filled with geological wonders and historic trails. The site serves as a perfect middle ground—remote enough to feel like a wilderness adventure, but accessible enough that you can still have your vehicle nearby for safety and storage.

Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness and conservation-minded management of the Weiser State Forest make it a sustainable choice for frequent campers. By choosing a designated site like H1, you are participating in the protection of Pennsylvania’s natural resources, ensuring that the Broad Mountain ecosystem remains healthy for future generations. Whether you are an avid hiker looking to conquer the rocky ridges of the Haldeman Tract, or a photographer waiting for the perfect light to hit the Susquehanna at sunrise, Campsite H1 serves as the ultimate basecamp for an authentic, no-frills Pennsylvania outdoor experience.