Buchanan State Forest
00 review25185 Great Cove Road, McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, 17233, United States
Buchanan State Forest
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$7.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping permits cost $7 per night and are required for all campsites.
About this campground
Escape into the untamed wilderness of Buchanan State Forest, where 72,286 acres of pristine Pennsylvania backcountry await your discovery. Here, remote and primitive campsites offer the ultimate retreat for adventurers craving genuine solitude. Far from the crowds and chaos of modern life, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where nature still reigns supreme, and the only sounds breaking the silence are rustling leaves and distant bird calls.
Buchanan State Forest provides primitive, dispersed camping sites. There are no centralized camping facilities or developed campgrounds.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this forest bearing the name of James Buchanan, America's fifteenth President and Pennsylvania's only commander-in-chief. Along Oregon Road, discover the weathered remnants of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp, where young men once labored during the Great Depression to shape these woodlands into the recreational haven you see today. These silent stone foundations tell stories of determination and conservation that echo through the decades.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the forest's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. When winter blankets the ridges in snow, the trails come alive with the exhilarating buzz of snowmobiles carving through powder-white paths. As warmth returns, summer transforms the forest into an ATV rider's paradise, with miles of trails winding through sun-dappled canopies. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and crisp, clear days perfect for exploration, while autumn paints the oak-covered ridges in brilliant golds and crimsons under pristine blue skies.
ElevationFrom valley floors at 420 feet to soaring ridgetops reaching 2,700 feet, the forest's dramatic elevation changes create a diverse tapestry of ecosystems and breathtaking vantage points that reward hikers with panoramic views of Pennsylvania's ridge and valley country.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic mixed oak woodlands crown the ridges of southcentral Pennsylvania, creating a canopy cathedral that changes with each season. Venture into the enchanted realms of Sweet Root and Pine Ridge Natural Areas, where ancient trees stand sentinel over carpets of emerald ferns. In the pristine Martin Hill Wild Area, crystal-clear mountain brooks tumble over moss-covered rocks beneath towering pines, creating scenes of such raw beauty that time seems to stand still.
Geological RegionStraddling the dramatic ridge and valley region of southern Pennsylvania, these verdant woodlands cascade across mountain slopes from 420 to 2,700 feet above sea level. The forest serves as a vital green corridor between the mighty Susquehanna and Potomac Watersheds, where countless scenic streams have carved their stories into the landscape over millennia. Here, the ancient Appalachian geology creates a stunning backdrop of folded ridges and fertile valleys that have captivated visitors for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information is provided about accommodations for campers with disabilities; some picnic areas may be accessible by vehicle, but no explicit accessibility features are detailed.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as singular, remote, and dispersed throughout the forest.
Sites PrivacySites are remote and primitive, offering a high degree of privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRemote sites cater to those seeking solitude. Some require walk-in access.
Best CampsitesMost campsites are remote and dispersed; specific site recommendations are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Any time on the reservation date.
Check-out
By the end of the reservation date.
Stay Limit
Limit of 7 continuous days of camping on state forest land.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupants shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned, and no specific group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are singular, remote sites dispersed throughout the forest.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping is allowed year-round, but campfires are prohibited from March 1st through May 25th without authorization due to fire danger.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Buchanan State Forest website.
Walk-in AvailabilityMost campsites are remote and dispersed, indicating first-come-first-serve availability may be limited.
Cancellation PolicyThe permit is null and void if the reservation is canceled or transferred prior to the date of arrival.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Buchanan State Forest offers a range of outdoor activities including over 200 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and more. Seasonal activities like snowmobiling and ATV riding provide opportunities for recreation year-round.
Hiking
The forest contains over 200 miles of hiking trails, including portions of the Mid-State Trail, Tuscarora Trail, and Standing Stone Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and provide access to scenic and natural features.Fishing
Fishing is available in designated areas such as the Bear Valley Picnic Area; specifics on fish types or water quality are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an available activity, but no details regarding specific trails, terrain, or difficulty levels are provided.Wildlife viewing
The forest offers opportunities to view a variety of wildlife and wildflowers in their natural habitats.Cultural and Educational Programs
Historical and interpretive trails are available, including one at the site of the former Civilian Conservation Corps Camp. These trails provide maps, photos, and historical information.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling is noted as a popular winter activity on designated trails.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted under strict conditions but prohibited from March 1st to May 25th without authorization.
- Quiet hours are Disorderly conduct and generators creating excessive noise are prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, fire risks during dry seasons, and the need for self-contained toilets in remote areas.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations are located in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. Contact information for emergencies includes the Ranger Station at 717-485-3148.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to remove their waste from the site and dispose of it properly. Littering is prohibited.
Proximity to water featuresClose to scenic streams and mountain brooks.
Common complaintsLack of amenities and primitive nature of campsites might deter some campers.
HostHost information is not provided in the authoritative content.
Campground Map
25185 Great Cove Road, McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, 17233, United States
Driving directionsFrom Route 30: Turn north onto US 522 for about 5 miles. The entrance to the Resource Management Center (RMC) is on your left. From PA Turnpike Exit 180: Turn south onto US Route 522 for about 3.5 miles to reach the RMC entrance.
Roads leading to Buchanan State Forest are paved and accessible year-round. The directions provided include major highways such as Route 30 and US Route 522. Navigation challenges are minimal.Nearby places
McConnellsburg (0 miles), Bedford (approximately 25 miles), Franklin (approximately 18 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in McConnellsburg, which is the nearest town to the campground.
Camper Reviews
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Common Concerns
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Seasonal Insights
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025