Sproul State Forest
00 review15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, Pennsylvania, 17764, United States
Sproul State Forest
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Campsite permits are $35 and must be retained as proof during occupancy. Transfer or re-assignment voids the permit.
About this campground
Escape into Pennsylvania's vast wilderness at Sproul State Forest, where 305,450 acres of untamed beauty await your discovery. This expansive forest sanctuary invites adventurous souls seeking solitude and connection with nature through its unique dispersed camping experience. Designated roadside campsites dot the landscape, offering motorized travelers the perfect basecamp for exploring one of the largest contiguous wild areas in the state.
Sproul State Forest caters to motorized unit camping with remote, roadside campsites. Tent camping is explicitly prohibited, and other types of accommodations such as cabins or glamping are not offered.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living monument to conservation named for Governor William C. Sproul, whose vision helped preserve this natural treasure for future generations. These ancient forests tell a story of resilience and renewal, rising from the ashes of 19th-century deforestation that once stripped Pennsylvania bare. Today, Sproul State Forest stands as a testament to the power of conservation, where century-old trees grow where stumps once dominated the landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of Pennsylvania's seasons in this mountain wilderness. Winter transforms the forest into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge below freezing, creating a serene landscape perfect for cold-weather camping enthusiasts. As spring awakens the forest floor, summer arrives with comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and stream exploration. Each season paints the forest in new colors, with precipitation patterns shifting throughout the year and occasional snow dusting the ridges well into spring.
ElevationThe forest's varied topography creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems throughout its expansive territory, offering camping experiences at different elevations across the rugged terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of mixed-oak forests that cascade down steep ridges and shelter crystal-clear mountain streams. These pristine waters serve as nurseries for native brook trout, their presence a testament to the forest's ecological health. Officially recognized as an Important Bird Area, the canopy above resonates with the songs of countless species, making this a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers seeking to capture Pennsylvania's wild heart.
Geological RegionPerched atop the ancient Allegheny Plateau in Northcentral Pennsylvania, Sproul State Forest showcases nature's architectural mastery. Expansive ridges crowned with mixed-oak forests stretch to the horizon, their roots anchored in geological history millions of years in the making. As part of the greater Susquehanna watershed, the forest's streams and springs feed into one of America's oldest river systems, connecting campers to a vast aquatic network that has shaped the region for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit accessibility features are mentioned in either the authoritative or user-generated content.
Sites SizeNo specific information on campsite sizes is provided in the authoritative content or reviews.
Sites PrivacyThe remote nature of the designated campsites suggests some level of privacy, but explicit details are unavailable.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRemote sites suited for motorized units; avoid obstructing gates or roads.
Best CampsitesSites identified by signpost; tent camping prohibited.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly listed.
Check-out
Not explicitly listed.
Stay Limit
Limit of 7 continuous days of camping. Camping cannot be resumed until 48 hours have passed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
At least one occupant must be 18 or older.
Groups
Information about group sites is not available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNo loops or sections; sites are dispersed and remote.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with fire prohibitions in effect March 1st through May 25th unless authorized.
Reservation PlatformsReservations handled via DCNR website.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability not explicitly confirmed. Sites are remote and identified by signpost.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation voids permit. Violations of conditions may result in citation or revocation.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sproul State Forest offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, kayaking, mountain biking, stargazing, and cross-country skiing during winter. The forest’s expansive trails cater to various preferences and skill levels, with notable trails like the Chuck Keiper and Donut Hole Trails. Scenic vistas and clear cool streams provide opportunities for native brook trout fishing and wildlife observation.
Hiking
Sproul State Forest features 50-mile Chuck Keiper and 90-mile Donut Hole Trails designed for foot traffic. The Eagleton Mine Camp Trail is popular for mountain biking and hiking. User reviews highlight plentiful hiking trails and beautiful vistas. One user specifically praised the Mid State Trail.Fishing
Fishing is highly recommended, with the clear, cool streams supporting native brook trout. User reviews confirm rewarding fishing opportunities, with one stating, 'Great vista elk native fishing.'Biking
Trails, such as the Eagleton Mine Camp Trail, cater to mountain biking enthusiasts. User reviews also confirm biking as an activity within the forest.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are available from state forest access points. A user review emphasized the enjoyment of kayaking.Wildlife viewing
The forest supports abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, bear, and turkey. User reviews highlight the diversity of wildlife, with one noting, 'All of PA's wildlife can be found here.'Winter Activities
The Hiding Bear Trail is popular for cross-country skiing during winter months. Snowmobiling is also available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available, as mentioned by authoritative content and user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires prohibited March 1-May 25 without District Forester authorization.
- Quiet hours are Generators that create excessive noise are prohibited; disorderly conduct is disallowed.
Hazards
General hazardsRemote area with risks including wildfire potential, wildlife encounters, and minimal facilities.
Active alertsFire restrictions March 1-May 25 annually.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
District Forester contact available at 5709236011; nearest hospital specifics are not included.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly listed.
Trash and recyclingGarbage, waste, and rubbish must be removed from the site and properly disposed of, per authoritative permit conditions.
Proximity to water featuresClear, cool streams providing habitat for native brook trout.
Common complaintsMinimal cell service and no TV access noted in reviews.
HostManaged by Sproul Forest District Forester; contact at 5709236011.
Campground Map
15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, Pennsylvania, 17764, United States
Driving directionsFrom US-220 take Exit 111 and follow PA-120W for approximately 32 miles. The Sproul State Forest Resource Management Center is located just outside Renovo at 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, PA 17764.
Access via PA-120W is available, but the area is rugged and roads are managed minimally throughout the forest.Nearby places
Renovo (closest city), nearby population centers not explicitly listed.
Nearby supplies
Fuel and supplies are available within the forest area
specifics regarding proximity not included.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sproul State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the forest’s natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and kayaking.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the forest’s hiking trails, wildlife diversity, scenic vistas, and suitability for hunting and fishing. One user noted, 'My ABSOLUTE favorite place to be. Beautiful scenery.'
Common Concerns
Limited amenities and cell phone reception are noted. One user stated, 'Good place to get away, no TV, little cell phone service.' Another mentioned the challenging nature of some trails.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest enjoying the night sky and wildlife viewing. 'Leave no trace' is emphasized.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during winter months. Fall foliage viewing is popular during autumn.
Camper Quotes
1. 'For over 50 years, I belong to a hunting and fishing cabin located in God’s country called Sproul State Forest!! Beautiful!!' – John McClintock
2. 'Love it here. All of PA's wildlife can be found...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews are available.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, provided they are controlled. One user mentioned positive experiences related to camping with pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025