047 Red Ridge Road, New Lancaster Valley, Milroy, PA

Introduction / Overview: Campsite 047—A True Taste of Central PA Seclusion

For Pennsylvania residents looking to trade the noise of the suburbs for the quiet rustle of the State Forest, Campsite 047 on Red Ridge Road in the New Lancaster Valley area near Milroy, PA, is a celebrated find. This is not a typical developed campground with rows of RVs and bathhouses; rather, it is a designated, roadside primitive campsite—one of many unique, reservable spots managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) within the vast state forest system.

Campsite 047 is prized by local campers for its excellent balance of accessibility and seclusion. Tucked approximately 450 feet off the main forest road, it offers a degree of privacy often absent from more conventional camping areas. The site sits atop a ridge, offering the cool shade of the surrounding forest while also boasting a separate, sunny clearing perfect for warming up or drying gear. It is a highly sought-after location, frequently booked by those who value a clean, maintained, and genuinely quiet basecamp for exploring Central Pennsylvania's magnificent wilderness. The entire experience promotes a "pack it in, pack it out" ethos, ensuring the environment remains pristine for all users.

Location and Accessibility: High on the Ridge in New Lancaster Valley

Campsite 047 is strategically located within the scenic and ecologically rich region known as the New Lancaster Valley, an area historically associated with the vast, contiguous State Forest lands, likely a section of the Rothrock State Forest system which covers parts of Mifflin County. The address provided places it deep within the heart of this majestic woodland.

The site’s position "on the top of the ridge as the road goes up over and down the mountain" ensures not only a refreshing elevation but also prime access to ridge-top views. While it is accessible via the forest road, the reviewer notes that the campsite itself is set back about 450 feet—a feature that enhances privacy by shielding campers from the rare traffic on the forest road.

Access to Campsite 047 typically involves driving on improved dirt and gravel state forest roads, which are generally well-maintained but can become challenging during periods of heavy rain, snow, or thaw. Campers should always consult the relevant State Forest District Office for current road and weather alerts before beginning their journey to Milroy, PA. The proximity to the small town of Milroy (Milroy, PA 17063) ensures that final supply runs are quick and easy before heading into the solitude of the ridge.

Services Offered (Designed for Motorized, Roadside Camping)

As a designated motorized, roadside campsite within the State Forest, Campsite 047 provides essential, but not elaborate, features to facilitate an enjoyable, low-impact stay. Users must be prepared for a primitive experience with no utility hookups.

Designated Parking: Adequate space is available for at least two vehicles, with the benefit of the site being set back from the main road.
Defined Camping Area: Plenty of room is available for multiple tents and equipment, with shaded areas available throughout the day.
Fire Management: A durable, established fire pit is provided for safe and responsible campfires. Note: State Forest rules strictly prohibit fires between March 1st and May 25th unless authorized, or when fire danger is high.
Picnic Furniture: A sturdy picnic table is on-site for cooking prep, eating, and gathering.
Lantern Hanger: A useful feature for hanging lanterns to provide elevated lighting around the site, as noted by a past visitor.
Sanitation: No modern restrooms, flush toilets, or running water. Campers must be fully self-contained. Human waste disposal must follow Leave No Trace principles (e.g., digging a cathole 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites), and all trash must be carried out.
Permit Requirement: A valid camping permit, obtained through the DCNR/State Parks reservation system, is required for all stays. This is crucial for all motorized, roadside camping in Pennsylvania State Forests.

Features / Highlights (A True Forest Escape)

The exceptional features of Campsite 047 are rooted in its location and the quality of the primitive amenities provided.

Treaster-Havice Vista Access: A major highlight is the very short walk from the campsite to the stunning Treaster-Havice Vista, offering panoramic views of the valley—a perfect sunrise or sunset spot.
Exceptional Privacy: The 450-foot setback from Red Ridge Road ensures a high level of quiet and seclusion, making it ideal for those who truly want to disconnect.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: The site has been consistently noted by users for being clean and well-maintained, a testament to both the forest management and the respectful nature of the local users.
Shade and Sun Balance: The layout offers a mix of shady tent areas for cool sleeping and a separate, sunny clearing, allowing campers to choose their preferred environment or dry out gear after rain.
Direct Trail Access: A short, informal trail leads directly from the campsite, providing an immediate entryway into the wider State Forest trail network for hiking and exploration.
Popularity as a Booking Signal: The high booking frequency indicates that this specific site is recognized by local, experienced campers as one of the best available roadside sites in the region.

Contact Information

The administration and reservation for Campsite 047 on Red Ridge Road fall under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), generally managed by the local State Forest District Office.

For reservations, which are mandatory for this motorized campsite, and for current rules, fees, and alerts, prospective visitors should use the statewide booking system and contact the managing Forest District Office.

Address: Milroy, PA 17063, USA (General Area)

Reservation Phone: (888) 727-2757 (888-PA-PARKS) — For DCNR Statewide Reservations

Administrative Phone (Local Forest District): The number provided, (570) 922-3344, is likely the direct line for the managing Forest District Office (e.g., Rothrock State Forest District Office) for general inquiries about the area.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Campsite 047 on Red Ridge Road is perfectly suited for experienced Pennsylvania campers, particularly those who live in the Central PA region. Its suitability stems from its authenticity as a true State Forest camping experience. For locals, this site offers:

1. A Genuine Disconnect: Unlike commercial campgrounds, this site guarantees a profound sense of peace and quiet, essential for a refreshing weekend escape from the daily grind. The required permit system ensures responsible use, maintaining the quality of the environment.

2. Unbeatable Value and Accessibility: As a designated State Forest site, it provides a high-quality, secluded camping experience at a minimal fee compared to full-service parks, making the PA wilderness accessible to every local. The ability to pull up near the site is convenient for unloading gear, while the setback preserves the primitive feel.

3. Direct Access to Iconic PA Vistas: The short walk to the Treaster-Havice Vista adds a significant reward to the experience, offering local residents a beautiful, memorable view without having to embark on a lengthy, multi-day backpacking trip.

For the Pennsylvania resident, Campsite 047 is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a celebrated, clean, and easily reservable gateway to the rugged beauty of the State Forests, offering a prime secluded spot for reflection, nature photography, hiking, and simple, unspoiled enjoyment of the state’s natural resources. Its high popularity among locals confirms its status as a premier spot for true wilderness camping in the Milroy area.