5 Mile Meadow Road - Entry

- Five mile Mdw Rd, Milford, PA 18337

For seasoned campers and adventurers across Pennsylvania, the search for truly 'off-the-beaten-path' experiences often leads away from crowded commercial campgrounds and into the heart of our state's public lands. The Five Mile Meadow Road Entry near Milford, PA, is precisely one such destination—less a formal campground and more a discreet access point to the vast, wild beauty of the Delaware State Forest region. This area is celebrated by local users for offering a genuinely primitive and secluded camping experience, a stark contrast to the amenity-heavy parks often found closer to urban centers. It embodies the essence of self-sufficient camping, where the primary attraction is the undisturbed natural environment.

Located just a short distance from the charming village of Milford, this entry point is a favorite among those who seek solitude, quietude, and a close connection to the natural landscape. The mention of this location being "Off the beaten path," as noted by fellow adventurers, perfectly captures its spirit. Here, camping often means finding a designated, primitive spot along a gravel road system, complete with a fire ring and a picnic table, offering a simple yet profound outdoor retreat. It is a vital access point for exploring the extensive trail networks and forest roads that crisscross the area, appealing particularly to cyclists, hikers, and those with self-contained RVs or Class B vans looking for a temporary, secluded home base. Visitors should approach this area with a deep commitment to 'Leave No Trace' principles, as the minimalist infrastructure relies entirely on responsible stewardship to maintain its unspoiled character. This location stands as a testament to the wild, accessible spaces that make Pennsylvania a premier destination for true outdoor enthusiasts.

The Five Mile Meadow Road Entry is strategically located near Milford, in Pike County, Pennsylvania.

The address is: Five mile Mdw Rd, Milford, PA 18337, USA.

Crucially, the 'Entry' refers to a specific access point, often leading to designated primitive campsites that are managed under the regulations of the surrounding public lands, frequently the Delaware State Forest or the periphery of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Accessibility is typically via well-maintained but unpaved, gravel forest roads, making it suitable for standard vehicles but advising caution during or immediately after heavy rain or snowmelt. The location's primary appeal is its seclusion, and users should expect a significant degree of remoteness, especially regarding cell service and immediate access to modern conveniences.

This access point is not a typical park entrance with a ranger station. Instead, it serves as a jumping-off point for a dispersed camping experience. It connects to an extensive network of trails and roads, including the Flat Ridge Road and other trails, making it a hub for mountain bikers and gravel cyclists exploring the diverse terrain of the Poconos foothills. Its proximity to I-84 is a notable advantage for local Pennsylvania travelers seeking a quick and easy transition from highway driving to deep-woods camping. Visitors are strongly advised to consult relevant state forest maps and obtain any necessary permits via the appropriate local or state forest department websites before arrival, as camping regulations can vary and change.

As a primitive, 'off-the-beaten-path' location, the focus of Five Mile Meadow Road is on providing a basic infrastructure that supports wilderness camping while maintaining the integrity of the forest. Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

• Designated Primitive Campsites: Marked clearings for camping, often available on a first-come, first-served basis (check for potential permit requirements).
• Fire Rings: Basic, stone or metal fire rings are typically present at the designated sites for safe campfires (use only dead and down wood, and always observe local fire regulations).
• Picnic Tables: Most sites include a single wooden picnic table to enhance the outdoor dining experience.
• Vehicle Access: Limited, informal parking is generally available adjacent to the individual primitive sites, allowing for car or small RV camping.
• Absence of Utilities: There is no running water, no electric hookups, and no formal restroom facilities (Pack In, Pack Out is strictly enforced for all waste, including human and pet waste, which must be managed according to wilderness guidelines).

The true value of Five Mile Meadow Road lies in its natural features and the low-impact activities it supports.

• Ultimate Seclusion: Living up to its "off the beaten path" reputation, the area offers remarkable quiet and privacy, ideal for those looking to truly unplug and escape noise pollution.
• Gravel Cycling and Mountain Biking Hub: The network of smooth gravel and rugged dirt roads, including Five Mile Meadow Road itself, connects to extensive forest trails, making it a prime spot for cyclists.
• Proximity to Attractions: It offers convenient access to the natural wonders of the region, including the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the McDade Recreational Trail, and local waterfalls like Raymondskill Falls and Dingmans Falls.
• Free or Low-Cost Camping: As a primitive location, camping here is often free or involves a minimal permit fee (users must verify current regulations and requirements before setting up camp).
• Hunting and Fishing Access: The surrounding State Forest and nearby Delaware River provide excellent opportunities for seasonal hunting and year-round fishing, adhering to all Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Game Commission regulations.
• Wildlife and Nature Photography: The dense, lush forest environment provides excellent opportunities for observing native wildlife and capturing the scenic beauty of the northern Poconos.

Given its location on State Forest land, the primary administrative contact is typically the relevant District Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

Administrative Address (DCNR - Delaware State Forest District Office): Delaware State Forest 2174 Route 6 & 209 Milford, PA 18337 (Note: This is the administrative office for permit and regulation inquiries, not the physical campsite location.)

Phone (DCNR - Delaware State Forest District Office): For general information, camping permits, and current road/trail conditions, contact the District Office. (Users should search for the most current phone number for the Delaware State Forest District Office).

Emergency Information: Since cell reception can be spotty in this remote area, campers should have an emergency plan and know the park's general emergency contact number. Always inform someone of your itinerary before entering the backcountry.

For Pennsylvania residents, the Five Mile Meadow Road Entry is a quintessential local escape. It offers a genuine, no-frills wilderness experience without the hassle or expense of distant travel. This location is particularly suitable for locals who value self-reliance, enjoy mountain or gravel biking, or simply crave the quiet isolation of the woods. It is an ideal spot for those who have perfected their primitive camping setups and want to test their skills in an accessible but untamed environment.

It serves as a perfect stepping stone into the vast recreational resources of the Delaware State Forest and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, all while remaining close enough for a weekend trip. The feeling of being "Off the beaten path," as described by others, is the main draw—a chance to leave the noise and commercialism behind, right here in the beautiful Poconos region of Pennsylvania. By utilizing and respecting this resource, local users help preserve one of the finest primitive camping and trail access points the Commonwealth has to offer.

5 Mile Meadow Road - Entry

Five mile Mdw Rd, Milford, PA 18337, USA