Delaware State Forest campsite #E013

- Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

For Pennsylvania residents looking to escape the hustle of city life and immerse themselves in true mountain wilderness, Delaware State Forest offers a rugged and rewarding camping opportunity. Campsite #E013 is one of the designated motorized campsites scattered across the vast 84,000-acre forest, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This is not your typical state park campground with modern bathhouses and manicured lawns; it is a true primitive, roadside site designed for self-sufficient campers who value solitude and vehicle accessibility.

Located deep within the Pocono Plateau, Campsite E013 provides a unique blend of convenience and isolation. "Motorized camping" means you can park your vehicle (including a tent, small RV, or trailer that fits the site) immediately adjacent to or very near your campsite, allowing for easier setup and access to supplies. However, visitors must understand that "primitive" means a lack of developed amenities like electric, water, or sewer hookups. E013 offers Pennsylvania locals an affordable, authentic woodland experience, making it the perfect basecamp for exploring the Delaware Water Gap region and the vast surrounding state forestlands. Reservations and a free permit are always required to utilize this site, ensuring an organized and responsible approach to enjoying our public lands.

Campsite E013 is strategically situated within the Delaware State Forest, near the charming, historic community of Dingmans Ferry in Pike County, Pennsylvania. This area is characterized by the rolling hills, glacial lakes, and dense hardwood forests of the Pocono Plateau.

The official access point and immediate vicinity of the campsite are located off a state forest road:

Address: Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA

Accessibility Details:

The campsite is categorized as a "motorized, roadside campsite," meaning it is accessible by most highway vehicles, often along dirt and gravel state forest roads. While the roads are maintained, drivers should expect rustic conditions, especially after heavy rain or during the transition seasons. The secluded nature of E013 ensures campers benefit from being able to unload directly at the site, yet are spaced far enough from neighboring sites to preserve a feeling of deep-woods privacy. The location puts campers in an excellent position to explore the forest's extensive network of hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails, including easy access to the scenic wonders of the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Always check forest road conditions with the district office before traveling, especially in non-summer months.

As a DCNR-managed primitive roadside site, Campsite E013 offers only the most essential amenities needed for responsible camping. Campers are expected to be fully prepared and self-sufficient, practicing 'Pack It In, Pack It Out' principles.

• Designated Parking: Space for at least one vehicle near the campsite for easy access to gear and shelter.
• Picnic Table: A simple wooden picnic table is provided at the site for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Ring: A steel fire ring is available for contained campfires. Campfires must be attended at all times and require specific authorization during the spring wildfire season (March 1st through May 25th).
• Waste Management (Carry-Out Policy): No trash services or dumpsters are provided directly at the site. All garbage, food scraps, and waste must be carried out of the forest by the camper.
• Water Source: No potable water is provided. Campers must bring all necessary drinking and cooking water, or be prepared to filter/purify water from natural sources away from the campsite.
• Sanitation: No developed restrooms or running water. Campers must follow Leave No Trace principles for human waste, burying solid waste in a cathole 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources, campsites, and trails, or using a self-contained toilet system.

Campsite E013 in the Delaware State Forest is a fantastic choice for those Pennsylvanians who find the biggest luxury is truly unplugging. Its key highlights center on its remote location and the natural environment:

• Maximum Seclusion: Unlike clustered private campgrounds, this site is deliberately separated from others, ensuring a peaceful, quiet experience where you are truly surrounded by the forest.
• Vehicle Access for Primitive Camping: The roadside nature of this site allows for bringing in extra gear (coolers, heavy tents, etc.) without having to backpack long distances, making it ideal for families or those with a lot of outdoor equipment who still want a primitive feel.
• Proximity to Natural Attractions: The forest is rich with glacial lakes, bogs, and scenic overlooks. The site is a short drive from the famous Dingmans Falls and Silver Lake, providing excellent daytime adventure options.
• Trail Access: Easy access to the vast trail system of the Delaware State Forest, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, hunting (in season, with proper permits), and nature study.
• Extended Stay Options: Reservations for motorized, roadside campsites allow for a maximum continuous stay of seven nights, perfect for a full week's worth of exploration without having to relocate.

For all inquiries regarding reservations, permits, fire regulations, and current forest conditions, campers should contact the Delaware Forest District office, the managing authority for Campsite E013.

Managing Authority: Delaware Forest District #19

Address (District Office): 2391 Resica Falls Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 (This is the administrative address, not the campsite itself)

Phone: (570) 895-4000

Reservation System: Camping permits must be obtained in advance. Reservations can typically be made online through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or by calling the DCNR call center. Walk-in camping without a permit is strictly prohibited at all designated motorized sites like E013.

Campsite E013 in the Delaware State Forest is an exceptional resource for Pennsylvania residents, offering an affordable and readily accessible wilderness experience right in their backyard. This location provides the perfect balance: the rugged, back-to-basics challenge of primitive camping combined with the practical convenience of vehicle access. It is a vital spot for Poconos-area families and individuals looking to connect with the state's natural heritage without traveling long distances out of state. The permit-required system ensures that usage is regulated and the forest remains pristine, protecting this invaluable public resource. By choosing E013, Pennsylvanians support their state forest system while gaining a secluded retreat where they can fully embrace the quiet beauty of the Pocono Plateau, making it a true local treasure for the self-reliant camper.

Delaware State Forest campsite #E013

Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA