Edgemere - Delaware State Forest

- 1085 Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

For seasoned Pennsylvania campers seeking genuine solitude and an unfiltered connection with the wilderness, the Edgemere Campsite in the expansive Delaware State Forest provides an exceptional, reservable retreat. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), this is not your typical RV park; Edgemere is part of a system of designated "motorized, roadside" campsites. These sites are intentionally primitive, offering the bare minimum of amenities to preserve the natural character of the 84,000-acre forest.

The Edgemere area, near the historic community of Dingmans Ferry, is defined by the rugged beauty of the Pocono Plateau—a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, glacial lakes, and extensive trail systems. A motorized campsite means you can park your vehicle (car, truck, or appropriately-sized trailer/RV) at or very near the site, providing convenience while maintaining a secluded, non-developed atmosphere. Campers should approach a trip to Edgemere with a commitment to self-sufficiency and strict adherence to the principles of Leave No Trace, as modern conveniences are deliberately absent. The reward is a level of peace and quiet rarely found elsewhere in the easily accessible Poconos region.

Edgemere Campsite is situated within the bounds of the Delaware State Forest in Pike County, making it an ideal destination for residents looking to explore the northeastern corner of the state. The specific area is accessed via a network of state forest roads, often rough dirt or gravel, which contributes significantly to the site's secluded nature.

The general address guiding visitors to this forest tract is:

Address: 1085 Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA

Accessibility Details:

Access to the Edgemere area involves traveling on unpaved state forest roads. While many vehicles can navigate these roads, campers should be aware that conditions are not routinely maintained, especially outside of peak seasons. It is highly recommended that visitors use a reliable vehicle and exercise caution. The isolation, a major draw for tranquility, also means that cell phone coverage can be spotty or non-existent. Campers must come prepared with detailed maps (digital or paper) and be confident in their ability to handle remote navigation. The area’s location makes it a superb staging point for engaging with the broader regional attractions, including the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and several state game lands.

Camping at Edgemere is a true primitive experience, designed to minimize impact and maximize the connection with nature. The DCNR provides only the most essential facilities for safety and basic use:

• Designated Parking: Each reserved motorized campsite includes a defined space where a camper's vehicle may be parked, serving as a gear base and shelter.
• Campfire Ring: A permanent, contained metal fire ring is provided for building campfires. Regulations mandate that fires must be attended at all times and require specific authorization during the spring wildfire season (March 1st through May 25th).
• Picnic Table: A fixed picnic table is available at the site, offering a surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Water and Utilities: No potable water, electrical hookups, or sewage facilities are available at Edgemere. Campers must bring all necessary water for drinking and washing.
• Waste Disposal: Edgemere operates under a strict "Carry In, Carry Out" policy. Campers must remove all garbage, litter, and refuse from the forest land upon departure.
• Sanitation: Restrooms are not provided. Visitors must follow strict Leave No Trace guidelines, including burying human waste in catholes well away from water sources, trails, and the campsite, or using a self-contained portable toilet.

The Edgemere Campsite is prized by its visitors for its distinct characteristics, offering an authentic Pennsylvania wilderness experience:

• Extreme Seclusion: Customer reviews frequently highlight the "beautiful secluded campsite" and the "very peaceful" atmosphere, distinguishing it from busier, more developed park campgrounds.
• Direct Trail Access: The Edgemere area is integrated into the State Forest's extensive trail network, including snowmobile trails that are ideal for hiking and mountain biking in warmer months, providing endless opportunities for exploration right from the campsite.
• Affordable Resident Pricing: As a DCNR-managed motorized site, Pennsylvania residents benefit from a reduced overnight fee (currently $10.00 per night), making extended stays both feasible and economical.
• Reservable Peace of Mind: While primitive, the need for a mandatory, reservable permit ensures that when you arrive, your site is secured, eliminating the risk of a wasted trip after a long drive into the forest. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Consistent with DCNR State Forest regulations, pets are permitted on the state forest land, provided they are under control and attended at all times, making this an excellent choice for a wilderness trip with your dog.

Note on Wildlife and Safety: Previous visitor reports note the presence of ticks, and all DCNR sites in this region are subject to bear activity. Campers must take precautions, including proper food storage (bear bagging or storing food securely in a vehicle) and performing regular tick checks to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.

For permits, reservations, and information regarding Edgemere Campsite, all inquiries are directed to the main management office for the district:

Managing Authority: Delaware Forest District #19

Address (District Office): 2391 Resica Falls Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302

Phone: (570) 895-4000

Reservation Process: Reservations for motorized campsites like Edgemere must be made online via the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or by calling the DCNR reservation hotline. It is mandatory to have a printed or digital copy of your confirmed permit with you during your stay.

Edgemere Campsite in the Delaware State Forest represents a quintessential Pennsylvania wilderness camping experience. It’s an essential destination for local residents who are seeking a legitimate, affordable, and deeply secluded escape into the Pocono woods. The site’s primitive nature is its greatest asset, forcing campers to rely on their skills and fully appreciate the surrounding natural environment. By requiring a permit and adhering to the "Carry In, Carry Out" philosophy, the DCNR helps to preserve this incredible resource. For the self-reliant Pennsylvanian looking to explore the 200 miles of multi-use trails, fish the secluded lakes, or simply find silence beneath a dark, starry sky, reserving a spot at Edgemere is the ideal first step toward a restorative and truly unforgettable local adventure.

Edgemere - Delaware State Forest

1085 Silver Lake Rd, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328, USA