Rothrock State Forest Campsite #6, Reedsville, PA

Introduction / Overview

For seasoned Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiasts, the mention of Rothrock State Forest instantly conjures images of rugged mountain ridges, vast woodland, and, most notably, a world-class network of hiking and mountain biking trails. Campsite #6, a designated motorized, roadside primitive site near Reedsville, offers a rare and valuable opportunity to establish a base camp deep within this Central Pennsylvania wilderness. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), this site is specifically tailored for those who crave a remote, low-density camping experience where the focus is strictly on nature and adventure.

Unlike developed campgrounds, Campsite #6 provides a spacious, open yet private area to set up multiple tents or park a camper, offering a true "get away from it all" feeling. Guests consistently appreciate the site's layout—often described as a large, open oval—which is perfect for a group gathering, yet surrounded by enough forest to maintain a sense of seclusion. Its location is a strategic launching point for mountain bikers eager to tackle the area's challenging terrain, including sections of the famous Coopers Gap and Rothrock TrailMix Epic routes. Visitors must be prepared for a primitive experience; this site is a retreat into the forest, demanding a self-sufficient approach to water, sanitation, and provisions. This is not just a place to sleep; it is a gateway to one of the most celebrated and strenuous recreational areas in the Keystone State.

Location and Accessibility

Rothrock State Forest Campsite #6 is situated in a remote section of the nearly 97,000-acre Rothrock State Forest, in the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachians. The nearest community is Reedsville, PA 17084, placing the campsite within Mifflin County. This location is strategically positioned to offer access to the extensive trail systems of the greater Rothrock and Seven Mountains region.

Accessibility is a defining feature of this site, and travelers should be fully aware of the primitive nature of state forest roads. Access to Campsite #6 is via gravel and dirt State Forest roads—often referred to as "mountain road drives" by local users. While many of the motorized sites can be reached by 2-wheel drive vehicles in favorable weather, the DCNR advises caution. Visitors should be confident in their driving capabilities, especially when navigating trailers or larger vehicles, and should investigate the route beforehand. The remote setting means that this site is intentionally isolated from population centers, making a paper map and pre-planned directions essential, as cell phone coverage is not reliable or available in many parts of the forest. The journey is part of the experience, leading travelers to a secluded destination that is deliberately difficult to reach, thus ensuring its preserved tranquility. The site itself is reportedly located behind an unlocked metal gate, which must be kept closed to maintain the integrity of the area.

Services Offered (use a list)

As a designated motorized, primitive roadside camping area within a State Forest, Campsite #6 provides very limited, but intentional, facilities designed to keep the focus on a rustic outdoor experience.

Designated Campsite: A clear, large, open area with ample space for multiple tents or a small camper/RV.
Vehicle Access and Parking: Designated parking spaces are provided, allowing vehicles to be used for storage and transportation during the stay (Motorized Camping).
Essential Amenities: A single picnic table and a sturdy firepit/fire ring are provided for cooking and gathering.
Primitive Access Point: Serves as an immediate access point to surrounding mountain biking and hiking trails, utilizing the network of State Forest roads and singletrack trails.
Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are welcome at the campsite, provided they are managed responsibly in accordance with State Forest regulations.
Reservations and Permits: A required, free camping permit is issued by the Rothrock State Forest District Office for motorized camping, which must be obtained in advance. Stays are typically limited to seven nights.

Features / Highlights (use a list)

Campsite #6 is celebrated by local users not for its modern conveniences, but for its unique, nature-centric features and its location in a highly desirable recreational zone.

Excellent Group Capacity: The large, open oval area is well-suited for groups of friends, clubs, or multiple families, with reviews highlighting its capacity for "multiple camps/tents."
Hammock Camping Haven: The surrounding forest is perfect for stringing up hammocks, as confirmed by customer reviews, making it a favorite for those who prefer to sleep among the trees.
Mountain Biker's Hub: The site is an ideal base camp for mountain bikers, providing proximity to renowned trails and the challenging elevation profiles Rothrock is famous for.
Superb Stargazing Potential: Due to its remote location deep within the State Forest, the site is known to offer "plenty of open sky for stargazing on a clear night," providing a wonderful nocturnal experience away from light pollution.
Primitive Solitude: This location allows campers to truly "get away from it all," offering a higher degree of privacy and solitude compared to high-density State Park campgrounds.
Group Gathering Facilities: The provision of a picnic table and firepit in a large, central open space makes it an excellent location for communal outdoor meals and evening campfires.

Contact Information

For all reservations, permits, and specific access information concerning Campsite #6, or any other motorized camping in Rothrock State Forest, contact the local DCNR State Forest office.

Address: Reedsville, PA 17084, USA (General Area)

Phone (Rothrock State Forest District Office): Contact the office via the DCNR main line for the most up-to-date regional number, often available through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or the DCNR website. The main DCNR public number is generally available.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvania residents, particularly those in the Central PA region, Rothrock State Forest Campsite #6 is an invaluable resource for experiencing the state’s rugged interior on their own terms. It perfectly caters to the self-sufficient camper and the serious outdoor adventurer, distinguishing itself from the more crowded and amenity-rich State Park campgrounds. The suitability for locals stems from its low-density, primitive nature, which offers solitude and a genuine connection to nature—a key motivation for local outdoorspeople.

Critically, this campsite is a direct portal to Rothrock’s status as a world-class outdoor recreation destination. For the passionate local mountain biker or the dedicated hiker, Campsite #6 serves as the perfect, rustic staging area for tackling miles of difficult singletrack and challenging gravel routes. It encourages stewardship and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, reinforcing the local commitment to preserving the beauty of the Commonwealth’s public lands. The large, open layout makes it an excellent choice for local groups, clubs, or multi-family gatherings who desire a private spot for a weekend escape. In short, Campsite #6 offers a quintessential, self-guided adventure in a premium PA State Forest location, accessible via a free permit—a true benefit for residents who know and love the wild heart of Pennsylvania.