Site, Loop:003 Fire Tower, Callen Run Tract

- 8239+V2G, Munderf, PA 15825

For the Pennsylvania resident seeking true solitude and a deep immersion into the state’s natural woodlands, Site 003 Fire Tower in the Callen Run Tract offers an ideal solution. This is not a bustling, developed campground, but a designated, remote, primitive motorized campsite managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) within the vast expanse of Clear Creek State Forest. It is one of a limited number of reservable roadside sites available for those who want to drive their vehicle—whether a tent camper, small RV, or trailer—right up to their temporary home in the woods.

The name "Fire Tower" is a nod to its history; while the fire tower itself is no longer standing, the location retains its commanding presence within the forest. It represents a camping experience focused on self-reliance, low density, and quiet enjoyment of the outdoors. Site 003 is explicitly noted for its remote location along a dirt and gravel state forest road, ensuring minimal disruption from other users. As a roadside campsite, a permit is mandatory, but the benefit is a guaranteed spot in a secluded, beautiful corner of the forest, far from the typical crowds. Visitors are strongly advised to prepare for a completely self-sufficient stay, as modern amenities are intentionally absent, upholding the primitive nature of the State Forest system. This specific site is one of only five designated motorized roadside campsites in the Callen Run Tract, making it a highly desirable choice for those who value both privacy and vehicle accessibility.

Site 003 Fire Tower is located deep within the Callen Run Tract of the Clear Creek State Forest. Its official geographic marker is 8239+V2G, Munderf, PA 15825, USA, placing it in a remote area of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. The site is situated along a typically rough dirt and gravel state forest road.

Accessibility is a defining characteristic of this type of camping. Unlike true backcountry camping, Site 003 is a "motorized, roadside campsite," meaning campers are permitted to park their vehicle—and use it for storage and transportation—at the site. The drive in will be challenging and should be approached with caution. State Forest roads are minimally maintained, especially outside of peak seasons, and are often unpaved. Visitors with trailers or large recreational vehicles should investigate the campsite and access route thoroughly before arrival, as vehicle clearance and 4WD may be recommended, particularly during wet or winter conditions.

The site features a gravel driveway/spur that is a 'pull-in' entry, accommodating equipment lengths up to 60 feet. While the site is remote, its location within the larger Clear Creek State Forest system provides access to numerous forest roads and trails for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding Pennsylvania Wilds region. It’s important to note that cell phone coverage in this state forest is generally unreliable or non-existent, reinforcing the need to carry a paper map and complete trip planning prior to entering the forest.

The services at Site 003 Fire Tower reflect its primitive, low-density recreational purpose. It is essential for local campers to understand that this is a “no-frills” site, requiring comprehensive preparation and self-sufficiency.

• Mandatory Permit and Reservations: A camping permit is required for all motorized, roadside camping and must be obtained in advance. Stays are limited to a maximum of seven continuous nights.
• Dedicated Campsite: The site provides a designated space for camping, accommodating tents, trailers, or small RVs, with a maximum capacity of 10 people (or one family unit or five unrelated persons).
• Vehicle Accessibility: The site includes a designated gravel driveway/parking spur, allowing campers to keep their vehicle nearby for convenience and security.
• Basic Camp Facilities: Each site is equipped with one picnic table and one fire ring, which also features a grill for cooking.
• No Modern Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups available at the site. Campers must bring their own potable water.
• Sanitation Requirement: Restroom facilities are not available at this remote site. Campers are required to store and remove human waste using a holding tank, portable toilet, or adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, including burying waste at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, or trails.
• Carry-In, Carry-Out Policy: There are no trash disposal facilities. All trash and refuse generated during the stay must be packed out and removed from State Forest land.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are generally permitted on State Forest land, provided they are kept under control, attended at all times, and their waste is properly disposed of.

The most significant features of Site 003 Fire Tower lie in its solitude and its role as a basecamp for exploring the surrounding State Forest.

• Guaranteed Seclusion: As a singular, remote roadside site, it offers a level of privacy and quiet rarely found at developed campgrounds. It is perfectly suited for those seeking an escape from park activity and noise.
• Reservable Access: Unlike many first-come, first-served dispersed sites, securing a reservation for this site ensures that your deep woods experience is guaranteed upon arrival, eliminating the stress of finding an open spot.
• Motorized Basecamp: The site’s ability to accommodate a 60-foot length of equipment and up to a 350-foot gravel driveway length makes it a practical, if rugged, base for RVs or trailers whose owners prefer to be off the beaten path.
• Firewood Use: Campers are permitted to gather and burn dead and downed wood found on the State Forest land for campfires (outside of the March 1st through May 25th fire prohibition period). This promotes the authentic feel of a true wilderness camp.
• Proximity to Clear Creek State Forest Recreation: The site is an excellent gateway for exploring the 16,716-acre Clear Creek State Forest, which offers extensive opportunities for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Sense of History: Camping at a location named for its past as a fire tower site connects visitors to the forest's heritage of wildfire management and observation.

Since the Site 003 Fire Tower campsite is an unsupervised, primitive site, all administration, permits, and emergency contact flow through the managing authority, the Clear Creek State Forest District Office.

Managing Authority: Clear Creek State Forest, District 8 (Pennsylvania DCNR)

Physical Address for District Office: 158 South Second Avenue, Clarion, PA 16214

Phone Number for Campsite Inquiries/Authorization: (814) 226-1901

Reservations and Permit Application: Reservations for motorized, roadside campsites must be made online through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or by calling 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757).

In Case of Emergency: Campers should be prepared for no cell service. In an urgent situation, the protocol is to travel to an area with reliable cell coverage and call 911. The site's coordinates (listed on the permit) should be used to report the exact location.

For seasoned Pennsylvania campers, Site 003 Fire Tower is not just a campsite; it is a declaration of independence from crowded recreation areas. This site, located deep in the Callen Run Tract, offers locals a truly restorative escape and an opportunity to engage with their state forest lands on a primitive level. It’s perfect for the person who owns a small camper or trailer and wishes to use it for boondocking without being completely cut off from road access, yet still desiring the isolation of true wilderness.

This destination fosters the essential skills of self-sufficiency, water procurement, and proper waste management, encouraging the advanced practice of Leave No Trace principles critical to preserving the Commonwealth’s natural resources. By reserving a site here, Pennsylvanians secure a personal piece of the forest for up to seven days, knowing they have a dependable base for hunting, fishing, and extensive hiking. Site 003 Fire Tower is an affordable, accessible, and deeply satisfying way for locals to connect with the rugged beauty of the Pennsylvania Wilds, provided they arrive prepared to take full responsibility for their safety, comfort, and environmental impact. It’s an authentic, remote experience that truly sets it apart from typical, high-amenity camping.

Site, Loop:003 Fire Tower, Callen Run Tract

8239+V2G, Munderf, PA 15825, USA