State Forest Campsite #E011, Blooming Grove, PA

**Introduction / Overview: True Primitive Camping in the Heart of the Pocono Plateau**

For the seasoned Pennsylvanian camper who finds modern RV resorts too manicured and crowded, **State Forest Campsite #E011** offers a genuine return to the wilderness. Located deep within the vast expanse of the 84,214-acre Delaware State Forest, this is not a typical campground with flush toilets and electric hookups. Campsite #E011 is part of the state forest's system of designated *motorized* primitive sites, specifically designed for those who embrace self-sufficiency and a high degree of solitude.

This is an experience defined by a deliberate lack of amenities, appealing to hunters, serious hikers, and particularly, ATV trail riders. The state forest is managed to provide low-density recreation, meaning sites are often remote and isolated. This specific location, known as **E011 Maple Run**, provides an accessible roadside base camp for exploring the nearly 200 miles of shared-use trails, including the nearby Burnt Mills and Maple Run ATV trails. It is essential to understand that camping here requires a primitive mindset, where you are fully responsible for your safety, sanitation, and waste removal. The rewards are dark night skies, undisturbed nature, and a truly authentic Pennsylvania forest adventure.

**Location and Accessibility: Remote Access in Blooming Grove, PA**

Campsite #E011 is officially situated in the **Delaware State Forest**, which spans Monroe and Pike counties in the Pocono region. Its specific address for directional purposes is:

104 Maple Run, Blooming Grove, PA 18428, USA

The site is located off PA Route 402, approximately four miles south of Interstate 84, within the Edgemere section of the state forest.

**Important Accessibility Notes:**

**Remote Road Access:** The campsite is situated along a dirt and gravel state forest road. While classified as a motorized site, campers should be confident in their driving capabilities and realistic about their vehicle’s limitations. It is highly recommended to investigate the route prior to attempting access with large trailers or low-clearance vehicles.
**Proximity to ATV Trails:** A key factor of this site is its location right next to the parking lot used by trail riders for the adjacent ATV trails. This proximity provides convenient ride-in/ride-out access but, as noted in customer reviews, can also lead to vehicular traffic, noise, and unexpected visitors utilizing the immediate area. Campers should anticipate activity associated with the use of the area for recreational vehicles.
**Limited Cell Service:** As with many remote areas in Pennsylvania's State Forests, cell phone coverage is not guaranteed and often unreliable. Campers must carry a paper map, study directions in advance, and be prepared for limited external communication.

**Services Offered (Primitive and Essential)**

The services at State Forest Campsite #E011 are strictly primitive, in line with the Pennsylvania DCNR’s policy for state forest camping. Campers must be fully self-contained and prepared for minimal external support.

**Campsite Furnishings:** The site is equipped with two essential features for a comfortable base camp: a **fire ring** for campfires and a **picnic table** for meals.
**Water & Sanitation:** There are **NO electric, water, or sewer hook-ups** provided at this site. Campers must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. There are also **NO restroom facilities** (vault or flush) directly at the site. Campers must either use a self-contained portable toilet or adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles for human waste disposal (digging a cathole 4-6 inches deep, 200 feet from water, trails, or the campsite).
**Waste Disposal:** This is a **'carry in, carry out'** site. All trash and refuse generated during the stay must be removed from the site and taken off state forest land by the camper.
**Vehicle Accommodation:** The site is designed as a roadside pull-in with a long, gravel driveway (up to 75 feet in length), allowing for overnight camping in or very near a vehicle, accommodating trailers or small RVs depending on the specific site layout and equipment length (site length is approximately 20 feet, width 30 feet).
**Firewood:** Dead and down wood may be gathered and burned on site, provided campfires are permitted (check for fire bans, especially during spring wildfire season). However, it is important to note that **power tools and chain saws are strictly prohibited**.

**Features / Highlights (For the Experienced PA Outdoorsman)**

Campsite #E011 is not for the casual visitor; its features are tailored to those seeking a true backwoods experience.

**Direct ATV Trail Access:** The most significant feature is its **immediate proximity to the Maple Run ATV Parking Lot and trail system**. For Pennsylvania's motorized recreation enthusiasts, this site functions as an unparalleled base camp, allowing riders to transition seamlessly from their camp to the expansive shared-use trails.
**Motorized and Primitive:** This is one of the limited number of designated **motorized campsites** in the Delaware State Forest, meaning it can accommodate a vehicle and is not strictly tent-only, though it retains the rugged, unmaintained feel of primitive camping.
**Seclusion (with caveats):** The location deep within the state forest generally ensures a high degree of **seclusion and forest immersion**. The large forest tracts are ideal for wildlife viewing, hunting (when in season), and exploring miles of trails, including the nearby Thunder Swamp Trail System.
**Pet-Friendly Policy:** Pets are permitted on State Forest land, provided they are under control and attended at all times, making this a great option for **hunters or hikers with dogs**.
**Maximized Stay:** Campers can reserve the site for a limit of **7 continuous days**, making it suitable for an extended, isolated adventure break.

**Contact Information**

Address: 104 Maple Run, Blooming Grove, PA 18428, USA (Delaware State Forest)

Phone (Delaware State Forest District Office): (570) 895-4000

**Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals**

State Forest Campsite #E011 is perfectly tailored for a specific type of Pennsylvania local: the **self-sufficient, experienced outdoors enthusiast, hunter, or ATV rider**.

For residents who own an ATV or enjoy hunting, the campsite’s location offers an incredible functional advantage, providing a reserved, dedicated base of operations directly adjacent to the permitted recreational trails. It is an escape from the regulated atmosphere of state park campgrounds, offering a more challenging and rewarding sense of solitude and independence. The "primitive" nature is what many long-time local campers seek—a place where the main requirements are personal preparedness and adherence to the DCNR’s 'Leave No Trace' ethic.

However, local users must approach this site with realistic expectations. Customer reviews highlight that the site's proximity to the ATV parking lot means it is **not a consistently quiet or fully private retreat**. Campers must be prepared to manage interactions with other forest users, as the lack of maintenance and distance from ranger patrols makes adherence to common courtesy and the **State Forest Rules and Regulations** (such as quiet hours and not using occupied sites) an even greater personal responsibility. For the prepared local seeking a rugged, functional base camp for motorized or deep-woods recreation, E011 in the Delaware State Forest provides an unparalleled opportunity.