State Forest Campsite #S006, East Stroudsburg, PA

Welcome, fellow Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiasts! If you are searching for a true back-to-nature experience—one that strips away the concrete and Wi-Fi to leave you with starry skies and the quiet rustle of the forest—then you may find your next adventure at State Forest Campsite #S006. Located deep within the majestic Delaware State Forest in the scenic Pocono region, this site offers a distinctive style of camping known as 'motorized, roadside primitive camping.'

This type of camping is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and is specifically designed for low-density, wilderness recreation. Unlike the more developed Pennsylvania State Parks, State Forest campsites like S006 intentionally provide minimal amenities, prioritizing solitude and a genuine forest experience. This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential, local information to plan a responsible and enjoyable trip to Campsite #S006, ensuring you arrive prepared for a genuine primitive stay in the heart of the Commonwealth.

State Forest Campsite #S006 is one of the designated motorized campsites nestled within the expansive 83,000 acres of the Delaware State Forest, a key natural resource in the Monroe and Pike Counties of Pennsylvania. The forest itself is characteristic of the Pocono Plateau, featuring remote glacial lakes, bogs, and a wealth of plant and animal habitats that make it a cherished local getaway.

Motorized, roadside camping means the site is accessible by vehicle, allowing you to park and camp either in or immediately next to your vehicle, using it for storage and transportation. However, it is crucial to understand that 'motorized' does not equate to 'developed.' The core philosophy here is primitive: there are no modern conveniences, no electric, water, or sewer hookups, and no developed restrooms or dump stations. This is a carry-in, carry-out site, demanding a high degree of preparedness and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. For many locals who seek to escape the daily grind and truly unplug, this simplicity is precisely the appeal, offering a level of seclusion that is hard to find at busier, more modern campgrounds across PA.

To secure your stay at this sought-after Pocono destination, a permit is mandatory and a reservation must be made through the state’s official booking system. Due to the high demand for secluded state forest spots, especially during peak seasons, planning well in advance—up to eleven months—is highly recommended for Pennsylvania residents.

The accessibility of Campsite #S006 makes it an appealing option for a weekend escape, but it also comes with a specific consideration that local users should be aware of. The site is geographically situated in the vicinity of East Stroudsburg, PA, and its primary access is directly off a major route through the forest.

The official location for the site is listed as being along PA-402, which is the main north-south state route traversing this portion of the Delaware State Forest and leading toward the Poconos' other attractions. Its roadside positioning means getting to the site is straightforward, often requiring minimal travel on unpaved forest roads compared to some more remote hike-in sites. This ease of access can be particularly helpful for those bringing tents, gear, and supplies for a multi-day stay.

However, local knowledge is important when selecting this site. One customer review specifically notes a downside of this easy access: "Way too close to a busy road." Pennsylvania travelers should recognize that PA-402 is a frequently used thoroughfare, meaning Campsite #S006, while providing a secluded forest setting, may experience vehicle noise, especially during the day and on high-traffic weekends. Campers seeking absolute silence may prefer a hike-in site deeper in the forest, but those who prioritize convenient vehicle access and proximity to the main road for quick day trips and easy entry will find S006 to be a good fit, provided they are prepared for some ambient traffic noise. You should confirm the exact campsite directions and coordinates on your official permit before travel, as the site is marked by a red fiberglass post and sign board.

As a designated motorized, primitive state forest campsite, the amenities at Campsite #S006 are purposefully limited, focusing on the essentials required for a true wilderness experience. This is what you can typically expect to find upon arrival:

Designated Parking Spur: A gravel or dirt pull-off area for parking your vehicle (up to a 20-foot max length for some sites) near the camping area.
Campsite Area: A cleared space large enough to accommodate tents or small camping units. Some sites may have a designated tent pad.
Picnic Table: A single, sturdy picnic table for food preparation and dining.
Fire Ring: An established metal fire ring for containing campfires and cooking. Dead and down wood may be gathered and burned, but cutting live or standing dead trees is strictly prohibited.
Permit and Reservation System: Required for all stays, reservable up to 11 months in advance through the DCNR system, with a maximum stay of seven consecutive nights.

It is important to reiterate what is not available: there are no restrooms (campers must follow self-contained sanitation practices or Leave No Trace principles), no potable water, no trash disposal (all trash must be packed out), and no electric or utility hookups.

Beyond the basic amenities, Campsite #S006 and its location within the Delaware State Forest offer unique highlights that attract local Pennsylvania outdoor enthusiasts:

Proximity to Pocono Recreation: The Delaware State Forest is a hub for outdoor activities, offering hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, hunting (in season), and access to waterways for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Seclusion in Nature: Campsites in the state forest are intentionally separated from one another to provide a private, isolated outdoor experience, minimizing interaction with other campers.
Year-Round Access: Unlike some State Park amenities, motorized camping is available 365 days a year, allowing for winter camping opportunities, though guests should be aware that forest roads are not maintained for snow and ice.
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, making it a great option for Pennsylvanians who travel with their dogs.
Rich Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to an abundance of Pennsylvania wildlife, offering opportunities for bear and deer sightings, as well as extensive birdwatching.

For all official inquiries, reservations, or to obtain crucial information about current fire dangers, seasonal alerts, or required permits, you should contact the Delaware State Forest District Office.

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

Campsite General Location: PA-402, East Stroudsburg, PA 18328, USA

Phone Number: (570) 895-4000

For residents of Pennsylvania, State Forest Campsite #S006 is perfectly positioned to serve as an accessible, yet truly rustic, basecamp for exploring the vast natural beauty of the Pocono region. It is the ideal destination for those who find private campground crowds and excessive amenities distracting from the core experience of connecting with nature. This site caters directly to the local camper who is prepared, self-sufficient, and values the rugged, unspoiled character of our state forests.

The ability to reserve a secluded, single-party site up to eleven months in advance is a major benefit for local planners. Furthermore, its location along PA-402 means you can spend your day hiking the Thunder Swamp Trail System, fishing in a nearby stream, or exploring the regional points of interest, and be back at your campsite quickly without navigating extensive dirt roads. While the noise from the nearby state route is a documented trade-off for this accessibility, it is a small price to pay for a primitive, secluded camping spot that doesn't require a long hike-in.

By choosing Campsite #S006, you are choosing an authentic PA State Forest experience—a reminder that some of the best outdoor adventures in the Commonwealth are the ones where you rely on your own preparation. Pack your water, leave your trash, and discover the quiet, dark skies that make Delaware State Forest one of Pennsylvania’s true outdoor gems. Secure your permit today and begin your next Pocono wilderness escape.