Decker Shelters

Pennsylvania is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. For those who seek a genuine backcountry experience, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Decker Shelters presents an ideal destination. Nestled along the famed Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, this campground provides a rustic yet accommodating retreat for hikers and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the heart of the Commonwealth's wild beauty.

Decker Shelters offers a unique blend of ruggedness and convenience, making it a popular stop for backpackers traversing the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the simple pleasures of a campfire under the stars become cherished memories. This location is not your typical drive-up campground with extensive amenities, but rather a thoughtfully designed backcountry shelter area that caters to those who appreciate the untouched wilderness.

The reviews from fellow adventurers consistently praise the setup at Decker Shelters, highlighting its suitability for a truly authentic outdoor experience. From well-maintained fire rings to available firewood, it’s clear that this spot is designed with the backpacker in mind. If you’re a Pennsylvanian looking to explore the state’s impressive trail system and experience genuine wilderness camping, Decker Shelters deserves a prime spot on your itinerary.

Decker Shelters is located at 1209 Decker Ave, Johnstown, PA 15906, USA. Its strategic position on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail makes it an essential stop for anyone undertaking a multi-day hike. The trail itself stretches along Laurel Mountain, connecting the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. As a backcountry facility, accessibility to Decker Shelters typically involves hiking in, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and appreciate the journey.

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is exceptionally well-marked, with yellow blazes appearing approximately every 100 feet and mileage monuments at every mile. Connector trails, marked with blue blazes, lead hikers from the main trail to the shelter areas. While Decker Shelters is situated off the main path, large wooden signs ensure easy navigation for hikers. Overnight parking for the trail is available at various trailheads along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, though visitors should confirm specific parking regulations and register their vehicles as required to avoid issues. It’s important to note that this is a hiking-only trail, meaning no vehicles can access the shelter areas directly. Planning your trek, understanding the trail's demands, and being prepared for a walk-in experience are key to enjoying Decker Shelters.

Despite its backcountry nature, Decker Shelters provides essential services designed to support hikers on their journey. These amenities are focused on providing a comfortable and safe overnight stay in a wilderness setting.

• Adirondack Shelters: The campground features five Adirondack-style shelters. These open-faced structures provide a roof over your head, offering protection from the elements and a designated sleeping area. Each shelter typically includes a picnic table, providing a convenient space for meal preparation and dining.

• Tent Camping Areas: In addition to the shelters, there are five designated tent camping areas. These spaces offer more flexibility for groups or individuals who prefer to pitch their own tents, allowing for a more traditional camping experience within the shelter area.

• Fire Rings: Each shelter and tent area is equipped with a fire ring, perfect for building a cozy campfire, cooking meals, or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance after a day of hiking. User reviews consistently mention the presence of good fire rings.

• Firewood Provision: A significant convenience for backcountry campers, firewood is provided in a large pile near the water pump. This eliminates the need for hikers to carry or forage for wood, making the camping experience more enjoyable and less strenuous.

• Water Sources: Decker Shelters offers two water sources: a running stream nearby and a pump. It is crucial to note that both water sources are rated as non-potable, meaning all water drawn from them must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before consumption. Hikers should always carry a reliable water filtration system or other purification methods.

• Restroom Facilities: For added convenience in a rugged environment, the campground provides indoor restrooms, separate for men and women. While described as over deep pits, they offer a more private and comfortable option than traditional outdoor facilities, and toilet paper is provided. It's a step up from typical backcountry pit toilets, although visitors should manage expectations for cleanliness in a wilderness setting.

Decker Shelters is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an integral part of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail experience, offering several highlights that enhance a backcountry adventure.

• Backcountry Gem: This shelter area is consistently praised as a "backcountry gem." It perfectly embodies the spirit of rugged outdoor adventure, providing essential comforts without detracting from the natural environment.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite being in a wilderness setting, the facilities, particularly the fire rings and shelters, are noted for being well-maintained and functional, contributing to a positive user experience.

• Ample Firewood: The availability of a large pile of firewood is a significant benefit for campers, ensuring that warmth and cooking capabilities are readily accessible.

• Strategic Trail Location: As one of eight overnight shelter areas along the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, Decker Shelters is perfectly positioned for multi-day backpacking trips, offering a crucial resting point between longer segments.

• Adirondack Shelter Experience: The five Adirondack shelters provide a classic backcountry camping experience, allowing hikers to sleep under a sturdy roof while still feeling connected to the outdoors.

• Pet-Friendly (with restrictions): Pets are permitted within the backpack shelter areas, provided they are on a leash or in a cage at all times, display a license (if required by their home state), and have a current rabies vaccination. There's a limit of two non-caged pets per shelter, and pet waste must be cleaned up and removed.

As a state-managed backcountry shelter area, Decker Shelters does not typically offer commercial promotions or special offers in the traditional sense. However, the value it provides to local Pennsylvanians lies in its affordable access to a pristine wilderness experience.

Overnight stays at the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail shelters require advance reservations and a per-person, per-night fee. Pennsylvania residents generally benefit from a lower overnight fee compared to non-residents, making it an even more attractive option for local outdoor enthusiasts. Backpacking groups are usually limited to the use of one shelter per overnight stop, though tent sites are also available for reservation. It is always recommended to check the official Pennsylvania State Parks website or call the park office at 724-455-3744 for the most current information on reservation policies, fees, and any updates regarding trail conditions or water availability. Planning ahead is key to securing your spot and ensuring a smooth trip.

For reservations, current conditions, or any inquiries regarding Decker Shelters or the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, the best point of contact is the park office responsible for managing this section of the trail.

Address: 1209 Decker Ave, Johnstown, PA 15906, USA (This address points to the general vicinity of the shelter area along the trail, not a main office accessible by vehicle for general inquiries.)

For direct inquiries regarding the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail and its shelters, including Decker Shelters, please contact:

Laurel Ridge State Park OfficePhone: 724-455-3744

It is highly recommended to call this number for the most up-to-date information on water availability, trail advisories, and to make or modify reservations for overnight stays. Remember, advance reservations are required for all overnight shelter and tent site use.

For residents of Pennsylvania, Decker Shelters represents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the state's natural heritage and engage in authentic outdoor adventure. Its location within the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail makes it a cornerstone for those seeking a true backpacking experience right in their backyard. This isn't a crowded commercial campground, but rather a dedicated backcountry resource designed to support immersive hiking and camping.

Locals can appreciate the accessibility to a high-quality, long-distance hiking trail, offering a chance to escape urban environments without traveling great distances. The availability of Adirondack shelters provides a unique and classic camping style, offering more protection than a tent while maintaining a close connection to the wilderness. The provided firewood is a thoughtful touch that significantly eases the burden of backcountry travel, allowing more focus on enjoying the natural surroundings. Even the pit-style restrooms, while basic, offer a level of convenience not always found in deep wilderness settings.

Decker Shelters serves as a perfect stepping stone for new backpackers to experience overnight trips with essential amenities, and a familiar, reliable stop for seasoned hikers. It fosters a sense of community among trail-goers and offers a direct pathway to exploring the rugged beauty of the Laurel Highlands. By utilizing this local gem, Pennsylvanians can embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle, reduce travel costs compared to distant destinations, and develop a deeper appreciation for the wild spaces within their own state. It's a reminder that truly rewarding outdoor experiences are often closer than you think, and Decker Shelters is a shining example of just that.

Decker Shelters

1209 Decker Ave, Johnstown, PA 15906, USA