Masten Camping Area

For Pennsylvanians yearning for an authentic wilderness experience, a retreat into nature that truly disconnects you from the everyday, Masten Camping Area in Canton, PA, offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled deep within the vast expanse of Loyalsock State Forest, this camping area is not your typical amenity-rich campground. Instead, it provides a raw, immersive encounter with the wild beauty of Pennsylvania’s natural landscapes, making it a beloved destination for seasoned hikers, backpackers, and those who appreciate the quiet solitude of the forest.

Masten Camping Area is particularly renowned as a primary access point for the challenging and scenic Old Loggers Path (OLP), a 27.8-mile loop trail that winds through some of the most remote and captivating terrain in the state. If you’re a local resident looking to escape the urban bustle and truly embrace the rugged charm of the Pennsylvania wilderness, Masten Camping Area is an ideal starting point for your next adventure. It’s a place where the sounds of nature replace traffic noise, and starlit nights offer an unmatched spectacle. This article will guide you through what makes Masten Camping Area a unique and suitable choice for Pennsylvania locals seeking a genuine outdoor escape.

Masten Camping Area is located in Canton, PA 17724, USA, specifically within the Loyalsock State Forest in Lycoming County. Its remote setting is a significant part of its appeal, offering a true backcountry feel. This is not a campground you stumble upon easily; accessing Masten requires navigating several miles of gravel forest roads. As one reviewer noted, "This is a very rural spot. Gravel roads for the last few miles." While these roads are generally passable for most vehicles, especially during warmer months, it’s advisable to be prepared for unpaved conditions, and a higher-clearance vehicle might be more comfortable. In winter, access can be more challenging as state forest roads do not receive winter maintenance or plowing.

For Pennsylvania locals, reaching Masten Camping Area involves driving into a less-developed, heavily forested region. From larger towns like Williamsport, the drive will lead you northeast into the heart of Loyalsock State Forest. The remoteness means that cell service can be spotty or non-existent in the area, a detail often appreciated by those looking for a true digital detox. It is highly recommended to download offline maps or bring a physical map of the area before heading out. The parking area at Masten is well-established, located at the intersection of Masten Road and Pleasant Stream Road, and serves as a popular trailhead for the Old Loggers Path. This direct access to one of Pennsylvania's premier long-distance hiking trails is a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its secluded nature, its primary function as a trailhead makes it a known and generally accessible spot for those planning an adventure in Loyalsock State Forest.

Masten Camping Area is designed for rustic, primitive camping, reflecting its location within a state forest. This means campers should arrive prepared for a self-sufficient experience, as modern amenities are intentionally limited to preserve the wilderness character of the area. Based on DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) guidelines for Loyalsock State Forest and typical state forest campsites, the following services can generally be expected:

• Designated Campsites: The camping area features designated campsites, some of which are situated on the foundations of the old Masten town, adding a unique historical element to your stay. These sites typically include a cleared area for tents and a fire ring.
• No Modern Amenities: It is crucial to note that Masten Camping Area does not offer electric, water, sewer hook-ups, or dump stations. Campers must bring their own water or be prepared to filter and purify water from natural sources like Pleasant Stream, which runs nearby.
• Portable Toilets (Seasonal): DCNR often provides portable toilets (porta-potties) during the peak camping season. However, these are not always available year-round, and campers should be prepared for backcountry human waste disposal methods (e.g., digging catholes) if toilets are not present or accessible.
• Carry In, Carry Out Policy: All trash and litter must be packed out by campers. There are no trash receptacles provided, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles.
• Fire Rings: Most designated campsites include a fire ring for campfires. However, fire regulations are strict, especially during dry periods or from March 1st to May 25th, when campfires are prohibited without authorization or when fire danger is high. Campers are permitted to gather dead and downed wood for fires but are not allowed to use power tools or chain saws.
• Parking: There is a parking lot at the Masten trailhead, offering ample space for vehicles. This is particularly convenient for backpackers embarking on the Old Loggers Path, as it allows them to leave their car securely for multi-day trips.

Masten Camping Area’s allure lies in its intrinsic connection to nature and history, offering unique highlights for the discerning outdoors enthusiast.

• Gateway to the Old Loggers Path (OLP): This is arguably the most significant highlight. Masten Camping Area serves as a primary trailhead for the OLP, a nearly 28-mile loop trail renowned for its rugged beauty, challenging terrain, and historical significance. Hikers can embark directly from their campsite on multi-day backpacking adventures.
• Historical Significance: Masten was once a bustling logging town that became a ghost town by the 1930s. The campsites themselves are often located on the remnants of old foundations, and exploring the area reveals fascinating insights into Pennsylvania’s industrial past, with old machinery parts and coal piles sometimes visible.
• Rustic and Secluded Experience: Unlike crowded, developed campgrounds, Masten offers a genuinely quiet and secluded environment. This is a major draw for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature, far from the sounds of civilization. The "nice quiet site" and "very rural spot" mentioned in reviews underscore this.
• Natural Beauty: Located within Loyalsock State Forest, the area is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Reviewers frequently mention "wild cat prints in the fresh snow" and the overall beauty of the forest. The OLP itself boasts spectacular overlooks like Sprout Point Vista and Sharp Top Vista, and showcases Rock Run, often called "the prettiest stream in Pennsylvania," with its numerous cascades and swimming holes.
• Backcountry Camping Opportunities: Beyond the designated sites, Loyalsock State Forest allows for dispersed camping, offering even more flexibility for experienced backpackers. The OLP has numerous backcountry campsites and even two Adirondack-style shelters (Doe Run and Sprout Point) that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote nature of the state forest means ample opportunities to observe local wildlife, from deer and various bird species to potential sightings of bobcats or bears (always practice bear-aware camping).

As a state forest campground operating under the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Masten Camping Area typically does not offer commercial promotions or special discounts in the way a private campground might. Fees for campsites are standardized and set by the DCNR.

The cost for a campsite at Masten Camping Area, as mentioned in a review, is around $16.50. This price reflects the primitive nature of the sites and the regulatory structure of state forest camping. While there aren't "buy one get one free" deals or seasonal discounts, the value lies in the affordable access to extensive natural resources and a truly unadulterated outdoor experience.

Any "specials" would typically come in the form of the inherent low cost of state forest camping compared to private campgrounds with extensive amenities. For the most up-to-date pricing and reservation information, potential campers should consult the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or use the Reserve America platform for Loyalsock State Forest. It's always advisable to check current regulations and fees before planning your trip.

For reservations, permits, or more detailed information about Masten Camping Area and camping within Loyalsock State Forest, contact the Loyalsock State Forest district office.

Phone: (570) 946-4049

Address: The Masten Camping Area is located in Canton, PA 17724, USA. For mail or official inquiries related to the Loyalsock State Forest, the general district office addresses are available through the DCNR website, which typically includes:

Loyalsock State Forest Resource Management Center
6735 Route 220, Dushore, PA 18614
or
86 Dry Run Road, PO Box 75, Hillsgrove, PA 18619

Reservations for state forest campsites can often be made online through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or by calling 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) Monday through Saturday, 7:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. For primitive backpacking permits, contacting the Loyalsock State Forest district office directly at the provided phone number is recommended.

Masten Camping Area is exceptionally well-suited for Pennsylvania locals who cherish authentic outdoor experiences and seek a genuine escape into the wilderness. Its distinctive characteristics cater to a specific type of camper, offering advantages that resonate deeply with the spirit of Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.

Firstly, for those residing in Pennsylvania, the Masten Camping Area offers a convenient gateway to one of the state's most iconic and challenging hiking trails, the Old Loggers Path. Locals often seek out trails like the OLP for multi-day backpacking trips, and having a reliable, well-known trailhead and car camping option right at the starting point is incredibly valuable. The ability to park your car and embark directly on a challenging loop trail like the OLP without needing to move your vehicle for days is a significant convenience for local backpackers.

Secondly, the rustic nature of Masten Camping Area appeals to Pennsylvanians who value self-reliance and a more raw camping experience. In a state rich with both highly developed campgrounds and pristine wilderness, Masten strikes a balance by providing designated, maintainable sites within a truly wild setting. This encourages responsible outdoor ethics and fosters a deeper appreciation for conservation, aligning with the values of many local outdoor enthusiasts. The absence of modern amenities is not a drawback but rather a feature, ensuring a true disconnect from urban comforts.

Thirdly, the historical context of Masten adds a unique layer of intrigue. Locals interested in Pennsylvania’s rich logging history will find the remnants of the old town fascinating, transforming a camping trip into an educational and reflective experience. This connection to the past enhances the sense of place and creates memorable stories.

Finally, the sheer natural beauty and remote tranquility of Loyalsock State Forest, accessible directly from Masten, is a compelling reason for locals to visit. It’s a place where you can find true quiet, observe wildlife, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of an unspoiled forest. For Pennsylvanians looking for an antidote to daily stress, a place to recharge and reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home, Masten Camping Area offers an ideal and enriching outdoor adventure. It truly embodies the rugged spirit of Pennsylvania’s wild landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for those who know and love the state's natural treasures.

Masten Camping Area

Canton, PA 17724, USA