Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow

For Pennsylvanians yearning to truly unplug and immerse themselves in the wild beauty of their state's natural landscapes, Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow in Fayetteville, PA, offers a unique opportunity. This isn't a bustling private campground; instead, it's a designated primitive roadside campsite located within the expansive Michaux State Forest. While the name "Haunted Hollow" might spark curiosity, the reality is a tranquil forest setting designed for those who appreciate solitude, self-sufficiency, and direct access to acres of unspoiled wilderness. For locals seeking a quiet basecamp for hiking, hunting, or simply a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, Campsite 009 provides a genuine, rustic outdoor experience in the heart of Pennsylvania.

Roadside Campsite 009, known as "Haunted Hollow," is a specific designated site located off XGCJ+23, Fayetteville, PA 17257, USA, within the vast Michaux State Forest. This type of campsite is part of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) system, offering a more primitive and secluded camping experience compared to traditional campgrounds or state park facilities. It is classified as a "motorized camping" site, meaning you can drive your vehicle to or very near the campsite for convenience.

Michaux State Forest itself spans over 85,000 acres across Adams, Cumberland, and Franklin counties, making it a significant recreational hub in central Pennsylvania. Campsite 009, like other DCNR roadside sites, generally provides basic amenities such as a picnic table and a fire ring, but lacks modern conveniences like potable water, flush toilets, or electricity. This intentional lack of development is a key part of its appeal, fostering a "Leave No Trace" ethos and promoting a deeper connection with the natural environment. Campers here embrace the quietude and appreciate being surrounded by the forest. It serves as an excellent base for various outdoor pursuits, including extensive hiking on trails like the Appalachian Trail (which passes through Michaux), hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. For Pennsylvanians seeking a genuine wilderness experience with the convenience of vehicle access, Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow offers an authentic and peaceful escape.

Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow is located at XGCJ+23, Fayetteville, PA 17257, USA. This address places it squarely within the scenic and expansive Michaux State Forest, which is situated in the south-central region of Pennsylvania, bordering Maryland. The specific Plus Code (XGCJ+23) indicates a precise, often remote, location, typical for state forest roadside campsites.

For Pennsylvanians, reaching Fayetteville and then navigating to this campsite involves a journey into the state's beautiful forested mountains. From major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Harrisburg, the drive would typically utilize major interstates and state highways (like US-30 or I-81), before transitioning to more rural state routes and eventually unpaved or gravel forest roads within Michaux State Forest. Campers should be prepared for varying road conditions on these forest roads, especially during inclement weather, and it's always advisable to carry a paper map as cell service can be unreliable in these remote areas.

The key aspect of its accessibility is that it is a "roadside" campsite. This means you can drive your vehicle directly to the site, allowing for easy loading and unloading of camping gear and supplies. While it offers vehicular convenience, it maintains a secluded feel, being distinct from larger, developed campgrounds. Its location within Michaux State Forest provides immediate access to a wealth of outdoor activities, including hundreds of miles of multi-use trails, prime hunting areas, and various fishing streams. This blend of vehicle accessibility and deep forest immersion makes Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow an ideal and convenient starting point for Pennsylvanians eager to explore the rugged beauty and recreational opportunities of their state forest lands.

Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow, as a designated primitive roadside campsite within Michaux State Forest, offers services focused on facilitating a self-sufficient outdoor experience, consistent with the Pennsylvania DCNR's management of state forest lands. These sites emphasize direct interaction with nature and are intentionally kept minimally developed.

• Designated Campsite: The primary service is a specific, marked site (Campsite 009) suitable for overnight camping. This area is designated for setting up tents or parking a recreational vehicle, designed to accommodate up to 10 people and a maximum vehicle length of 45 feet, with a site length of 31 feet and width of 13 feet, on a slight grade.

• Direct Vehicle Access/Parking: Campers can park their vehicle at or immediately adjacent to the campsite (described as "End to End" parking). This allows for convenient loading and unloading of gear and serves as a secure storage point.

• Fire Ring with Grill: Each site is equipped with a fire ring that includes a grill, allowing for safe campfires and outdoor cooking. It is crucial to note that fires are prohibited from March 1st through May 25th without special authorization or when fire danger is high.

• Picnic Table: A picnic table is provided at the site, offering a designated surface for meal preparation, dining, and other campsite activities.

• Primitive Environment (Absence of Amenities as a Feature): A key aspect of these sites is the intentional lack of modern conveniences. There are no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups. Restroom facilities are not available at most campsites, including 009, meaning campers must be prepared with their own sanitation solutions (e.g., portable toilets or adherence to Leave No Trace principles for human waste disposal). There are also no dump stations or trash disposal facilities; all campsites are "carry in, carry out," requiring campers to pack out all trash.

• Permit-Based Access: A required permit obtained online or by phone from the DCNR provides regulated access to this specific site, ensuring controlled use and maintenance of the resource.

Campers must bring all their own water, and be aware that cell phone coverage is often unreliable or unavailable in these remote areas. Awareness of wildlife (including bears) and adherence to proper food storage guidelines are essential for safety.

Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow in Michaux State Forest offers unique features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Pennsylvanians seeking a particular kind of outdoor experience.

• Profound Seclusion and Tranquility: Described as "Extremely quiet, not much traffic going by," this site provides an unparalleled sense of peace and isolation. It's a true escape from noise and light pollution, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

• Direct Forest Immersion: Being situated deep within Michaux State Forest means campers are surrounded by untouched wilderness. This offers a genuine, rustic camping experience, emphasizing self-reliance and environmental respect.

• Excellent Base for Outdoor Activities: The campsite is an ideal launchpad for exploring the vast Michaux State Forest, which boasts:

  • Extensive Hiking Trails: Immediate access to numerous hiking opportunities, including portions of the famous Appalachian Trail, which traverses the forest.

  • Hunting Opportunities: Michaux State Forest is a popular destination for hunting deer, turkey, bear, and small game (during designated seasons and with proper licenses), making this site highly convenient for hunters.

  • Mountain Biking & Horseback Riding: The forest features a network of trails suitable for these activities, catering to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Spectacular Stargazing: Far removed from urban lights, the night sky over Haunted Hollow offers breathtaking views of stars and constellations, providing an awe-inspiring experience.

• Vehicle Accessibility with Primitive Feel: The ability to drive directly to the site, indicated by "Roadside" camping and "Back-In" parking for up to 45 ft vehicles, combines the convenience of transporting gear with the raw appeal of primitive camping.

• Wildlife Viewing: The abundant forest environment provides ample opportunities for observing native Pennsylvania wildlife, including white-tailed deer, various bird species, and other forest inhabitants (with a strong emphasis on proper food storage due to bears).

• Year-Round Availability (with Considerations): These DCNR sites are generally open for reservations for much of the year (April to late November, with some sites for winter), offering flexibility for off-season adventures, though preparedness for varying conditions is essential.

As Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow is a designated primitive campsite within Michaux State Forest, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), it does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense of a private business. The fees for these state forest roadside campsites are standardized and determined by the DCNR permit system.

However, for Pennsylvanians, the inherent value and operational structure of these sites can be seen as beneficial:

• Highly Affordable Access: The fees for state forest roadside camping permits are typically very low, making it an extremely budget-friendly option for immersing oneself in nature for up to seven continuous nights. This affordability allows for frequent, accessible wilderness escapes.

• Guaranteed Reservation: The permit system ensures that once you reserve Campsite 009, you have a guaranteed, designated spot. This is a significant advantage, especially during peak seasons when finding available primitive sites can be challenging on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Extensive Public Land Access: Your camping permit grants you direct, regulated access to the vast recreational opportunities within Michaux State Forest, including hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, and extensive areas for hunting and fishing, all without additional daily entrance fees.

To book Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow, Pennsylvanians should utilize the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website (often via ReserveAmerica, accessible through the DCNR website). Reservations for these popular sites can typically be made up to eleven months in advance, which is crucial for securing preferred dates, especially during spring and fall or hunting seasons. It's important to review the specific regulations regarding length of stay (maximum 7 continuous nights, 48-hour vacancy requirement before re-booking any state forest campsite) as part of the DCNR's management to ensure equitable access to this valuable public resource.

To plan your primitive camping adventure at Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow within Michaux State Forest, here's how you can obtain necessary information and secure your required permit:

• Address: XGCJ+23, Fayetteville, PA 17257, USA

• Phone: As Campsite 009 is a specific, primitive site within a state forest, there isn't a direct phone number for the individual campsite itself. Instead, inquiries and permit reservations are handled through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

  • Michaux State Forest District Office: (717) 352-2211 (This is the primary contact for specific questions about Michaux State Forest, local conditions, fire restrictions, and camping regulations.)

  • Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation System: 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757). This is the centralized phone reservation line for DCNR-managed campsites across the state.

• Online Reservations: The most common and recommended method for reserving Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow (and other roadside campsites in PA State Forests) is through the official Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website. This can typically be found by visiting www.dcnr.pa.gov and navigating to the "State Forests" section, or by searching for "PA State Parks ReserveAmerica." Reservations for these popular sites can often be made up to eleven months in advance.

Given that permits are mandatory for motorized roadside camping and sites can be in high demand, particularly during peak seasons and hunting seasons, it is highly advisable to make your reservation well in advance. Always check the DCNR website and/or contact the Michaux State Forest District office for the latest regulations, fire restrictions, and any advisories before your trip.

For Pennsylvanians, Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow in Fayetteville offers an exceptionally suitable and authentic opportunity to connect with the raw beauty and vastness of their state's natural landscapes. Its location deep within Michaux State Forest provides an accessible yet truly immersive wilderness experience, perfectly aligned with the desires of locals seeking genuine outdoor adventure without venturing too far from home.

This campsite is ideal for those who truly appreciate solitude, self-reliance, and direct immersion in nature, far removed from the noise and light pollution of developed areas. For Pennsylvania's avid hikers, hunters, mountain bikers, and wildlife observers, Campsite 009 serves as an unparalleled basecamp, granting immediate access to thousands of acres of state forest land, miles of diverse trails, and prime areas for pursuing their passions. The convenience of being able to drive directly to the site, even in a primitive setting, makes it practical for transporting gear, allowing for a more comfortable, albeit rustic, experience.

Furthermore, choosing a DCNR-managed roadside campsite like 009 fosters a deeper appreciation for Pennsylvania's commitment to preserving its natural resources. By utilizing these sites, locals directly support the maintenance of these beautiful wild spaces and are encouraged to practice responsible outdoor ethics, particularly "Leave No Trace." For any Pennsylvanian eager to unplug, recharge in nature, and create lasting memories amidst the secluded beauty of the state's central forests, Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow is an outstanding and highly recommended choice for an authentic wilderness escape right in their own backyard.

Roadside Campsite 009 Haunted Hollow

XGCJ+23, Fayetteville, PA 17257, USA