Shoshone Site

For outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania seeking a truly authentic, remote wilderness experience, the Shoshone Site offers a unique opportunity. This location is not a large, modern resort campground, but rather a designated roadside or motorized campsite located within the expansive Moshannon State Forest, specifically near the Shaggers Inn Camping Area in Huston Township. Situated in the heart of the PA Wilds region, this site provides a base camp for hikers, hunters, and those who prefer the quiet solitude of the State Forest system over the amenities of a developed park.

The Shoshone Site falls under the category of 'motorized, roadside camping' administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This classification means the site allows overnight camping in or very near a vehicle, where the vehicle is used for storage or transportation. It is an ideal spot for Pennsylvania residents looking to connect with the state’s vast natural areas while maintaining proximity to their essential gear. Because it is located on State Forest land, the experience is decidedly more primitive than State Park camping, emphasizing self-sufficiency and respect for the natural environment.

The vast Moshannon State Forest, which hosts the Shoshone Site, is known for its rugged backcountry, extensive trail systems, and as part of the Pennsylvania Elk Management Area. Camping at a designated site like Shoshone requires a permit and reservation, which helps the DCNR manage use and protect the forest's pristine condition. This particular site is one of several designated roadside campsites, offering a coveted spot for those exploring the dense forests and unique history of Central Pennsylvania.

The Shoshone Site is officially located in the Huston Township, PA 15849, USA, within the Moshannon State Forest. While a specific street address isn't applicable, its location is tied to the State Forest's network of dirt and gravel roads, making it accessible by vehicle. The site is situated near the Shaggers Inn Camping Area, a collection of designated roadside campsites in the forest.

For users across Pennsylvania, the Moshannon State Forest is found in the central part of the state, covering parts of Centre, Clearfield, and Elk Counties. Access typically involves navigating well-maintained but unpaved State Forest roads. Campers are advised to consult detailed DCNR maps or use GPS coordinates for precise directions, as signage can be minimal in State Forest areas. Given its remote nature, it is not within easy walking distance of stores or large towns. Preparation is key: campers should stock up on all necessary supplies, including food, water, and fuel, before entering the forest, as the nearest substantial services may be a significant drive away. This remote location is a deliberate feature, offering true respite from the hustle and bustle of city life in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, or the Harrisburg region.

As a designated motorized, roadside campsite within a Pennsylvania State Forest, the Shoshone Site provides a rustic camping experience. Users should manage their expectations, as it does not offer the modern conveniences found at developed State Parks or private campgrounds. The focus is on basic necessity and immersion in nature.

• Site Infrastructure: Sites are typically simple, sometimes a pull-off or a short driveway along a State Forest road, designed to accommodate a vehicle and camping equipment, such as a tent or a small recreational vehicle/trailer.
• Utility Hookups: There are **no** electric, water, or sewer hookups available at the Shoshone Site or any other motorized roadside campsite in Moshannon State Forest. Campers must be fully self-sufficient regarding power and waste management.
• Water Access: Potable water is not available on-site. Campers must bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources within the forest, following safe practices.
• Waste Management: There are **no** dump stations or trash disposal facilities. Campers must practice strict 'Leave No Trace' principles, packing out all trash and waste, including human waste, as required for dispersed camping.
• Permit and Reservations: A required camping permit must be obtained and reserved in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservation website or by calling the designated state parks number. Stays are typically limited to seven nights at a time.

The appeal of the Shoshone Site lies in the unique features and experiences offered by its location within the vast and wild Moshannon State Forest.

• Remote Wilderness Experience: This is a true destination for solitude seekers. The roadside sites are typically remote and separated, offering a sense of privacy and deep forest immersion often unavailable in crowded, developed campgrounds.
• Direct Access to Forest Activities: The site serves as an ideal launchpad for the full range of State Forest recreation, including extensive hiking and backpacking opportunities on unmaintained or multi-use trails, nature viewing, and photography.
• Hunting and Fishing Base Camp: Moshannon State Forest is a prime hunting and fishing location in Pennsylvania. The Shoshone Site is perfectly positioned for sportsmen and women seeking a convenient, permitted base camp during deer, bear, and turkey seasons, or for year-round fishing in local streams.
• Equestrian-Friendly Access: Some nearby roadside campsites in the Moshannon State Forest are specifically suited for equestrian use (such as the Yellow Snake Camping Area), and the Shoshone Site may offer suitable access for those touring the forest on horseback, though specific accommodations should be verified with the DCNR.
• Moshannon State Forest Environment: Camping here places you in the heart of Pennsylvania's diverse and rugged hardwood forests. Visitors can witness dramatic seasonal changes, from the quiet snows of winter to the vibrant green canopy of summer. The region is known for its significant wildlife population.
• Proximity to PA Wilds Attractions: While remote, the area is central to other major PA Wilds destinations like Black Moshannon State Park and the expansive Pennsylvania Elk Management Area, offering excellent day-trip options for those seeking more amenities or famous wildlife viewing.

Since Shoshone Site is a part of the state forest system, contact for reservations and detailed information is managed centrally by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

Address: Located in Moshannon State Forest, Huston Township, PA 15849, USA (Note: Specific site GPS or map required for navigation)

Phone Number (DCNR Reservations): 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

Phone Number (Moshannon State Forest District Office): (814) 765-0821 (For forest-specific information, permits, and group authorization)

Reservations for the Shoshone Site are required and should be made well in advance, especially during peak seasons like hunting or major holidays.

The Shoshone Site is worth choosing for the discerning Pennsylvania camper who values **seclusion, independence, and an unvarnished connection to the wilderness**. This is not the place for those looking for a swimming pool or a game room; it is a retreat for those who find their recreation in rugged backcountry exploration, fishing, and quiet contemplation by the campfire.

For Pennsylvania-based users, choosing this location means leveraging the state's incredible network of State Forests to achieve true solitude. The requirement for a permit ensures a managed, low-impact camping experience, protecting the environment while guaranteeing you a designated space. It is a fantastic option for **experienced RV and tent campers** who are fully equipped for off-grid living, as well as for **hunters and anglers** needing a simple, convenient, and permitted spot close to the action. Ultimately, Shoshone Site offers an accessible yet deeply immersive opportunity to explore the raw beauty of the Moshannon State Forest and the celebrated Pennsylvania Wilds, making it a truly rewarding choice for the self-reliant outdoor enthusiast.

Shoshone Site

Huston Township, PA 15849, USA