Camping at Eleven Mile Rd
Location and Access
Eleven Mile Road is a forestry service road situated in the Susquehannock State Forest, which spans over parts of Potter, Clinton, and McKean counties in Pennsylvania. To access this part of the forest, campers and visitors would typically need to consult state forest maps or use GPS navigation, focusing on the road's access points from nearby highways or main roads.
Camping Regulations
Camping in the Susquehannock State Forest, including along Eleven Mile Road, is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The DCNR sets forth regulations for camping which usually include:
- Permits: A camping permit may be required if you plan to stay at a site for more than one night. This is especially important for group camping or if the site is more than a mile from a designated campground.
- Duration: There are typically limits on how long you can camp in one spot, often not more than 14 days in a 30-day period.
- Campsites: Designated camping sites must be used, or for dispersed camping, certain conditions must be met regarding distance from water sources, roads, and trails.
Facilities and Amenities
Depending on where along Eleven Mile Road you decide to camp, facilities can be very basic or non-existent:
- Primitive Camping: Usually, there are few, if any, amenities. It might include non-flush toilets or none at all, no potable water, and no trash disposal — pack in, pack out is the norm.
- Developed Campsites: If there are any developed campsites along Eleven Mile Road, they may offer more amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and possibly potable water.
Activities
Susquehannock State Forest offers a wealth of recreational activities, which visitors accessing the forest via Eleven Mile Road can enjoy, such as:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area for all skill levels.
- Fishing: Streams in the forest are home to species like brook and brown trout.
- Hunting: The state forest areas are open to hunting for species according to Pennsylvania Game Commission regulations.
- Wildlife Watching: The forest is rich with Pennsylvania wildlife, perfect for enthusiasts and photographers.
Safety Considerations
- Wildlife: Be aware of the wildlife in the area and store food securely to avoid attracting bears.
- Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and dress accordingly.
- Fire Safety: Only build fires in designated areas or fire rings and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving.
- Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Local Rules and Regulations
Always check the local rules and regulations with the Susquehannock State Forest District office before heading out, as policies and conditions may change:
- Contact Information: Obtain up-to-date information on conditions, permits, and restrictions.
- Special Advisories: There may be specific advisories in place for things like pest outbreaks, high fire danger, or trail closures.
Planning and preparation are key to a successful camping trip along Eleven Mile Road in the Susquehannock State Forest. Make sure to check the latest information and adhere to all rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
