Camping at South

Overview of Michaux State Forest

Michaux State Forest, located in southcentral Pennsylvania, spans Adams, Cumberland, and Franklin counties. It is named after André Michaux, a French botanist, and covers a significant part of the South Mountain area, providing a mix of beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities. The forest is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

Camping Information

Reservations and Permits

• Many camping sites in Michaux State Forest may require a permit, especially for overnight stays.
• It's essential to check with the DCNR or the local forest district office for specific rules and to obtain necessary permits.
• Group camping often requires advanced reservations and may have specific restrictions on group size and site use.

Types of Camping Available

• Primitive Camping: For those looking to experience camping off the beaten path, primitive sites are available. These have minimal facilities and may not have easy access to water or restrooms.
• Motorized Camping: Specific sites allow for vehicles, these may have more amenities, such as fire rings and picnic tables.
• Designated Campsites: These sites are identified for camping with basic facilities like parking areas, tent pads, and fire rings.
• Dispersed Camping: In some areas, dispersed camping is allowed, which means you can camp outside of designated sites following certain rules.

Facilities and Amenities

• The facilities vary across different campsites. Some may have restrooms, water spigots, fire rings, and picnic tables, while others might offer minimal to no amenities.
• Trash disposal is often carry-in, carry-out, so campers must take all trash with them to keep the forest clean.

Activities

• Hiking: Michaux State Forest offers extensive hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.
• Biking: Mountain biking is a popular activity, with trails available for various skill levels.
• Fishing and Boating: Several streams and lakes within the forest are suitable for fishing and some allow for boating.
• Hunting: The forest is open to hunting, trapping, and the training of dogs during established seasons.

Wildlife and Plants

• The forest supports a diverse range of wildlife such as deer, turkey, songbirds, and more.
• It is home to an array of plant species, due in part to its rich soil and varied topography.

Safety and Regulations

Fire Safety

• Campfires may be allowed in designated areas, but check for any burn bans or restrictions.
• Always fully extinguish fires before leaving a campsite.

Wildlife Interactions

• Store food securely to not attract wildlife to campsites.
• Keep a respectful distance from any animals encountered.

Leave No Trace

• Michaux State Forest adheres to the Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact on the environment.
• Pack out all garbage and leave the site as it was found or better.

Pets

• Pets are often allowed but must be controlled and kept on a leash.
• Always clean up after pets and respect rules specific to wildlife protection areas where pets may not be allowed.

Contact Information and Navigation

Before heading to Michaux State Forest for a camping trip:

• Visit the Pennsylvania DCNR website for the latest information on camping, maps, regulations, and contact details.
• Reach out to the local forest district office for detailed information and any recent updates firsthand.
• Maps and guidebooks can be beneficial to bring along, especially for areas where cell service may be limited.

Being prepared with the right information and supplies will ensure a safer and more enjoyable camping experience in Michaux State Forest.