Is it legal to camp anywhere in Pennsylvania?

Hipcamp staff
A scenic view of Pennsylvania

Yes, it is legal to camp in designated areas and campgrounds within Pennsylvania. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas within state parks, state forests, and national forests. In state forests, you can engage in dispersed camping, also known as primitive camping, but you must follow certain rules and regulations. For example, you need to obtain a free permit for stays longer than one night, and you must camp at least 25 feet away from trails and water sources.

For private land, you need the landowner's permission to camp. There are many private landowners who offer camping experiences through platforms like Hipcamp, where you can find unique camping spots in Pennsylvania.

Hipcamp has the perfect site to match your camping style.

Tent pitched beneath a sprawling oak tree

Camp your way.

No matter how you camp—in a tent, van or rig—with kids or your pup, we got you.
Pickup truck camper parked on a lakeside meadow with mountains behind

Only on Hipcamp.

Explore our collection of over 120,000 sites you won’t find anywhere else.
Host feeding hay to a llama

Find yourself outside.

Browse our comprehensive maps, read real reviews, and book direct with Hipcamp.