Loyalsock State Forest

Loyalsock State Forest is named for Loyalsock Creek, a scenic freestone stream that winds through the heart of its 114,522 acres. The forest spans the northern tier’s “Endless Mountains” region in portions of Sullivan, Bradford, and Lycoming Counties.

For more information visit the Loyalsock State Forest website and Facebook page.

Visitors are drawn to the Loyalsock State Forest for its unmatched beauty and to participate in the many recreational activities available there. Over 130 miles of well-maintained public use roads offer both access to the forest and opportunities for scenic driving where there are numerous vistas.

For the adventurous, there are over 200 miles of hiking trails, including the beloved Loyalsock Trail and Old Loggers Path. There are many shared use paths including the 52-mile Bridle Trail. The Loyalsock State Forest is a premier fishing destination with miles of streams featuring pristine, cascading water. The vast tracts of forest also offer excellent hunting opportunities amongst its diverse habitats.

The McIntyre Wild Area and Kettle Creek Wild Area allow for exploration of forests with wild character. Just a few other favorite activities include canoeing, kayaking, and picnicking. In the winter months snowmobiling and cross country skiing are popular.

For maps of these areas visit the Loyalsock State Forest map page.

The Loyalsock State Forest is managed primarily for dispersed recreation and facilities are generally limited.

There are picnicking facilities at the Dry Run Picnic Area where pavilions, picnic tables, grills, and latrines are availableas well as at the Bear Wallow and Sones Pond Recreation Areas. The trailhead along World’s End Road (SR3009) has ample parking and a shelter that serves as an ideal gateway to the many trails in the area.

The Loyalsock State Forest also has 4 designated camping areas and dozens of singular, remote, dispersed roadside campsites. These are designated with a signpost and campsite name. They are primitive in nature and most have no improvements.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry manages our state forests for their long-term health and productivity while conserving native wild plants.

These forests are managed as “working forests” and provide a suite of uses and values to Pennsylvania citizens, while maintaining the forest’s wild character.

Our state forests are managed for:

• Pure water
• Recreation
• Scenic beauty
• Plant and animal habitat
• Sustainable timber and natural gas
• Many other uses and values

The management of our state forests is guided by the State Forest Resource Management Plan.