Hiking Camping in Pennsylvania
Your Appalachian Trail Base Camp
Seasonal RV camping with hiking access
Pennsylvania offers some of the best hiking on the East Coast, and Pine Ridge Campground puts you at the center of it. Located in Michaux State Forest at 2,050 feet elevation, we're just 15 minutes from the Appalachian Trail and surrounded by over 100 miles of forest hiking paths.
For serious hikers, Pine Ridge offers something unique: a seasonal base camp for exploring the region's trail networks. Instead of day-tripping from home or backpacking with heavy gear, you have a comfortable campsite waiting. Hike all day, return to hot showers, cook a real meal, and sleep in a real bed. Repeat all season long.
The Michaux State Forest trails offer everything from easy nature walks to challenging ridge hikes. The Appalachian Trail passes just 15 minutes away, with access points at Pine Grove Furnace and Caledonia. Thru-hikers often resupply in the area, giving the trail a vibrant community feel.
As a seasonal campground, Pine Ridge lets you explore systematically. Tackle different sections each weekend. Attempt challenging peaks when conditions are right. Build fitness over months. By the end of the season, you'll know these trails like a local.
Why Pine Ridge for Hiking?
Most campgrounds near good hiking are either primitive (no amenities) or crowded state parks (limited sites, reservation hassles). Pine Ridge offers the perfect middle ground.
At 2,050 feet, you're already at elevation - many hikes start from near your campsite altitude instead of requiring long uphill approaches. The seasonal format means no competing for sites during peak hiking weekends. And after a tough trail day, you have a hot shower, pool, and real food waiting - not a tent and camp stove.
The mountain location also means comfortable hiking weather. While valley trails swelter in July, Michaux trails stay 10-15 degrees cooler.
Pine Ridge Advantages for Hiking
What makes Pine Ridge the ideal seasonal camping destination for hiking enthusiasts.
Only 15 minutes to Appalachian Trail access points
100+ miles of Michaux State Forest trails from your doorstep
Already at 2,050 ft elevation - start hikes without long climbs
Seasonal site means no reservation hassles on peak hiking weekends
Hot showers and real amenities after trail days
Pool for post-hike recovery and relaxation
Comfortable weather for hiking - cooler than valley trails
Storage for hiking gear at your seasonal site
Trail & Access Information
Pine Ridge is surrounded by Michaux State Forest with trailhead access within walking distance. The Appalachian Trail is 15 minutes away at Pine Grove Furnace State Park or Caledonia State Park.
Appalachian Trail
Moderate to DifficultMichaux State Forest Trails
All levelsPole Steeple Trail
ModerateStorage & Logistics
Seasonal sites provide space for hiking gear storage. Many campers keep trekking poles, day packs, and trail supplies at their sites all season.
Rules & Regulations
Gear Checklist
Best Seasons
Spring offers wildflowers and waterfalls. Summer has longest daylight but warmest temps. Fall foliage (late September-October) is spectacular on mountain trails.
Related Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions for more hiking opportunities
Appalachian Trail
Access the legendary 2,190-mile trail just 2 minutes from Pine Ridge.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Two pristine lakes, Appalachian Trail midpoint, and historic iron furnaces.
Caledonia State Park
Swimming pool, hiking trails, fishing, and historic sites in a beautiful mountain setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close is Pine Ridge to the Appalachian Trail?
The Appalachian Trail is about 15 minutes from Pine Ridge by car. Access points at Pine Grove Furnace State Park and Caledonia State Park connect to the trail. The AT passes through Michaux State Forest for about 40 miles.
Are there hiking trails directly from Pine Ridge?
Yes! Pine Ridge is surrounded by Michaux State Forest with over 100 miles of hiking trails. Several trailheads are within walking distance of the campground, and many more are a short drive away.
Is Pine Ridge good for backpacking trips?
Pine Ridge is excellent as a base camp for day hikes on the AT and surrounding trails. For actual backpacking (overnight on trail), you'd start from your comfortable campsite, hike into the backcountry, and return to real amenities after your trip.
Can I hike year-round at Pine Ridge?
Pine Ridge is open April through October, covering the best hiking seasons in Pennsylvania. Spring through fall offers excellent trail conditions, with fall foliage being particularly spectacular.
What Hiking Enthusiasts Say
“After 20 years of car camping to hit PA trails, we finally got smart. Our Pine Ridge site is our hiking headquarters all season.”
The Martinez Family
AT section hikers
Ready for Hiking Adventures?
Join the hiking enthusiasts who have made Pine Ridge their seasonal base camp. Your mountain retreat awaits.