Forbes State Forest -- Site 6

If you are looking for an isolated camping experience, Site 6 in Forbes State Forest is the perfect place for you. Resting at 3, 213 feet above sea level, Site 6 is located near the peak of Mount Davis, the highest point in Pennsylvania.

Surrounded by nothing but nature for miles, Site 6 provides only a fire pit and a picnic table and does not have a restroom or drinking water. If you pack properly, you can have the camping experience of a life time; however, if you forget the essentials -- you are in for a treat.


1) Location and Cost:

Site 6 is located near Mount Davis, which is 15 miles from Myersdale, Pa.  From the Mount Davis Picnic Area, go North on Wolf Rock Road and turn right onto Vought Rock Road. Proceed almost a mile and the site will be on your right. It is difficult to spot for the first time, so be sure to pay attention for the turn.

Site 6 is a free campsite; however, it does require an application. You can find the application here. It simply requires your name, licence plate, and other basic information. You have to register 24 hours in advance to be sure it is not being occupied by someone else.

Although "no trace camping" should already be a priority, you will be fined if you leave trash at the site. So, be sure to not leave any trash behind!


2) What you need:

Unless you would like to sleep in your car, be sure to bring a tent. If you plan on coming to Site 6 with a large group, there is enough space for approximately half a dozen tents (as well as cars). Due to high elevation, the ground at Site 6 is often damp in the evenings. To compensate for your tent getting ruined, bring an extra tarp to place under your tent. It will keep the dampness out as well as add an extra layer between you and the ground. Also bring sleeping gear, such as a sleeping bag and pillow.

Other than shelter, firewood is one of the most important things to bring to Site 6. Without it, you will be not only surrounded by darkness, but also bugs and/or animals. Bring enough firewood to keep an active fire for majority of each night. (If you are unsure where to attain firewood, once you get back to the main road turn left. You will drive for about 3 miles and then make the first left you see. After about a mile, there will be a "Firewood For Sale" sign on your right. If you pull in, you will be greeted by a friendly Amish family. You can get a whole trunk full of firewood for only $15!)

If you forget to bring water, you will not enjoy your stay (especially in the heat of summer). With no accessible running water for miles, it is important to have a good supply. I would also recommend bringing a cooler with ice. Along with water, bring non perishable foods--the amount and kind of food you bring depends on the duration of your camping trip.

Since there is no restroom located at Site 6, you have two options about going to the restroom. (1) The closest restroom is located at a picnic area about 3 miles away (you can see it when you get back to the main road). This is an eco-friendly bathroom that does not have running water or light. If you chose to drive to the restroom, be sure to bring a flashlight. (2) Bring a small shovel. If you plan on going #2 in the woods, you want to be sure to bury it so it does not attract animals.

Other items you will need include any personal hygienic items (such as a toothbrush, deodorant, ect), enough clothes to last the duration of your trip, an extra pair of shoes, a flashlight ( I would suggest a headlamp), sunscreen, bug spray, and any other items you feel are necessary for camping.


3) What to do: 

Although this is an isolated camp site, there is plenty to do within a few mile radius. If you hike (or drive) back to the main road and continue down another access road, you will find yourself at the Observation Tower. This tower is located at the peak of Mount Davis. From it, you are able to see into four different states (including Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia). It is a breathtaking site that I would recommend to all!

There are also a number of hiking trails located on Mount Davis, some more difficult than others. One of them (my personal favorite) leads you to Big Springs, a natural spring at the base of the mountain. At Big Springs, you are able to see the spring emerge from the bottom, causing the sand to bubble. From the road at the base of the mountain, it is approximately a 6 mile (round trip) hike. If you chose to partake on this hike, be sure to watch for rattle snakes (I have personally never had a problem with them, but have heard and spotted rattle snakes numerous times).

Another thing to do while at Site 6 is simply enjoy solitude. Build a fire, star gaze, and enjoy the company of friends. Located miles away from civilization, there are absolutely no noise restrictions. Simply enjoy.