Bucktail State Park Natural Area Campground
Bucktail stretches along the West Branch Susquehanna River for nearly 30 miles, offering primitive camping at designated spots along the scenic drive. The sites are basic — cleared areas with fire rings and vault toilets scattered along the route. It’s popular with anglers and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for the Quehanna Wild Area’s extensive trail system just to the north. Sites vary from riverside spots to wooded areas back from the water.
The campground follows PA Route 120 from Emporium to Lock Haven, with sites accessible directly from the paved road. Some spots get busy during trout season in spring and fall. No hookups or showers — this is true primitive camping in a beautiful river valley setting.
Primitive riverside camping along scenic mountain highway
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | PA 120, Shippen Township, Pennsylvania 15834 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Emporium, PA |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 25 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | April-November |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Shade, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
