Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, a diverse state in the northeastern United States, showcases a rich tapestry of landscapes, from the urban sprawl of Philadelphia to the scenic beauty of the Pocono Mountains and the rural charm of Amish country. This webpage zeroes in on free camping opportunities on both state and federal lands, including the renowned Allegheny National Forest. Alongside the allure of camping, Pennsylvania beckons outdoor enthusiasts with a plethora of activities. Hiking trails weave through lush woodlands, while biking routes traverse picturesque terrains. The state’s waterways offer kayaking and boating adventures, from serene lakes to rushing rivers. With its blend of natural wonders and recreational possibilities, Pennsylvania entices adventurers to explore its diverse terrain, enjoy free camping, and engage in an array of outdoor activities within its breathtaking landscapes.

Between Ormsby and Smethport You Loose About 500 feet Elevation

Ormsby is located at the edge of Allegheny Plateau and the Long Level is at 2,100 feet elevation while the farm on the right, located on the outskirts of Smethport is about 1,600 feet. It is a pretty good drop into the gorge along PA 59, although at least the road is relatively straight and wide.

White’s Island, Penna

Jim Inch’s story began in Snyder County before his father Robert rented a house, then owned by the power company, on White Island.

In 1944, Robert swapped five mules—his farming power source—for a down payment on an International Harvester F-12. He planted 65 acres of feed corn, cultivated it three times, hired men to hand-husk it, then paid them with corn, leaving plenty for his corncrib.

Later that season, he learned that his down payment covered the tractor, and he even received a $200 rebate on it. The next year, he planted 36 more acres of corn on White’s Island.

“Dad said right then that he should have quit farming while he was ahead,” says Jim, 81. “You can be rich one day and poor the next in this business.”

Jim, though retired, still works seven days a week. He lives on another farm owned by Roy Adams & Son, Inc., which now has the unique farming rights to White’s and three other islands in the Susquehanna.

Tammy Wolfe, Roy Adams’ daughter and office manager in Sunbury, PA, says most don’t realize how hard farmers work, where food comes from or how technology-based today’s farming is. “We’re proud of that work and proud to be a part of it,” she says.

https://www.susquehannalife.com/2016/06/06/113206/tell-us-your-story-farming-susquehanna-river-islands

Harrisburg Incinerator

Since 1972, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania has burned municipal trash in an incinerator downtown and landfilled the unburnable trash on site.

LEFT - 1993
RIGHT - 2019