Ironwood Trail & Private Campground

99%

135 reviews

· Boyertown, Berks, Pennsylvania · 5 acres

Hosted by David W.

Tent site

· 4 guests max

David is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

All to yourself

96% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

It took seven years to carve this winding trail and two-level scenic campsite into the wooded hill behind our home. Now completed, I feel inspired to share their solitude and beauty with others who will appreciate it. From the top of a steep drive, a brief but precipitous hike leads you high up very quickly through a mature forest to some steps that lead the first of two camping locations leveled within clefts of rocks forming a pair of overlooks. A soft, level campsite awaits you there under a canopy of trees where you will find everything you'll need for a small-scale deep forest outing. The lower level either stands alone (1-2 persons) or serves as a base camp for the Northwest Expansion area (3-4 persons) a very short hike away. (Please inquire about additional campers.) The expansion features a roomy 13 x 15ft groomed tenting surface, a stone fire ring with steel fire pit, and plenty of extra space to spread out. It provides an additional layer of privacy and a (leaf-permitting) northwest view that usually includes a sunset. [Note: Reservations include use of both the lower level and the upper Northwest Expansion camping areas. Keep in mind that the technical nature of the trail and terrain makes it unsuitable for most children under 10 years old.] Hundreds of feet away, there are a few homes residing below the camps, but you are high enough above the world below to enjoy a sense of separation from it. Were these camping areas part of any state or commercial campground in Pennsylvania they would easily be among the best tenting sites in the state. Even among Hipcamps we were awarded a top-ten rating in 2018 and 2019+ - and we've improved since then. People love it here. Guests will find a huge, well-stocked chest of supplies at the lower level to furnish virtually any extra thing(s) that may help you camp in comfort, from a Coleman cookstove and table, an air pump, a kettle, a 8x10 tarp, plates and cups and cutlery-there's even a Scrabble game and playing cards. You get the idea. ** We ask our guests to arrive prepared with their own supplies and to use the supply box as a backup for items that may have been forgotten or to fill in for things they do not want to purchase for a single outing.** (Please do not depend solely on the camp supplies to meet ALL of your camping needs!) We took items on most camping lists and tried to have them waiting in the box so you can visit without worrying about forgetting anything. Firewood bundles can be purchased at any time during your stay. We try to keep an abundant supply in a woodpile at the trailhead that you purchase as needed via cash, Paypal or Venmo. Wood can easily be gathered, there are even hatchets and hand saws in the supply box for cutting fallen branches down to size. We also provide a two-person hammock, plastic Adirondack chairs, battery powered lanterns, citronella torches, etc. Cell chargers and jugs of drinking water are available upon request. The woods are teeming with resident species of woodpeckers, owls, warblers and more, and vultures and hawks and can almost always be seen riding thermals overhead. If you're lucky the turkeys will come to roost in the woods above the area as they often do. The best part is that no one else will know you are up there. In addition to overnight stays, daytime and evening hours are available too for morning bird walks, lunch breaks, herbal retreats, sunset cookouts--whatever guests might imagine doing in the privacy of the outdoors. Tree climbing and treetop camping are welcome and encouraged for anyone looking for a good place to hang their gear and enjoy the view. There are scores of great campsites waiting to be discovered up there for experienced and responsible climbers. Please check out our reviews for more relevant details and feedback from our guests. We hope to see you here sometime soon! Life in the forest is good! We have reopened for summer and fall bookings and made even more improvements to our land. Our rocky but welcoming forest is home to a rich array of trees and wildlife as well as an always private two-level campsite constructed among them. A multi-year "Top Ten in Pennsylvania" Hipcamp award winner, we have worked hard to create a unique and memorable place to pitch your tent and stay awhile. Nearby hiking, climbing, fishing, paddling and cycling options make Ironwood a great choice for those who seek them as well as for those who are simply looking for some solitude and a place to relax in the outdoors. Ironwood Trail's property represents the northernmost reaches of the Hopewell Big Woods, the largest contiguous forested area remaining in Southeastern Pennsylvania. The area is considered to be part of the Schuylkill Highlands and Pine Forge is a stop along both the Iron and Steel Trail and the Forging Freedom Tour as designated by the National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum. French Creek State Park, Birdsboro Climbing Quarry, and the Schuylkill Multi-use Trail are nearby, and the Daniel Boone Homestead, Hopewell Furnace, and other historic sites provide rewarding destinations for history seekers. The two camping areas are constructed high on a property adjacent to and above a second property where our home is. The upper lot is such an appealing woodland that we instantly wanted to find a way to enjoy it, so we started clearing a trail. We were determined to move the stones needed to build a path that would traverse the elevated forest and ravine. Once we found the perfect place, we moved boulders, rocks and dirt for weeks to create a small level campsite. Eight years and thousands of stones later, the trail to the site was completed in 2016. The result is something much more elegant than we had envisioned, we knew right away that we had something special. In 2019 a second, much larger camping area was added by popular demand to accommodate larger groups and bigger tents. It's a small additional hike to access it, but there is a reward for your efforts. Sunset views and treetop surroundings are even more impressive here. Enjoy a campfire in raised steel firepits and kick back in a comfortable chair. This trail leads to a beautiful place hidden among the trees, we hope you'll find some of what you're looking for here.

What to expect

Tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

4 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit, private. There are two campfires with a steel raised fire pits, one at the lower site and one at the upper. Some firewood is provided with kindling, matches, etc. Charcoal and lighter fluid are available in the supply chest. A rainwater bucket gathers water to dowse the fire if necessary.

Toilet available

Portable toilet. There is a Luggable Loo portable toilet in a private enclosure; plastic bags are provided and YOU will absolutely need to pack up and pack out any waste you leave behind. There is also an outstanding county park 1.5 miles away with public restrooms (seasonal). Several other public restrooms are available less than 10 minutes away, some 24/7. (CVS, Giant, McDonald’s, Redner’s, Rite-aid, Target, Walmart, Wawa, to name a few). Ironwood Trail is located in a quiet secluded valley, but we are conveniently close to everything.

Pets allowed

On leash. Please tell me in advance if you are planning to bring a dog. Your dog is welcome here if it is quiet and well-behaved and does not stray far from the campsite. Unfortunately our new neighbor's dog has been ranging off their property onto the edge of mine so care is going to need to be taken. Dogs must absolutely not be left unattended at your site. If we are available, we will sometimes agree to watch your dog for you while you go fly fishing or need to run out for an errand on a hot day. We are dog people and will enjoy yours as long as it does not present a problem.

Potable water available

Bottled water or jugs. 2.5 gallon Thermos of outstanding fresh water provided. Additional 1 Gallon jug(s) of spring water will be located at the trailhead. We can replenish the water supply during your stay if needed, just drop us a text.

Bins available

Recycling bin, trash bin. There is a 5 gallon trash can at the site (trash bags are provided) and a recycling basket. We will pack it out for you either upon your request or after you leave.

Cooking equipment present

Grill over firepit, private, stovetop or hot plate, sink or other dishwashing station. Our supply box is loaded with everything you'll need but food. There is a basin with all you'd need to wash dishes. (This may be most useful if you are staying for two or more days.)

Wifi available

Currently a 2.4GHz signal from a wifi extender in the woods reliably reaches the camping area. An additional 5GHz signal is available as you descend to the parking area. Signal reception varies according to device/antenna/type.

No showers

Picnic table absent

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Check out: Before 11:00 AM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Flexible

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Short walk

No wheelchair access

Max 3 vehicles

2WD accessible

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

99% Recommend169 ratings · 135 reviews

David's campsite offers a peaceful and private retreat nestled within beautiful woods, making it a favorite for many returning visitors. The hike to the site is short but steep, adding a sense of adventure and rewarding campers with a secluded atmosphere. While some reviews mention occasional noise from nearby roads or neighbors, the site itself is well-maintained, equipped with thoughtful touches, and provides a safe environment for solo travelers. David, as a host, is noted for his friendliness and willingness to ensure a positive experience, even during unforeseen circumstances like fire bans.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Matthew W.

6 reviews

Recommends

· November 2024

Tent

It was a great and private little spot. Make sure to bring a backpack to get everything up the hill because you're probably not going to want to make several runs up and down the hill! You can tell David cares very much about his property and wants you to have a great time. I appreciate everything!

Hector D.

6 months on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· November 2024

Tent · With pets

The host Dave was really nice and well organized . I don’t think there is anything that he could improve on. We had a bad luck because a fire ban was called just the day before camping but Dave was understanding and empathetic about our situation. He was willing to work with us even if we had decided to cancel. The camping sites are really nice. We just didn’t like how noisy it gets a night with very loud car engines along the road but it has nothing to do with the site or the host. All in all, we had a good time.

Sonny M.

6 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent · With pets

Beautiful venue hidden away from everything, that is also close to places like birdsboro for climbing! Host was very receptive when we arrived.

Nicole O.

6 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Perfect for a Mock Backpacking Test

Tent

This site had exactly what I was looking for on my first Mock Backpacking trip. The "hike" to the site was steep in some areas so slightly challenging but not long at all. The first bottom site is quite small so I wouldn't put more than a 1 person tent on it unless you move the chairs the host provides but the top site is large and totally worth the extra climb. The host is wonderful, very informative and kind.

Nikki P.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent · With pets

David and the camp are great. Short but steep hike up. Beautiful woods. There was some extra firewood which was great but always good to bring your own just in case. The dogs loved it too. A little bit of noise from nearby neighbors but that’s a given on a Saturday. Didn’t make the evening any less enjoyable and it was quiet by 10:30. Will definitely be back.

Gabriel G.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent · With pets

What a sweet place for a quick camping trip. David was very helpful and explanatory, the site was exactly as advertised, and we had a very nice time. Thank you!

Location

Boyertown, Berks, Pennsylvania, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Lenapehoking (Lenni-Lenape) First Nations according to

Native Land Digital.

To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking