Patterson State Park RV & Campground Guide
Pennsylvania
Patterson State Park is a small park located in northern Pennsylvania deep in the heart of the Susquehannock State Forest. The park spans just 10 acres and features two rustic roadside pavilions. The remote nature of the park makes it a tranquil getaway spot for outdoor lovers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. At the same time, access to the Susquehannock State Trail System provides adventure seekers with the opportunity to visit some of the most remote areas within the state of Pennsylvania.
Spring 24 - 71 F
Summer 53 - 82 F
Fall 31 - 74 F
Winter 17 - 38 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Patterson State Park
Patterson State Park does not have any designated RV campgrounds.
What to Do at
Patterson State Park
Even though Patterson State Park covers a relatively small area and lacks a main attraction, such as a lake or scenic overlook, there is still plenty to do within its boundaries. Visitors can relax at one of the two roadside pavilions and enjoy a peaceful lunch while taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding forest. One of the pavilions has a fire pit if you need to stay warm during the fall or winter months. Hikers will love the Susquehannock Trail access this park provides.
Geocaching
Geocaching is available in most of Pennsylvania’s state parks and all of its state forests. You can find one with your smartphone or GPS device. Once you do, you can take a souvenir and sign the logbook. However, remember to bring a family-friendly item to replace it with.
Nature Watching
The surrounding Susquehannock State Forest provides an excellent opportunity for nature watching. Visitors can expect to see bald eagles, coyotes, squirrels, elk, and even bobcats while hiking the trails through this forest.
Stargazing
While the park is far enough away from light pollution caused by major cities, the overhead trees can limit some of your view of the night sky. However, the stars directly overhead will be visible on a clear night.
Hiking
Patterson State Park is best known as a trailhead for the Susquehannock Trail System. This trail is an 84-mile loop that takes hikers through Potter and Clinton counties. A 10-mile stretch of this trail system navigates through the Hammersley Wild Area, one of the most remote areas in the state.
Biking
Mountain biking is available in the neighboring Susquehannock State Forest. The Billy Lewis Trail offers 14 miles of designated bike trail.
How to Get to
Patterson State Park
Patterson State Park is located at 2866 Cherry Springs Rd, Coudersport, PA 16915. If you are traveling to the park from Pittsburgh, PA, you need to take PA-28 N toward Etna, PA. Continue traveling on PA-28 N until you reach Brookville, PA where you will merge onto I-80 E. Follow I-80 E for 2.6 miles and then take exit 81 to get back onto PA-28 toward Hazen, PA. Drive another 15.6 miles on PA-28 and continue along the same route as the road turns into US-219 N. Take US-219 N until you reach the town of St. Mary’s, where you will turn right onto PA-120 E. Continue along this road until you reach PA-155 N where you will turn left. Take PA-155 N for 12.7 miles and turn right onto PA-607 S. Drive along this route for 0.8 miles and turn left onto Reed Run Rd/T-308, where you will drive for another 0.8 miles. Turn right onto Upper Bark Shanty Rd and then turn left onto PA-872 N. Take this road for 8.9 miles and then turn right onto US-6 E/E 2nd St. You will take US-6 E/E 2nd St for 2.2 miles and then turn right onto PA-44 S. This road will take you to the park entrance, which will be on your left-hand side.
Entering Patterson State Park
Patterson State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. When you enter the park, you will come upon two roadside pavilions, a registration kiosk, water access, and rustic restrooms. Parking is available in the park as it serves as a trailhead for the Susquehannock Trail.
Patterson State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Patterson State Park
The fall is the best time of year to visit Patterson State Park. The cooler temperatures and lack of humidity provide comfortable conditions to hike along the Susquehannock Trail.
Visitors have the chance to spot coyotes, elk, and bobcats while visiting the park. Birders can look forward to adding a variety of songbird and raptor species to their journals.
No, there are no designated RV camping spots in Patterson State Park. There are a few rustic campsites for tent campers and backpackers.
No, you do not need to reserve a camping spot at Patterson State Park. The few campsites that are available for tent camping are on a first-come, first-serve basis. The cost is $16 per night for residents and $21 per night for non-residents.
Yes, pets are allowed in the campground and day-use area of this park. All pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.