Colton Point State Park
00 reviewC/O LEONARD HARRISON STATE PARK, 4797 Route 660, WELLSBORO, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States
Colton Point State Park
$6.50 - $6.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$6.50
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $6.50 collected via an honor system at a green fee tube located by the bulletin board.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Colton Point State Park, where rustic camping meets breathtaking vistas along the west rim of Pine Creek Gorge. This hidden gem operates on a refreshingly simple first-come, first-served basis, with an honor system for fees that harks back to simpler times. Here, you'll trade reservations and crowds for the authentic wilderness experience that draws adventurers seeking solitude and natural splendor.
Colton Point State Park accommodates those seeking primarily primitive camping, with sites that are first-come, first-served. Pets are allowed in designated areas, but pets are prohibited in the Organized Group Tenting area.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s at this living monument to the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose skilled hands shaped the park's enduring infrastructure during America's Great Depression. Today, Colton Point serves as more than just a destination—it's a gateway to adventure, marking the trailhead into the vast Tioga State Forest. Every stone wall and weathered structure tells the story of young men who transformed wilderness into accessible wonder during one of our nation's most challenging eras.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Pennsylvania's wilderness, where winter blankets the gorge in crystalline frost and snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who brave the cold. As spring awakens the forest, temperatures climb into comfortable ranges, culminating in perfectly temperate summers where shaded campsites offer cool refuge from the sun. Seasoned visitors know to seek out the park's naturally shaded spots during hot days, where gentle breezes whisper through the canopy overhead.
ElevationPerched dramatically on clifftops that soar more than 600 feet above the serpentine waters of Pine Creek below, Colton Point delivers the kind of vertigo-inducing views that make hearts race and cameras click. From these lofty heights, the world unfolds in layers of forest and stone, offering perspectives that transform with each shift of light and season.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rustic charm meets raw wilderness, and every dawn brings new wildlife encounters. Black bears lumber through morning mists, white-tailed deer bound through meadows, and wild turkeys strut across trails. Above, the magnificent silhouettes of bald eagles patrol the thermals while ravens call from ancient hemlocks. Along the waterways, lucky observers might glimpse the playful antics of recently reintroduced river otters—living proof of nature's resilience and successful conservation efforts.
Geological RegionStand at the edge of Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon, where millions of years of geological drama unfold before your eyes. Colton Point crowns the west rim of Pine Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark that showcases nature's raw power. Here, ancient glacial meltwaters carved a masterpiece through the Allegheny Plateau, creating a chasm so spectacular it rivals its famous western namesake. The exposed rock layers tell Earth's story in stone, each stratum a chapter in the epic tale of our planet's evolution.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne user review mentioned a 'handicapped accessible trail to an overlook nearby,' but no other details about accessibility features at the campground itself are provided.
Sites SizeSpecific details about the sizes of campsites are not provided in either official sources or user reviews.
Sites PrivacyNo detailed information about the privacy levels of campsites is provided. However, one user mentioned the campground as being quiet and attracting visitors without children, possibly indicating some degree of tranquility.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesQuiet sites with shade recommended for hot days; avoid steep trails if hiking with kids or pets.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites were not highlighted in authoritative or user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- No check-in time specified
- honor system allows immediate site occupation.
Check-out
No check-out time specified.
Stay Limit
Set by Pennsylvania State Park Rules, no clear numerical limit provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Groups
The Organized Group Tenting area is available, but no details are provided about the maximum number of people or vehicles allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutOrganized group tenting area and individual campsites scattered throughout the park.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operation details unclear.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform required; first-come, first-served honor system.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only; users must choose an unoccupied site upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as sites are first-come, first-served.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Colton Point State Park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and seasonal water activities such as canoeing and kayaking on Pine Creek. The park also allows hunting during the appropriate seasons and contains snowmobiling opportunities during the winter.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity at Colton Point, with trails such as the Colton Point Canyon Rim Trail and the steep Turkey Trail leading to Pine Creek. User reviews highlight the 'breathtaking' and 'moderate to strenuous' nature of the trails. One reviewer advised, 'Bring trekking poles for added balance.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted along Pine Creek, which is a designated Pennsylvania Scenic and Wild River. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Biking
Mountain biking is available within the park, although details about the trails or terrain are not provided.Boating
Canoeing, rafting, and kayaking are popular seasonal activities on Pine Creek. Specific details about boat rentals or dock facilities are not available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with species such as bear, deer, turkey, bald eagles, ravens, and occasionally river otters. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Park rangers provide educational talks on nature topics, as noted by one user review. However, specific program schedules or topics are not detailed.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling is allowed within the park during the winter months.Water Sports
Seasonal water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and rafting on Pine Creek are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings available within facilities; no specific fire policies mentioned.
- Quiet hours between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsGnats noted in user reviews; steep drop-offs on trails like Turkey Trail mentioned.
Active alertsNo cell service explicitly mentioned in user reviews, creating potential communication challenges.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger station contact (5707243061), additional emergency services information null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are provided about trash and recycling facilities. Visitors are reminded to clean and properly dispose of waste before leaving, as stated in the park's rules.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Pine Creek, designated as a Pennsylvania Scenic and Wild River; offers fishing and seasonal rafting, canoeing, and kayaking.
Common complaints'Disappointed in toilet facilities,' 'porta johns full,' and lack of maps were common issues cited in user reviews.
HostPark rangers are present for education and assistance as noted in reviews.
Campground Map
C/O LEONARD HARRISON STATE PARK, 4797 Route 660, WELLSBORO, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States
Driving directionsThe 368-acre Colton Point State Park is five miles south of US 6 at Ansonia on Colton Road.
Accessibility is good from major roads, but users should observe caution when ascending and descending the road into the park, as noted by user Jonathan Humbert.Nearby places
Wellsboro (exact distance null), Ansonia - approximately 5 miles south.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel are greater than 10 miles away from the campground area.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Colton Point State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and rustic charm of Colton Point State Park. Visitors praise the 'breathtaking views' of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, as well as the excellent hiking trails and opportunities for a quiet, back-to-nature experience. Limited amenities and lack of cell phone service were common themes.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users frequently complimented the 'beautiful and well-maintained trails,' 'stunning views,' and the park's suitability for those seeking solitude. One reviewer noted, 'This place has one of the best...
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Common Concerns
The most common complaints were about the limited facilities, including the lack of park maps, full portable toilets, and absence of firewood for purchase. One user mentioned, 'The portable toilets...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing trekking poles for steep trails, arriving early to secure a campsite, and being prepared for the lack of cell service. One reviewer advised, 'Be sure to grab a park map at...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter activities such as snowmobiling are highlighted, while summer reviews emphasize hiking and fishing. The park's remoteness and lack of facilities are consistent across seasons.
Camper Quotes
1. 'This place has one of the best sunrise views!'
2. 'THERE IS NO CELL PHONE SERVICE IN OR AROUND THIS PARK.'
3. 'The restroom facilities are glorified portapotties.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are not provided, but the campground and group camping area are described as rustic and quiet.
Accessibility Features
One review mentioned a handicapped-accessible trail to an overlook, though no further accessibility details for the campground are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed only in designated areas, and one user noted the campground seems to attract visitors without children, which may also appeal to pet owners.
Last updated August 10, 2025