Patterson State Park

Star4.33
15 reviews
C/O LYMAN RUN S P, 454 LYMAN RUN ROAD, GALETON, Pennsylvania, 16922, United States
Stargazing

Quick Facts

2,467 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

No specific open/clo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

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Patterson State Park
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
User reviews mention an overnight fee of $35 per night for primitive camping.
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.33

Recommended

Based on 15 reviews

71 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanwater

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the park's peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and convenient location. However, some users noted road noise and limited privacy due to the park's roadside location."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

C/O LYMAN RUN S P, 454 LYMAN RUN ROAD, GALETON, Pennsylvania, 16922, United States

Patterson State Park

C/O LYMAN RUN S P, 454 LYMAN RUN ROAD, GALETON, Pennsylvania, 16922, United States

Driving directionsPatterson State Park is 6.5 miles south of Sweden Valley on PA 44.
Access to Patterson State Park is via PA Route 44, which is paved. Road noise is mentioned in reviews, but traffic is light, making it relatively accessible.
Nearby places
Sweden Valley (6.5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Cherry Springs State Park (a few miles away)
Nearby supplies
Gasoline, nearest camp store, and laundromat are all available greater than 10 miles away from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Patterson State Park

Winter transforms Patterson into a crystalline wonderland, with freezing temperatures creating perfect conditions for snowmobiling adventures through snow-laden forests. The park experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, but savvy campers know to watch for those magical weeks of clear skies and dry conditions—ideal windows for pitching your tent under star-filled heavens. Each season paints the surrounding hardwoods in different hues, from spring's tender greens to autumn's fiery display.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Good for stargazing and hiking but reviewers warn it can be 'too hot'; mixed summer feedback.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Reviews explicitly: 'Best to go in the fall or spring' for views and comfort.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Reviews list spring as a top season; pleasant hiking and scenic conditions noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5

Winter offers snowmobiling and cross-country skiing and 'crystalline wonderland' scenery.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: No specific open/closed seasons are mentioned.

About Patterson State Park

Tucked along a quiet roadside in the heart of Pennsylvania's untamed wilderness, Patterson State Park offers an intimate escape for those seeking simplicity and adventure. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the renowned Susquehannock Trail System, where tent-only campsites provide a peaceful basecamp for backpackers and nature enthusiasts. Two rustic picnic pavilions invite leisurely afternoon gatherings, while modern conveniences remain minimal—just a vaulted toilet and the endless expanse of forest. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for a multi-day trek, readying your snowmobile for winter trails, or seeking prime hunting grounds, this modest park punches above its weight as an outdoor recreation hub.
Patterson State Park caters primarily to primitive and tent campers, with approximately a dozen non-reservable campsites. The park does not accommodate RVs, cabins, or glamping options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified, but payment is made via honor system.
Check-out
Check-out time is 3 p.m. as stated in one user review.
Stay Limit
No maximum stay limit is specified in the authoritative content.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Patterson State Park offers a blend of recreational activities, including hiking on the Susquehannock Trail System, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, picnicking, and stargazing. The remote location and nearby Cherry Springs State Park make it an ideal spot for night sky observation.
HikingThe park serves as a trailhead for the 85-mile Susquehannock Trail System, which is a favorite among backpackers. Easy access to hiking trails is noted in user reviews.
BikingA trail suitable for mountain biking connects Patterson State Park to Cherry Springs State Park, as noted in user reviews.
Wildlife viewingThe park's location in northern hardwoods within the Susquehannock State Forest offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include proximity to a roadside which may reduce privacy and safety concerns related to mild traffic.

Weather at Patterson State Park

Reviews

4.3
15 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Patterson State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the park's peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and convenient location. However, some users noted road noise and limited privacy due to the park's roadside location.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean vault toilets, accessible water pump, proximity to Cherry Springs State Park, stargazing opportunities, and first-come, first-serve system are praised.
Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

Road noise, limited privacy, and the perceived high cost of primitive camping were common concerns.
Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a spot as campsites are non-reservable. Bring all necessary supplies since amenities are limited and the nearest camp store is over 10 miles away.
Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Stargazing and clear skies are frequently mentioned by summer visitors. Winter visitors appreciate the snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities.
Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

'A very nice, little roadside picnicking and camping state park located in the PA Wilds.' - G. Funk; 'Beautiful spot to camp under the stars. Friendly and helpful park staff. Clean bathrooms.' - Cody...
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Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites are noted to include tables and utility hooks. Specific site numbers were not mentioned.
Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility were found.
Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the park, and users have noted that dogs are welcome.
Based on 15 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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