Poe Paddy State Park

4.59

37 reviews

C/O REEDS GAP STATE PARK, MILROY, Pennsylvania, 17063, United States

Peace & QuietStargazingFishing

Featured in:Fishing Camping Pennsylvania#3 Primitive Camping Pennsylvania Hidden Gem Campgrounds Pennsylvania +7 more

Quick Facts

1,047 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Access may be limite...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Pennsylvania State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,047 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Access may be limite...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Pennsylvania State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Poe Paddy State Park

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $15 for hike-in rustic sites to $35 for larger or more equipped sites. Additional fees may apply for specific amenities.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.59

Top-Rated

Based on 37 reviews

187 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerycleanrestrooms

Some mention

dusty

"The park receives high praise for its rustic feel, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities like fishing and hiking. However, the lack of modern amenities such as showers and cell service is noted by some."

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Campground Map

C/O REEDS GAP STATE PARK, MILROY, Pennsylvania, 17063, United States

Poe Paddy State Park

C/O REEDS GAP STATE PARK, MILROY, Pennsylvania, 17063, United States

Driving directionsFrom US 322, near the top of Seven Mountains, follow signs for Poe Valley State Park. On Big Poe Road, continue past Poe Valley State Park for three miles to Poe Paddy State Park. Stay straight; do not travel up Pine Swamp Hollow Road. From Millheim, go west on PA 45 for 1.5 miles, then follow signs south for 12 miles to the park. On Big Poe Road, continue past Poe Valley State Park for three miles to Poe Paddy State Park. Stay straight; do not travel up Pine Swamp Hollow Road.

No paved roads lead to the park. Access during winter months may be limited due to lack of winter road maintenance. Caution is advised when traveling in winter.

Nearby places

Milroy (approx. 12 miles), Millheim (approx. 1.5 miles west on PA 45), Poe Valley State Park (3 miles from Poe Paddy State Park)

Nearby supplies

Within 10 miles: nearest camp store

Over 10 miles: nearest laundromat outside the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Poe Paddy State Park

Each season paints Poe Paddy in dramatically different hues. Summer brings ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures perfect for creek adventures and shaded forest camping. Spring and fall showcase nature's transitions with wildflowers and autumn colors respectively. Winter transforms the park into a pristine wonderland, though adventurous spirits should note that roads remain unmaintained during snowy months, adding an extra layer of remoteness to this already secluded retreat. Throughout every season, the park maintains its signature serenity, offering a peaceful escape regardless of when you visit.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in PA

Summer provides shaded camping, ideal creek activities and the green drake hatch in June.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall colors and cooler hiking conditions make the park very appealing in autumn.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring offers good hiking and fishing; mayfly/green drake season peaks in late spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Access may be limited in winter due to unmaintained roads; limited winter recreation.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No explicit peak season dates provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Access may be limited during winter months due to unmaintained roads.
Current Alerts: No explicit active alerts provided.

About Poe Paddy State Park

Hidden deep within the emerald embrace of dense Pennsylvania forests, Poe Paddy State Park awaits those seeking genuine wilderness solitude. Where Big Poe Creek meets the legendary Penns Creek, this secluded sanctuary offers a rare escape from the modern world. Here, rustic campsites nestle among towering trees, providing just enough comfort for adventurers who prefer their nature experiences unfiltered. Days unfold with the gentle rhythm of fly fishing in world-class trout waters, peaceful paddles in canoe or inner tube, and forest trails that lead deeper into the heart of untamed beauty. With minimal amenities by design, Poe Paddy invites you to reconnect with the essential elements of outdoor life.

Poe Paddy State Park caters primarily to tent camping and group camping, with no RV hookups or cabin lodging available.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Poe Paddy in dramatically different hues. Summer brings ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures perfect for creek adventures and shaded forest camping. Spring and fall showcase nature's transitions with wildflowers and autumn colors respectively. Winter transforms the park into a pristine wonderland, though adventurous spirits should note that roads remain unmaintained during snowy months, adding an extra layer of remoteness to this already secluded retreat. Throughout every season, the park maintains its signature serenity, offering a peaceful escape regardless of when you visit.

ElevationNestled within the rolling ridges and valleys of Bald Eagle State Forest, Poe Paddy sits at a comfortable moderate elevation typical of central Pennsylvania's mountainous terrain. This positioning creates the perfect microclimate for both the dense forest ecosystem and the cool, clear streams that have made the area famous among outdoor enthusiasts.

Natural Features and SceneryThe convergence of Big Poe Creek and Penns Creek creates a stunning aquatic crossroads surrounded by the vast green tapestry of Bald Eagle State Forest. Ancient hemlocks and hardwoods tower overhead, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Penns Creek, celebrated worldwide among fly fishing enthusiasts, flows with pristine waters that harbor native trout populations. The surrounding woodland bursts with biodiversity, from delicate wildflowers carpeting the understory to the calls of woodland birds echoing through the trees.

Geological RegionPoe Paddy occupies a remarkable geological setting where two pristine mountain streams converge within the rugged terrain of Bald Eagle State Forest. This confluence has carved out a natural amphitheater of sorts, surrounded by the ancient ridges and valleys that define central Pennsylvania's landscape. The area's geology tells a story millions of years in the making, with exposed rock formations, creek-carved valleys, and the enduring presence of dense forests that have reclaimed this land. The rugged topography creates countless microenvironments, from sunny creek banks to cool, shaded hollows.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not specified

Check-out

Not specified

Stay Limit

Permit Conditions: Guests can stay up to 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.

Groups

The park offers an organization campsite for larger groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSmall park with 50 campsites, including tent sites and an organization campsite. Sites are described as spacious and well-maintained.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Pennsylvania state park systems or platforms.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not specified, but remote location suggests limited impromptu availability.

Cancellation PolicyPermit may be revoked for violations. No explicit cancellation deadline provided.

AccessibilityRestrooms and certain facilities have some level of accessibility, though overall handicap access is limited.

Site SizeCampsites are spacious and well-prepared for tents. Sites along Penns Creek are favored for their proximity to water.

PrivacyThe sites vary in privacy, with some being fairly secluded while others are closer together. Sites near the road may lack privacy.

Total Campsites50 campsites

Recommended SitesSites close to streams are highly recommended for a serene camping experience. Avoid sites adjacent to the dusty road.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The park offers diverse recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, tubing, biking, and wildlife observation. It is known for trout fishing, particularly during the green drake mayfly hatch in June. "The hiking and biking trails go on for miles," notes Jayson Rogers. Winter activities such as snowmobiling are also available in surrounding areas.

HikingHiking trails within the surrounding Bald Eagle State Forest vary in difficulty and length. The Mid State Trail is a notable hiking option in the area.

FishingTrout fishing in Big Poe Creek and Penns Creek is a highlight, especially during the green drake mayfly hatch in June. Fly fishing is highly recommended.

BikingBiking trails in the area are enjoyable, with varying terrain suitable for different skill levels.

BoatingA small non-powered boat launch is available for canoes and tubes.

Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant, with porcupines frequently spotted according to user Bob Burkhart.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include unmaintained winter roads, isolated location, and presence of bears (bear-proof garbage containers are available).

Active AlertsNo explicit active alerts provided.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof garbage containers provided. Exact details of food storage lockers not specified.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed. Plenty of wood available per user reviews.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Noise restrictions between 9 PM and 8 AM.

Emergency ServicesCoburn Ambulance Service, 136 Poe Valley Park Circle, Coburn, PA 16832 (nearest hospital and ambulance service).

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof garbage containers are available for trash disposal; recycling details are not specified.

Water FeaturesLocated at the confluence of Big Poe Creek and Penns Creek. Water activities include trout fishing, inner tubing, and canoeing.

Camp HostNo explicit host information provided.

Weather at Poe Paddy State Park

Reviews

4.6

37 reviews

Top-Rated

Poe Paddy State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The park receives high praise for its rustic feel, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities like fishing and hiking. However, the lack of modern amenities such as showers and cell service is noted by some.

Review Summaries

Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the clean restrooms, abundant wildlife, serene environment, and great fishing opportunities. The trails were also highly praised for their variety and scenery.

Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mentioned the difficulty of accessing the park due to long, dusty roads. The absence of showers and flush toilets was a drawback for others.

Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Download music or maps in advance due to no cell service. Bring trash bags, as some overlooks in the area may have litter. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for easier access.

Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fishing is most popular in June during the green drake mayfly hatch. Winter access can be limited due to unmaintained roads.

Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Loved this park! Stayed in a rustic site, bathrooms were clean and water available." - Gary Rowe. "The tubing was perfect. The bike riding was fun. The service was friendly." - Leonmary Brubaker....

Based on 37 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites close to the creek are highly recommended for their scenic views. However, sites near the road are considered less desirable due to proximity to dust and noise.

Based on 37 reviews

Accessibility Features

Handicap access is limited, though some facilities are partially accessible.

Based on 37 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in designated areas, and tubing with dogs is a popular activity.

Based on 37 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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