Camping options near Blossburg, Pennsylvania include both established campgrounds and more remote sites within state forests. The region sits in north-central Pennsylvania's Tioga County, an area characterized by rolling mountains, hardwood forests, and numerous waterways with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the 70s-80s°F with cooler evenings in the 50s-60s°F, while spring and fall bring wider temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Hiking the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon: Lyman Run State Park serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby Pine Creek Gorge, often called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. "We like staying at Lyman Run since Cherry Springs gets filled pretty quickly. Lyman Run campground is great. There are 2 campgrounds, one right by the lake (larger) and one a little further away (smaller). We prefer the smaller one," notes Peggy S. from Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Fishing in local waters: The area offers several fishing spots with various catch possibilities. "Pretty easy to catch some trout and blue gill," reports Joshua L. about fishing at Lyman Run. Nearby Tompkins Campground provides additional water recreation as one reviewer mentions: "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy."
Stargazing opportunities: The region is known for exceptional dark skies, particularly around Cherry Springs State Park. Bill G. explains from Stony Fork Creek Campground: "We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park. We had no issues here and would recommend." The area provides excellent opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campers appreciate the tranquil setting found at campgrounds in the region. "It was so quiet and peaceful, did not even notice other campers around. (I can't speak for the Daggett Run side though). Bathhouse was very clean," shares Michelle L. about her stay at Lyman Run State Park.
Clean facilities: Tompkins Campground receives praise for its maintenance standards. "It is always clean. There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," notes Stacey C. Similarly, Greg W. remarks about Stony Fork Creek: "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times."
Spacious campsites: The size of campsites varies between locations, but several campgrounds offer room to spread out. "Nice area lots to do in the area if you are ok driving to different places," mentions Brandon W. about Stony Fork Creek Campground, while another camper notes about the same location: "All of the roads were paved and sites were very large."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, which appeals to those wanting to disconnect but requires planning. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," warns Brandon W. about Stony Fork Creek Campground. Similarly, Katie S. notes about Lyman Run State Park: "No cell service, so you really get to get away from everything."
Campsite proximity varies: Some campgrounds feature sites closer together than others. "Sites were a little too close together... We booked a tent site, and there was only one small patch of grass where we could set up our tent," mentions Gina M. about her Lyman Run experience, while another camper notes: "the sites are in a long row. It looks like they are about 50% seasonal."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically closing during winter months. The Lyman Run State Park season runs "2nd Friday April to December," while Tompkins Campground operates from "mid May-late Sep."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation: Big Trail Road Sites in Tiadaghton State Forest provide a more primitive camping experience but with access to outdoor activities. While lacking showers, these sites include toilets and fire rings, allowing families to experience a more rustic adventure while still having basic necessities.
Beach access: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with amenities for children. "Had a good time fishing at the lake and stopping for ice cream at the beach shop is a must!" recommends Michelle L. about Lyman Run, which offers a concession stand by the lake.
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with varied recreation possibilities to keep children engaged. "The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals," shares MJ B. about the amenities at Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Paved sites: Tompkins Campground receives positive reviews from RV campers for its infrastructure. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," notes Bran P., adding details about specific sites: "Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground."
Hookup availability: When traveling with an RV, check campground amenities carefully as they vary significantly. Stony Fork Creek Campground offers electric, water, and sewer hookups for RVs, while more primitive sites in state forests may have limited or no hookup options.
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions and amenities. "We were able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers," shares MJ B. about Stony Fork Creek, adding that "the ground was grassy and level."
