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Cedar Run, Pennsylvania sits at the heart of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region, offering a diverse selection of established campgrounds. Pettecote Junction Campground provides facilities right along Pine Creek with access to the rail trail, making it popular for kayakers and cyclists. The nearby state parks, including Leonard Harrison, Cherry Springs, and Ole Bull State Parks, accommodate tent campers, RVs, and cabin stays. Most campgrounds in the area are developed with varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to full hookup RV sites with electric, water, and sewer connections. The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon (Pine Creek Gorge) serves as a central attraction for most visitors to the region.
Road conditions throughout the area are generally good during the primary camping season, which runs from April through October for most campgrounds. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few facilities like Happy Acres Resort operating year-round. "This place is removed from commercialize chaos that is found at many campgrounds, it is clean, well managed and quiet," noted one camper about Pettecote Junction. Many campgrounds in this region have limited or no cell service, particularly those in the more remote parts of the state forests. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays, especially during summer months and fall foliage season when the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon attracts significant visitors. Most campgrounds have a mix of reservation and first-come sites, with state parks typically offering the most structured reservation systems.
Waterfront camping ranks highly among visitor preferences in the Cedar Run area, with Pine Creek access being a significant draw. Canyon Country Campground and Pettecote Junction both receive positive reviews for their proximity to natural features and outdoor recreation. As one visitor described, "Pettecote Junction campground is nestled in the PA Grand Canyon with Pine Creek on one side and the Rails to Trails on the other of the campground. This ideal location provides a nice tranquil environment with opportunities for active adventures." Fishing, kayaking and cycling on the Pine Creek Rail Trail are popular activities, with several campgrounds offering equipment rentals. Families often prefer campgrounds with amenities like swimming pools and recreation centers, while those seeking solitude might find better options at the state forest campgrounds or primitive sites along the creek.
"It was a lovely 2-night stay and awesome area to explore as we discovered the “Pennsylvania Grand Canyon”!!! Who knew!?"
"Sites 6 and 8, while close to the bathhouse, would likely have people walking through your site to get to the bathhouse. Campers have worn a path between these sites to access it."
from $20 - $29 / night
Check Availability"It is my escape away from technology and my time to be one with nature."
"Absolutely beautiful well kept campground situated between Pine Creek and the rail trail! Great facilities...there's even glamping tents!"
from $30 - $100 / night
Check Availability"Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean. So many outdoor activities abound."
"Very nice PA State Park Campground. 30/50A pedestals, but water is available only at scattered nearby potable hydrants to fill tanks."
from $20 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Each campsite had a fire pit and a picnic table and most had trees behind them. We stayed in a drive up site that was close to the restrooms and had a clear field near us to look up and stargaze."
"A little off the beaten path, but definitely a good find away from that light pollution and with other like minded souls!"
from $16 / night
Check Availability"Electric sites are available with water access to fill tanks but no water hookups. "
"Ole Bull State Park and the Surrounding  Susquehannock State Forest are breathtaking and certainly live up Potter County’s nickname of Gods Country."
from $20 - $43 / night
Check Availability"Was 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."
"Stony Fork Creek is beautiful and offers nearby hiking trails, a lake, and activities."
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"The surrounding area is loaded with things to do as well if you feel like venturing out. Cherry Springs Dark Park is just up the road but the view from our tent was just as good."
"Our trip was for astrophotography purposes, and Lyman Run is only a 10 minute drive away from the Cherry Springs viewing area. Totally worth it!"
from $20 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Incredible views, nicknamed the Grand Canyons of Pennsylvania"
"I loved that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people. ~$20 a night which isn't to bad."
"Sites are not very level nor private, but the staff is great and the grounds are walking distance to the canyon. Met some great fellow campers here, biked the river trail, and hiked the state park."
"Minutes away from a town and the gorge. Hiking trail from the campground to the gorge! Highly recommended!!"
from $40 - $60 / night
Check Availability"The camp ground fire wood was kiln dried but cost $15 for a bag that lasted less than a day (and we used it pretty sparingly) so I would suggest buying wood nearby where it can be found much cheaper (please"
"We ended up getting a corner site right on the edge of a hill looking down on the main office and playground. It was perfect. Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages."
TravelerThey have 30 amp sites. No water but there is a dump station. Bring your Starlink there is no cell signal. Bathrooms are decent. Good Stargazing(head to nearby Cherry Springs). This is one of the most “out of the way” places in the eastern US. Not quite boon docking but close. There is a guy on the corner that sells firewood. Download maps to get in and out. Listen for the Elk. Watch for Bears.
TravelerLeonard Harrison State Park sits directly on the ridge of the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Great hiking trails 800 feet down into the gorge where there is a flat rail trail of 65 miles for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The campsites are roomy and set far apart. There are only about 30 sites and just 8 of them or so have electric. Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located and very clean. No cell service whatsoever, so bring your board games and cards.
GuideThe campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.
The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.
One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.
GuideThe campsite is located about three miles down from Cherry Springs State Park and Campground, just off the road. It is visible from the road, so if complete privacy is important to you, keep that in mind. That said, the setting itself is beautiful, especially the drive in through the tall pine forests which immediately gave the area a peaceful feel.
The site has two good level tent spots and one semi level spot, all within view of where you park, which made unloading and setup easy. It took me roughly an hour to get camp fully set up. One thing to know going in: there is absolutely no cell service at least with T mobile, which can either be a huge positive or a dealbreaker depending on what you’re looking for.
One of the best features of the site is a nice trail leading back to a creek that you can hear flowing from camp. I spent some time walking along it and tossed a fishing line in a few times. The current was moving pretty fast and I did not see signs of fish during my visit, but it was still a relaxing place to explore.
Firewood was a mixed bag. There are plenty of fallen trees around, but much of it was surrounded by poison ivy, so gathering wood took a little caution. Bugs were present enough that I ended up using a head net in the evening, especially after dark.
For stargazing, the location was solid. I stayed up late and managed to catch three shooting stars. I brought a telescope but the angle of the sky from my setup made it harder to use than expected. If astronomy is your main goal, you may still want to head up to Cherry Springs proper for the best viewing experience.
Overall, this is a peaceful, simple campsite with good access to nature and a quiet atmosphere. Best suited for people who are okay disconnecting completely, enjoy creekside wandering and do not mind a more rustic experience. I would camp here again, especially for a quick getaway near Cherry Springs.
GuideThis is a full service RV campground with nightly and seasonal stays. I was tent camping and, unlike most RV campgrounds, the dedicated tent area was very nice and right on the river. There’s a camp store, laundromat, showers and many different boats available for rent right in the campground. Very well run place and everything looked well kept.
The sites face a small mountain wall with the river at the base so very scenic. The river is fairly fast running so boating and swimming are for older kids/adults in this area or put in someplace calmer.
For those riding the MABDR, this is only 5 mins off the trail and a good place to relax before the final 70 miles through the PA Grand Canyon.
GuideSite SS007 sits roughly two miles off pavement along a fairly rough access road. A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions.
The location offers excellent views of the Susquehanna River and exceptionally clear night skies with strong stargazing opportunities. There was no existing fire ring on site, so we built one using nearby stones. The site does not include a picnic table or other amenities, making it a primative experience.
Cell service was limited but usable, averaging about one bar with AT&T and two bars with T-Mobile.
Overall, it is a quiet, scenic roadside site best suited for campers comfortable with minimal facilities and no other people around.
ScoutEveryone here was helpful and friendly. It is extremely clean and well run while the showers and laundry room could use a little facelift but clean clean clean.
TravelerWe camped for the first time here in June 2025 for a few nights. The lower campground is nicely situated right next to the creek, perfect for fishing. I will say some of the sites a very tight if you have a large camper. The bathhouse was very clean and modern. The state park itself is okay. Not one of my favorites.
TravelerWe absolutely love camping here, we've been at multiple sites, electric only and full hookup and they never disappoint. The sites are big and spaced far apart. Its a quiet park at night, but thers plenty to do during the day.
Dispersed camping options near Cedar Run, Pennsylvania are limited due to the region's land management policies. Most camping in this area occurs at developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,900 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between the canyon rim and floor. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the area, with signal typically available only at higher elevations and near larger towns.
Stargazing at Cherry Springs State Park: Located about 40 minutes from Cedar Run, this internationally recognized Dark Sky Park offers exceptional night viewing. "If you go purely for the star gazing... From cherry springs you can easily access Sinnemahoning, Lyman Run, Ole Bull, Patterson, and Kettle Creek," notes a visitor to Cherry Springs State Park.
Hiking the Turkey Path Trail: This steep but rewarding trail descends into the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. "At the bottom you will pass the rails to trail and run into pine creek. If you walk to the left to where it gets deep. You will find some of the best fishing ever," reports a camper at Leonard Harrison State Park.
Kayaking Pine Creek: The waterway running through the canyon offers excellent paddling opportunities. "The location of PJC is perfect for fishing, floating/kayaking, and biking/hiking the rails to trail. There are many nearby hikes throughout the canyon for the more adventures travelers," writes a visitor about Pettecote Junction Campground.
Direct creek access: Many campers prefer sites situated along Pine Creek for water activities. "We stated in one of the water/electric hook-up sites along the creek, which was wonderful. Very flat and larger than average in size, which was nice not being on top of your neighbor," reports a Pettecote Junction visitor.
Dark skies for astronomy: The region's minimal light pollution attracts stargazers. "Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars," explains a camper at Lyman Run State Park.
Close proximity to trails: The Pine Creek Rail Trail provides an accessible recreation option. "The campground is situated directly next to the beautiful and accessible overlook area with new restrooms and completely new outdoor area to explore the canyon views and get direct access to hiking trails," notes a visitor to Leonard Harrison State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Many camping sites near Cedar Run close during winter months. "Winter camping options are restricted to a few year-round facilities. "We stayed here Wednesday through Saturday of Labor Day weekend. On Wednesday and Thursday nights there were about 5 sites that were taken. By Friday they were all full," reports a Leonard Harrison visitor.
Limited connectivity: Cell service remains inconsistent across the area. "What saved this place from total mediocrity is its location right on the river...while I couldn't see the river from my campsite due to brush, it was clearly audible, which was nice," writes a visitor to Pettecote Junction.
Reservation recommendations: Book early for peak times. "We have been coming to this area for years and this is the first time we were lucky to snag a site for a Holiday weekend. We won't stay anywhere else from now on," notes a recent camper at Pettecote Junction.
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers we're clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," writes a camper at Happy Acres Resort.
Educational opportunities: The visitor centers enhance children's experiences. "The campground had nice & clean restrooms and shower areas. And a larger room that's perfect for camping families with little ones so you can shower & use the restroom all in a one single, larger secure room," reports a Leonard Harrison visitor.
Swimming options: Several locations offer water recreation for kids. "The rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals," notes a visitor to Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Site selection recommendations: Some campgrounds offer better RV accommodations than others. "Sites are spacious and easy to back in to. I believe there are two pull throughs. Water spigots are continently located around the campground," notes an RVer at Leonard Harrison State Park.
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric but not full hookups. "30/50A pedestals, but water is available only at scattered nearby potable hydrants to fill tanks. One is available right at the campground entrance adjacent to the dump station, but others are available amongst the campsites," explains a Lyman Run visitor.
Level site availability: Finding flat parking can be challenging in this mountainous terrain. "The sites are flat, some in full shade and others out in the open. Electric sites are available with water access to fill tanks but no water hookups," reports a camper at Ole Bull State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Cedar Run Campground?
Cedar Run area campgrounds offer various amenities to enhance your camping experience. Pettecote Junction Campground near Cedar Run provides water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with reservable sites accessible by multiple means including driving or hiking in. For those looking for more developed options, Ole Bull State Park Campground offers flat campsites in both shaded and open areas with electric hookups, water fill stations (though no direct hookups), and recently renovated bath houses with tiled floors and shelving for toiletries.
How do I navigate the Cedar Run Campground using a campground map?
When navigating Cedar Run area campgrounds, official campground maps are essential for orientation. At Pettecote Junction Campground, maps are typically available at check-in points and help identify site locations, facilities, and trail access points. For a more comprehensive experience, Russell P Letterman Campground demonstrates effective campground navigation with clearly marked asphalt parking pads and designated areas for utilities. Maps here show the modern camping section with easy access routes and help locate extra parking areas for additional vehicles. The check-in process is streamlined - simply drive to your site and set up according to the map layout.
What camping is available near Cedar Run, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cedar Run, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 187 campgrounds and RV parks near Cedar Run, PA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Run, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cedar Run, PA is Leonard Harrison State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cedar Run, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Cedar Run, PA.
What parks are near Cedar Run, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Cedar Run, PA that allow camping, notably Tioga-Hammond Lakes and Cowanesque Lake.
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