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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
