Civilian Conservation Corps-built picnic shelter at Patterson State Park

Civilian Conservation Corps-built picnic shelter at Patterson State Park. Photo: User:Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At just 10-acres in size, Patterson State Park is one of the smallest state parks in Pennsylvania.

Situated in the town of Coudersport, which lies in the north western part of the state, the park resides near Sweden Valley on Pennsylvania Route 44.

Its main attraction is that it is surrounded by the Susquehannock State Forest, which provides easy access to the hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, snowmobiling and hunting opportunities there. It is also renowned as a lovely spot for picnicking, photography and wildlife watching.

Presented within a stoic and tranquil setting, the park even has a rustic campground for those who really want to reconnect with Mother Earth.

Activities

The park provides visitors with several different ways to enjoy its remote and idyllic landscape.

Showcased below is a handful of the outdoor recreational activities you can enjoy during your time at Patterson State Park.

Hiking at Patterson State Park

Visitors who enjoy hiking will be able to traverse a small part of the Susquehannock Trail which cuts through the park and leads into the surrounding Susquehannock State Forest.

Overall, the Susquehannock Trail System incorporates an 85-mile loop that takes you deep into Pennsylvania Wilds. So, you could venture further into it if you wanted too.

If you do attempt this trail you will get a close up look at some of the park’s most picturesque terrain. Just be sure to wear proper hiking boots when doing it, as well as a hat in the summer months.

It is also worth putting on plenty of sunscreen and mosquito spray, as well as taking lots of water and snacks with you.

Mountain Biking at Patterson State Park

If you are into mountain biking it is worth bringing your bike with you on your visit.

Running for 15 miles, there is a trail that begins from Denton Hill State Park and cuts through the park en route to Cherry Springs State Park.

It provides a fabulous way to experience the pristine natural beauty of all three destinations.

Picnicking at Patterson State Park

Picnicking is a popular activity at the park with many people choosing to enjoy an outdoor meal against its picturesque woodland backdrop.

Throughout the park you will find several picnic tables available to use. Additionally, two picnic pavilions are also provided for visitors on a first come, non-reservation-required basis.

Visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch to enjoy an al fresco meal. However, they are expected to take all their trash with them and treat the picnic areas respectfully.

Additionally, guests should also be aware that the consumption of alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park.

Hunting at Patterson State Park

For those who enjoy hunting, Patterson State Park enables you to easily access Susquehannock State Forest.

There you will be able to hunt bear, turkey, deer and grouse, as well as antlerless deer, at specific times of the year, through the DMAP program.

To hunt at the state forest you will need to hold a valid license. You should also make sure you abide by the rules and regulations of the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Photography at Patterson State Park

If you are into photography you’ll find plenty to inspire you at Patterson State Park.

Throughout the park’s hardwood forest landscape there are lots of trees to snap. During the fall, it is a particularly good time to do this as the vibrant shades of reds, oranges, and golds perfectly capture the beauty of autumn in Pennsylvania.

Additionally, the park and the neighboring Susquehannock State Forest has a diverse selection of wildlife you might be able to take photos of, including beer and deer. While at night the park’s remote location makes it an excellent spot for moon and night sky photography.

Winter Activities at Patterson State Park

During the winter months the park receives plenty of snowfall.

At this time, many people use Patterson State Park as a trail head for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling within the surrounding Susquehannock State Forest.

Pets

You are welcome to bring your dog with you to the park but you must ensure they are well behaved at all times.

They also should be kept on a hand held leash that is no more than six feet long and must not be left unattended for more than half an hour.

While at the park, owners are expected to clean up any mess their dog makes and dispose of it properly and appropriately. Dogs should also not bother the flora, fauna or any other visitor.

Camping

The park has a very rustic campground that is open between April and December.

It does not take reservations and operates on an honor system of envelopes which involves you paying at the registration kiosk prior to setting up your camp.

If you would like to stay here you will need to bring everything you require to make your stay comfortable.

Should this prove too primitive for you, there are several other campgrounds in the nearby area that have more elevated camping options. They include Sinnemahoning State Park in Austin, Sizerville State Park in Emporium and Lyman Run State Park in Galeton.

Between them, they have a range of sites that include hookups to electricity, as well as cabins that provide a more of a home-style feel to them.

Depending on which campground you decide to stay at, some of the amenities may include hot showers, flush toilets, a dump station and a playground for children.

Park Location

Patterson State Park
2866 Cherry Springs Rd,
Coudersport, PA 16915
Phone: 814.435.5010

Park Website
Reservations

Map