If you are looking for a place within the Pennsylvania State Park system where you can really get away from it all then Prouty Place State Park is a terrific option.
Situated approximately a 3.5 hour drive from Pittsburgh, this small park sits on just 5-acres in the town of Austin in the Summit Township.
Flanked by the Susquehannock State Forest, which can be easily accessed from within the park it is the perfect place to come for a city detox.
While there is nothing in the way of camping and few amenities, its tranquility and remoteness make it the perfect spot for hiking, fishing, hunting and generally enjoying a mental refresh.
Activities
Visitors to Prouty Place State Park are able to immerse themselves in the serenity of its remote setting in a handful of ways.
Below is a quick overview of some of the main recreational activities you can engage in whilst you are there.
Fishing at Prouty Place State Park
It is worth bringing your rods and tackle with you to the park as there is good cold water fishing to be had at the Prouty Run. Additionally, there are also several streams in the adjacent Susquehannock State Forest where you can cast a line.
You will need a valid state fishing license in order to do so and abide by the regulations and laws of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. However, once you have procured one you will be able to catch the likes of trout, smallmouth bass and walleye.
Hiking at Prouty Place State Park
As well as your fishing gear, you’ll want to bring your hiking boots with you to the park as it has some lovely woodland scenery to stroll around.
Additionally, Prouty Place also provides trailhead parking for some of the various trails that meander through the adjacent Susquehannock State Forest.
These trails showcase the stunning landscape of the forest, which are one of eight spectacular forests within the Pennsylvania Wilds. They also accommodate some of the world’s most product black cherry tree stands.
Due to the remote nature of both parks it is worth taking a GPS along with you as well as a cell phone that has excellent coverage. You should also wear a good pair of hiking boots and a hat in the summer, as well as taking plenty of water and snacks with you.
It is also a good idea to lather on lots of sunscreen in the summer and mosquito spray all year round.
Hunting at Prouty Place State Park
For those into hunting you will be able to partake in this activity at the surrounding Susquehannock State Forest.
There you will be able to snare the likes of black bear, white-tailed deer and squirrel within specific zones during the designated season.
Firearms are permitted in the act of hunting, however, you will need a valid state license before you can do it.
Picnicking at Prouty Place State Park
For those who want to enjoy a picnic there are several tables located within Susquehannock State Forest where you can enjoy an al fresco meal.
Most are in the high use areas or near the trailheads and are available on a first come first serve basis.
Nature & Wildlife
Prouty Place State Park and the neighboring Susquehannock State Forest provide plenty of opportunity to spot various species of wildlife.
Throughout both of their landscapes, you should be able to see the likes of porcupines, bears, grouse, turkeys and deer. In recent times, bobcats have even been spotted too.
In terms of birds, various breeds can be seen in the trees and the skies, including hawks, osprey, bald eagles and black vultures.
You may want to bring you binoculars and a birding guide with you to help you see and identify them.
Pets
Pets are allowed to join you at Prouty Place State Park, although you will need to bear in mind the specific conditions that are placed on their presence there.
Dogs are to be well behaved at all times and kept on a leash that is not more than six feet long. They must also not destroy the flora or trouble the fauna in any way and should not be left unattended for longer than half an hour.
For a full rundown of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the staff who operate the main office.
Camping
While camping is not available at Prouty Place State Park you will find options available at the adjacent Susquehannock State Forest.
There you will find remote, singular, roadside campsites that are situated on gravel and dirt roads. Some might have short drives or require pull offs, but allow for camping overnight near or in a vehicle.
Similarly there are equestrian campsites at Susquehannock State Forest which offer parking for your trailer, a hitching post, fire ring and picnic tables.
Be aware, that there are no connections for electricity, trash disposal facilities or dump stations at the state forest land. However, primitive backpack camping is allowed in most of the forest without the need for a permit if you are only staying for one night at any given location.
For those who would prefer to stay at an established campground that offers more in the way of amenities, there are several to choose from within easy driving distance of Prouty Place.
They include the likes of Allegheny River Campground in Roulette, Ole Bull State Park in Cross Fork, Patterson State Park in Coudersport and Lyman Run State Park in Galeton. Some of which offer a range of accommodation options which include campsites for RVs, trailers and tents that come with hook ups for water, electricity and even sewage.
Park Location
Prouty Place State Park
4843 Park Rd
Austin, PA 16720
Phone: 814.4355010
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Prouty Place State Park:
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