Alder Run

woodland campground clearfield pa

For Pennsylvanians seeking a true escape into the wild, where the beauty of nature meets ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, Alder Run Campground in Lyman Run State Park stands as an inviting destination. Located in the picturesque Potter County, often referred to as Pennsylvania's "God's Country," this campground offers a serene and immersive experience within a vast mixed northern hardwood forest. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with the tranquility of Pennsylvania's natural landscapes.

Alder Run Campground provides a gateway to the diverse offerings of Lyman Run State Park. Central to the park's appeal is the beautiful 45-acre Lyman Lake, surrounded by hillsides adorned with maples and cherries. This stunning natural setting forms the backdrop for a wide array of activities, from tranquil boating and fishing to refreshing swims and invigorating hikes. Whether you're pitching a tent or bringing your RV, the campground is designed to facilitate a comfortable stay, allowing you to fully enjoy the park's amenities and the peaceful ambiance that defines this region.

While specific customer reviews for "Alder Run" itself are not widely available under this exact name, information for Lyman Run State Park, which hosts Alder Run, confirms its features and suitability for various outdoor pursuits. It's known for its clean facilities, access to significant trail systems, and a natural environment that truly allows you to get away from it all. For those in Pennsylvania looking for a genuine outdoor adventure that caters to diverse interests, Alder Run at Lyman Run State Park promises a memorable and rejuvenating experience.

Alder Run Campground is situated within Lyman Run State Park, near Sylvan Grove, PA, specifically referenced by the coordinate 3R4G+8R. This location places it deep in scenic Potter County, in the north-central part of Pennsylvania. Potter County is renowned for its expansive forests, dark skies perfect for stargazing, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it a prime destination for Pennsylvanians seeking a genuine wilderness experience.

The park is accessible via state routes, though driving to this region of Pennsylvania often involves scenic, winding roads through forested terrain. While it feels remote, which is part of its charm, it's a manageable drive for many within Pennsylvania, particularly from central and western parts of the state. Its relative remoteness ensures a peaceful and uncrowded experience, a stark contrast to more urbanized areas. For those with ATVs, the campground offers direct access to a small trailhead that connects to the extensive Susquehannock ATV Trail System, a significant draw for motorized recreation enthusiasts. Additionally, hikers will find connections to the larger Susquehannock Trail System, making it a hub for both long-distance and day-hike adventures. The address, while a coordinate, effectively guides visitors to a destination that promises immersive natural beauty and a true escape.

Alder Run Campground, as part of Lyman Run State Park, provides a range of essential services to ensure a pleasant and comfortable camping experience for visitors:

• Campsites: The park offers two campgrounds, and Alder Run is one of them. Sites are generally suitable for tents and RVs. While specific hookup details for Alder Run are not fully detailed, state park campgrounds typically offer a mix of electric and non-electric sites, with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings at each. It is common for water spigots to be conveniently located throughout the loops for potable water access.
• Bathhouses with Showers: Clean and functional bathhouses with showers are available within the campground. These are crucial for comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a sanitation dumping station is available within the campground for convenient waste disposal.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated for Alder Run, state parks often have firewood available for purchase to prevent the spread of invasive species from outside firewood. Campers are usually encouraged or required to use local firewood.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite typically comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Public Boat Launch: A public boat launch is available at Lyman Lake, providing easy access for various watercraft.
• Concession: Some state parks offer concession stands for snacks, drinks, or basic supplies, though specific details for Lyman Run's concession are best confirmed with the park directly.

Lyman Run State Park, where Alder Run Campground is located, is rich with features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for various outdoor activities:

• Lyman Lake: The centerpiece of the park, this 45-acre cold-water lake is surrounded by stunning northern hardwood forests. It's ideal for boating (electric motors only), fishing (stocked with trout, and also home to native trout in Lyman Run upstream and downstream), and swimming, with a designated swimming area.
• Extensive Trail Systems: The park offers a variety of hiking trails, connecting to the much larger Susquehannock Trail System, which provides hundreds of miles of hiking opportunities. For motorized enthusiasts, there's a small trailhead providing access to the vast Susquehannock ATV Trail. Additionally, the park and surrounding areas are popular for snowmobiling in winter.
• Scenic Forest Setting: The campground is set within a beautiful 595-acre mixed northern hardwood forest, dominated by maples and cherries, providing a picturesque and tranquil environment for camping.
• Dark Skies: Potter County is renowned for its exceptionally dark skies, making Lyman Run State Park, and thus Alder Run Campground, an excellent location for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. Cherry Springs State Park, one of the best dark sky preserves, is also nearby.
• Hunting Opportunities: The state park borders state forest lands where hunting is permitted in season, making it an attractive base for hunters.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest and lake ecosystem provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, from various bird species to deer and other forest animals.
• Boating and Fishing: Beyond the lake, Lyman Run itself offers excellent trout fishing, making it a prime spot for anglers. The lake is perfect for small boats, canoes, and kayaks.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With swimming, fishing, and trails, the park offers something for every member of the family, encouraging outdoor exploration and quality time together.

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Alder Run operates under the pricing and discount structures set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are uncommon, but there are standard discounts and seasonal pricing that can offer value:

• Senior Citizen Discounts: Pennsylvania State Parks often offer discounts for senior citizens, typically for those 65 and older, sometimes on specific days of the week (e.g., Sunday through Thursday). It's advisable to check the current DCNR guidelines for eligibility and discount percentages.
• Off-Peak Season Rates: Camping rates are often lower during the off-peak seasons (e.g., spring and fall before Memorial Day and after Labor Day), offering a more affordable and often quieter camping experience.
• Extended Stay Discounts: While not a formal "promotion," booking longer stays (e.g., weekly rates) can sometimes result in a slightly lower per-night cost compared to nightly rates.
• Activity-Specific Permits: While not discounts, activities like ATV riding on the Susquehannock Trail System will require separate permits, which are necessary to enjoy this feature of the park.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any potential seasonal offers, it is always recommended to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for Lyman Run State Park or use the state's online reservation system (e.g., through Reserve America).

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Alder Run Campground and Lyman Run State Park, please use the following contact information:

Address: Lyman Run State Park, 3R4G+8R, Sylvan Grove, PA 16858, USA

Phone: (Specific phone number for Alder Run is not consistently available. The general phone number for Lyman Run State Park, which manages Alder Run, is often listed as (814) 435-5000 or (888) PA-PARKS for reservations.)

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as state park campgrounds are popular. Calling the park office directly or using the official state park reservation system online will provide the most accurate information regarding site availability, seasonal changes, and specific rules.

For Pennsylvanians, Alder Run Campground at Lyman Run State Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a profound invitation to experience the heart of our state's wild beauty. Its location in Potter County means a refreshing escape from urban life, immersing you in a truly serene and natural environment that feels worlds away, yet is entirely accessible within our own state. This makes it an ideal local getaway for residents across Pennsylvania, from those in the more populated eastern regions to our central and western communities.

The park's diverse offerings cater to a wide array of interests, ensuring there's something for every local adventurer. Whether you're a family looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat to swim, boat, and fish, a seasoned hiker eager to explore miles of the Susquehannock Trail System, or an ATV enthusiast ready to hit the extensive motorized trails, Alder Run serves as an excellent base. The clean facilities, the opportunity for wildlife viewing, and the renowned dark skies for stargazing only add to its appeal. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, breathe in the fresh forest air, and create lasting memories amidst Pennsylvania's captivating wilderness. For those who cherish genuine outdoor experiences, Alder Run offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, right here in our beloved commonwealth.

Alder Run

3R4G+8R, Sylvan Grove, PA 16858, USA