Camping at BUCKTAIL STATE PARK
General Information about Bucktail State Park
Bucktail State Park is a linear, scenic route through the Pennsylvania Wilds, designed with the intent to lead the traveler through an area rich with wildlife and natural beauty. This park is unique because it is not a separate destination, but rather a corridor that showcases the natural and historic significance of the area it traverses.
Park Name: Bucktail State Park Natural Area
Location: The park runs through Cameron and Clinton counties in Pennsylvania, following PA Route 120, which stretches from near Lock Haven to Emporium.
Size: The park itself comprises a 75-mile scenic drive and doesn't have a significant amount of land outside of the road's right-of-way.
Activities and Recreation
Scenic Drives: The primary focus of Bucktail State Park is the scenic drive through the Pennsylvania Wilds, offering views of the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley.
Wildlife Viewing: The region is known for its diverse wildlife, especially white-tailed deer, which are so abundant that the route is named after the Civil War era's "Bucktail Regiment," whose members hailed from the surrounding area.
Fishing: The Susquehanna River, as well as other creeks and streams along the route, offer opportunities for fishing, with species like trout being quite popular.
Hiking and Biking: While the state park itself does not contain dedicated trails, the surrounding areas and neighboring parks offer multiple trails.
Camping: There are no formal campgrounds within Bucktail State Park due to its nature as a scenic route, but nearby state forests and parks may provide camping facilities.
Facilities and Amenities
Picnic Areas: Rest stops along the route might offer basic amenities for picnicking, but as a linear park, facilities are limited.
Restrooms: Travelers should plan to use facilities in local towns and rest areas or look for amenities in neighboring state parks.
Planning and Regulations
Accessibility: The drive is accessible to all vehicles following the rules and regulations of PA Route 120.
Lodging: For those looking to stay overnight, the towns dotting the route offer various lodging options, including hotels and inns.
Pets: If considering bringing pets, it's important to check local regulations, though typically, state parks in Pennsylvania allow pets in day-use areas as long as they are on a leash.
Safety: Always ensure to keep to the speed limit and observe all traffic laws as PA Route 120 is a public road.
Conservation: Visitors are expected to respect the environment, adhering to principles of Leave No Trace to maintain the area's natural beauty.
Tips for Visiting
Best Time to Visit: The park can be enjoyed year-round, but the fall foliage season is particularly spectacular.
Plan Ahead: Research any specific points of interest you wish to visit along the route before your trip and make sure your vehicle is in good working condition for a predominantly rural drive.
Check Weather and Road Conditions: Weather can affect driving conditions, especially in winter, so plan accordingly and check updates regularly.
Local Information: Stop at local visitor centers or check online resources provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the most current information regarding Bucktail State Park and the surrounding area.
