Camping at UPPER PINE BOTTOM STATE PARK

Basic Information

Upper Pine Bottom State Park is a small park in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. It is located in Pine Creek Valley in Lycoming County, an area known for its natural scenic beauty. Being a rather small park at just 5 acres, it serves primarily as a day-use area that caters to hikers and picnickers looking for a quiet escape in nature.

Activities

Picnicking

The park has a picnic area which provides a peaceful setting near a stream where visitors can enjoy meals amidst the sounds of nature.

Hiking

Upper Pine Bottom State Park is surrounded by the Tiadaghton State Forest, which offers extensive hiking trails for enthusiasts. Hikers can choose from various trails varying in difficulty and length.

Fishing

The park is a popular spot for fishing. Pine Creek, which flows near the park, is known for its excellent trout fishing opportunities during the spring and summer months.

Hunting

While hunting is not allowed within the park boundaries, the surrounding Tiadaghton State Forest has large tracts of land open to public hunting. Hunters can pursue game such as deer, turkey, grouse, and squirrel.

Winter Activities

In the winter, depending on the conditions, visitors might engage in cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on nearby trails in the state forest.

Facilities

The park is quite minimalistic when it comes to facilities due to its size. There is a picnic area and some basic restrooms, but visitors should come prepared, as there are no food services, camping facilities, or rental services.

Camping

Upper Pine Bottom State Park does not offer camping facilities. However, nearby state forest lands might offer primitive camping with permits, and there are other state parks in the region like Little Pine State Park and R.B. Winter State Park that offer camping facilities.

Flora and Fauna

The area is home to typical Pennsylvania wildlife, so visitors may spot various bird species, deer, squirrels, and other forest animals. The forest is predominately hardwood, with gorgeous displays of wildflowers in the spring and a breathtaking foliage change in the fall.

Access and Regulations

• The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
• Alcohol is prohibited.
• All state park regulations must be followed, including rules pertaining to pets, waste disposal, and fishing or hunting permits.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors who want to extend their outdoor adventure can explore these nearby areas:

• Pine Creek Gorge: Often referred to as the "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon," offering stunning vistas and further opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and photography.
• Little Pine State Park: Features a 60-acre lake, camping grounds, and additional hiking trails.
• R.B. Winter State Park: Offers a sand beach on Halfway Lake, fishing, boating, and camping facilities.

For the most current information on Upper Pine Bottom State Park, including any seasonal restrictions or updates on facilities, it's best to check with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) or the park's official website before planning your visit.