Tucked into the rugged hills of Lycoming County, Upper Pine Bottom State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s smallest state parks at just 5 acres — but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm. Established in 1924, this pocket-sized park sits along Upper Pine Bottom Run, a clear mountain stream that draws visitors looking for a quiet escape from the busier parks in the region.

The park’s compact footprint makes it an ideal stop for a picnic lunch or a peaceful afternoon of stream-side relaxation. Upper Pine Bottom Run offers catch-and-release fishing for native brook trout, and the surrounding Tiadaghton State Forest provides miles of hiking and trail exploration for those who want to extend their visit beyond the park’s borders. Birdwatchers will find the mixed hardwood forest canopy alive with warblers and woodpeckers, especially during spring migration.

While camping availability should be confirmed directly with the park office before planning an overnight trip, the nearby state forest lands offer additional backcountry camping options for adventurous travelers.

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when the stream runs cool and the forest canopy provides welcome shade. Autumn brings spectacular foliage to this corner of north-central Pennsylvania, making October visits particularly rewarding.

Come expecting solitude rather than crowds. Upper Pine Bottom is the kind of place where you can hear the water over the rocks and not much else — a genuine hidden gem in Pennsylvania’s park system.

Explore Nearby

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• Buttonwood Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
• Cherry Springs State Park — Dark Sky Site in Pennsylvania
• Gateway to Amish Country — Scenic Byway in Ohio
• Allegheny National Forest — National Forest in Pennsylvania