Lyman Run State Park photo
ParkPennsylvania, US

Lyman Run State Park

Lyman Run State Park, a 595-acre gem nestled in the scenic Pennsylvania Wilds of Potter County, offers a truly serene escape for nature enthusiasts.

About

Lyman Run State Park, a 595-acre gem nestled in the scenic Pennsylvania Wilds of Potter County, offers a truly serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Dominated by lush hardwood forests of maples and cherries, the park's centerpiece is the picturesque 45-acre Lyman Run Lake, providing a stunning backdrop for all outdoor adventures. This tranquil setting, combined with its relatively isolated feel, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of north-central Pennsylvania.

The park boasts a variety of activities centered around its pristine lake and surrounding woodlands. Visitors can enjoy boating with electric motors, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming at the sandy beach, which remains refreshingly cool even in summer thanks to the cold-water Lyman Run stream that feeds it. Fishing is a popular pastime, with the lake stocked with rainbow and palomino trout, while the stream itself is a Class A wild trout stream. Hiking enthusiasts will find six miles of trails within the park, some of which connect to the extensive Susquehannock Trail System, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like white-tailed deer, American Black Bears, Coyotes, and various bird species such as Common Loons and Bald Eagles, especially during spring migrations.

Lyman Run State Park is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, outdoor recreation, and wildlife observation. Its clear waters, dense forests, and abundant wildlife create a memorable experience, whether you're casting a line for Yellow Perch, observing the delicate Red-spotted Admiral butterflies, or simply unwinding by the lake. The park’s proximity to Cherry Springs State Park also makes it a convenient base for stargazing, adding another layer to its appeal. It's a place where you can truly reconnect with nature and create lasting memories amidst the tranquil wilderness. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

Lyman Run State Park is named after Major Isaac Lyman, an American Revolutionary War veteran who was one of the first permanent settlers in Potter County and is recognized as the county's founder. The lake at the heart of the park was first dammed in 1951, with the current dam structure, featuring a unique spillway, having been reconstructed in 2009. The park itself covers 595 acres, providing a vast area for public recreation and conservation within the larger Susquehannock State Forest.

What to do here

Boating & Swimming: Enjoy Lyman Run Lake with electric motorboats, kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. A sandy beach is available for swimming.

Fishing: Fish for rainbow and palomino trout in Lyman Run Lake (stocked) or experience wild trout fishing in the upper Lyman Run stream. Fishing rods and tackle boxes can be borrowed from the park office.

Hiking: Explore the park's six miles of hiking trails, which offer scenic views and connect to the broader Susquehannock Trail System.

Wildlife Watching: Look for American Black Bears, Coyotes, White-tailed Deer, Eastern Newts, Spotted Salamanders, Allegheny Mountain Dusky Salamanders, various birds like Common Loons, Bald Eagles, and migrating waterfowl, as well as butterflies like the Red-spotted Admiral and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.

Picnicking: Utilize the central shaded picnic area or various picnic tables throughout the park.

Camping: Stay overnight at one of the two campgrounds, offering electric and non-electric sites, including pet-friendly options.

ATV Riding: Access the Susquehannock ATV Trail from a trailhead within the park (Lower Campground available to ATV enthusiasts from Memorial Day weekend to the last Sunday in September).

Seasonal info

Spring: Migratory waterfowl like Common Loons and Buffleheads arrive. Trout fishing season opens. Salamanders and newts are active.

Summer: Warmest temperatures, ideal for swimming and boating. Lake remains cool. Butterflies like Red-spotted Admirals are abundant.

Fall: Spectacular fall foliage, typically peaking in the first week of October. Excellent for hiking and photography.

Winter: Opportunities for ice fishing on Lyman Run Lake (ice thickness not monitored, recommended 4 inches).

Accessibility

Accessible recreation options are listed on the DCNR website. Accessible campsites are available, for example, Lower Campground Site 25 and Daggett Loop Site 007 both have accessible features. The park provides accommodations for visitors with disabilities; contact the park office for specific needs.

Don't miss

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The 45-acre Lyman Run Lake for boating, swimming, and fishing; the scenic hiking trails, including those that connect to the Susquehannock Trail System; the unique spillway of the dam; and the abundant opportunities for wildlife observation.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Download a map

Cell service can be unpredictable in and around the park, so download a park map before your visit.

Dress in layers

Temperatures can vary, especially with the lake staying cool, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Bring bug spray

Especially during warmer months and near the water, insect repellent will enhance your comfort.

Pack cash for concessions

The seasonal concession stand accepts cash only.

Reserve campsites in advance

Campsites fill up quickly, particularly during popular seasons, so secure your reservation ahead of time.

Observe wildlife from a distance

To protect the animals and ensure your safety, maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, including American Black Bears and Coyotes.

Frequently asked questions

Visitors to Lyman Run State Park can observe a diverse range of wildlife, including larger mammals like American Black Bears, Coyotes, White-tailed Deer, and Groundhogs. Birdwatchers might spot Common Loons, Bald Eagles, Buffleheads, Ring-necked Ducks, and Gray Catbirds. The park's wetlands and forests are home to amphibians such as Eastern Newts, Spotted Salamanders, and Allegheny Mountain Dusky Salamanders, while various butterflies like the Red-spotted Admiral and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail add vibrant color.
Yes, Lyman Run State Park offers two campgrounds with a total of 29 modern electric campsites suitable for RVs up to 35 feet, as well as tent sites. Some campsites are designated as pet-friendly. Pets are permitted in day-use areas and specific campsites but are not allowed in the sandy beach or swimming areas. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Lyman Run State Park's 45-acre lake is perfect for a variety of water activities. You can enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, boating with electric motors (gasoline motors are prohibited), kayaking, and canoeing. Fishing is a major draw, with the lake being stocked with rainbow and palomino trout, and the stream providing wild trout fishing opportunities. Equipment such as fishing rods and tackle boxes are available for loan.

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