Lyman Run Daggett Campgrounds

Lyman Run Daggett Campgrounds offers a premier outdoor experience for residents and visitors of the Pennsylvania region, serving as a tranquil gateway to the rugged beauty of Potter County. Nestled within the 595-acre Lyman Run State Park, this campground is a favorite for those who value peace, quiet, and a deep connection with nature. Surrounded by a northern hardwood forest primarily composed of maples and cherries, the Daggett Run loop provides a scenic backdrop that changes beautifully with the seasons. Whether you are a local Pennsylvanian looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the "Pennsylvania Wilds," this facility delivers a high-quality, authentic camping experience.

The campground is part of a larger recreation area famous for the 45-acre Lyman Run Lake, a cold-water lake known for its exceptional water clarity and trout fishing. Daggett Campgrounds is particularly noted for its secluded atmosphere compared to more commercialized RV parks. It operates as one of two main camping loops in the park, offering a rustic yet modern environment where the sounds of the forest take center stage. With its well-maintained grounds and proximity to some of the darkest skies in the Eastern United States, it has earned a reputation among the local community as a reliable and high-value destination for outdoor recreation.

Location and accessibility are key features for those planning a visit to this part of the state. The campground is located on Doggett Road in Ulysses, PA, strategically positioned between the towns of Galeton and Coudersport. It is approximately 15 miles east of Coudersport and seven miles west of Galeton. The park is easily accessible via Lyman Run Road, though local travelers often recommend checking GPS settings to ensure a route that utilizes paved highways, as the surrounding Potter County terrain can be quite mountainous and rural. For guests with mobility needs, the campground provides a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and modern restroom facilities designed to accommodate all visitors.

• Address: Doggett Rd, Ulysses, PA 16948, USA (within Lyman Run State Park).
• Phone: (814) 435-5010.
• Proximity: Near the Susquehannock Trail System and a short drive to Cherry Springs State Park.
• Seasonal Operation: Typically open from the second Friday in April through mid-October.
• Accessibility: Features wheelchair-accessible parking and ADA-compliant restroom facilities.

The services offered at Lyman Run Daggett Campgrounds are designed to support a variety of camping styles, from traditional tent pitching to modern RV stays. The facility strikes a balance between providing essential modern conveniences and maintaining the integrity of a wilderness setting. One of the most frequently praised services by regular visitors is the availability of free public showers, which are kept in excellent condition by the park staff. The presence of on-site services ensures that guests can enjoy a comfortable stay without needing to leave the park for basic sanitary needs.

• RV Accommodations: Includes sites with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp service available).
• Sanitation: Clean, modern shower houses with hot water and flush toilets.
• Picnic Facilities: Every site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and gatherings.
• Waste Management: Access to a sanitary dump station located within the park (Lower Campground area).
• Water Access: Potable water spigots are conveniently located throughout the camping loop.
• On-site Parking: Dedicated space at each campsite for vehicles and trailers.
• Pet Services: Dogs are allowed on designated sites (Sites 1 through 6 in the Daggett loop).

The features and highlights of the Daggett loop revolve around the diverse recreational opportunities provided by the state park. The 45-acre lake is a central hub for activity, offering a sandy beach for swimming and a boat launch for non-powered or electric-powered watercraft. For those who enjoy terrestrial adventures, the campground provides direct access to a vast network of trails. Hiking is a primary draw here, as the park’s trails connect to the 85-mile Susquehannock Trail System, making it a dream destination for backpackers and nature photographers.

• Waterfront Recreation: A clean sand beach for swimming and a lake stocked with trout for year-round fishing.
• Hiking and Trails: Six miles of internal park trails including the Rock Run Trail and Spur Line Trail.
• Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to spot bald eagles, ospreys, and various migratory birds in their natural habitat.
• Stargazing: Located within a "Gold Level" dark sky area, offering spectacular views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
• Children’s Activities: Kid-friendly hikes and a playground area near the beach and picnic groves.
• Boating: Electric motors only, ensuring a quiet and peaceful lake experience; rentals are often available seasonally.
• ATV Access: A small trailhead provides access to the nearby Susquehannock ATV Trail.

When considering where to camp in the Pennsylvania Wilds, Lyman Run Daggett Campgrounds is worth choosing for its exceptional maintenance and secluded feel. While other nearby parks can become crowded during peak weekends, the well-spaced sites at Daggett provide a level of privacy that local campers truly appreciate. The "free showers" and updated bathroom facilities are a significant value-add that sets this state-run facility apart from more primitive options. It is an ideal choice for families who want a safe, clean environment for their children to play, as well as for avid anglers who want to be steps away from a Class A wild trout stream.

Additionally, choosing Daggett Campgrounds serves as an excellent alternative for those who find the nearby Cherry Springs State Park full. Since it is only a 15-minute drive from the famous stargazing observatory, you can enjoy the "dark skies" at night and return to a more comfortable, shaded campsite for the day. Whether you are here for the spring trout season, a summer swim, or the vibrant fall foliage, Lyman Run provides a high-quality experience that represents the best of Pennsylvania's state park system. Would you like me to look into the specific availability for the pet-friendly sites during your planned travel dates?