Cherry Springs State Park

Overview

Brochure InfoCherry Springs State Park is nearly as remote and wild today as it was two centuries ago. Its dark skies make it a haven for astronomers. Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places on the eastern seaboard for stargazing and the science of astronomy, which is the study and observation of planets, nebulae, galaxies, stars and other heavenly bodies. A dark night sky is a natural resource, just like plants, waterways and wildlife. Recognizing that this unique resource needed to be managed and protected, in 2000, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources declared Cherry Springs State Park the first Dark Sky Park. Named for the large stands of black cherry trees in the park, the 82-acre state park is surrounded by the 262,000-acre Susquehannock State Forest. The Susquehannock Trail passes nearby and offers 85 miles of backpacking and hiking.Brochure Info - OrientationNamed for historic stands of black cherry trees, the park is better known today for star-gazing. The park can attribute its dark night skies and excellent astronomical viewing mostly to its place amidst thousands of acres of the Susquehannock State Forest and being perched high atop the Allegheny Plateau at 2300 feet above sea level. Clearings from past settlement and an emergency runway built in the 1930s provide expansive areas with low horizons to view the night sky. Wildlife is abundant in and around the park with sighting of bear and deer quite common. Hooting of owls or even the occasional howl of a coyote remind visitors of the remote nature of this park.Key Info Pets are not allowed on the Astronomy Observation Field while the field is in use. Pets are not permitted in the campground. Pets are not permitted at public night sky programs. The Astronomy Field is non reservable but is open and available all year with a few exceptions. The large pavilion at Cherry Springs may be reserved by contacting the Lyman Run park office. Starting July 1, 2015 all Public Stargazing programs listed on the calendar of events will require online reservations. To book your spot for a program, please log on to DCNR Calendar of Events Permit Conditions: 1. No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite. Other facilities are limited to the maximum occupancy for the facility (i.e. beds in cabins) for non-family guests. Note: Family Unit-Persons living under one household. 2. Occupant shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older. 3. Noise or conduct which could interfere with the sleep of other persons is prohibited between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. 4. Before vacating the facility/site, occupants shall clean and properly dispose of waste. 5. Visitors are permitted only between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. 6. This permit may not be assigned or transferred. 7. Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited. 8. Failure to abide by Pennsylvania State Park Rules and Regulations. 9. For cabins,/yurts/camping cottages removal of tables, beds or other furnishings from the facility are prohibited. 10. For cabins/yurts/camping cottages tents, camping trailers and recreation vehicles are not permitted in the area. 11. Pets are only permitted in designated areas. Overnight guest with pets must reserve designated facilities. Violations: Violations of park rules and regulations or violations of a condition of this permit could result in any or all of the following consequences: 1. The permit may be revoked. This would mean that the occupants would be required to vacate the facility immediately. 2. The occupants may be required to leave the park. 3. The occupants may be cited for violations of park rules and regulations, a summary offense. 4. The occupants are responsible for any loss or damages to furnishings, fixtures, equipment, or facilities that occur during or due to their occupancyImportant Information for Daily EntranceDirectionCherry Springs State Park in on PA 44 in Potter County. Use the following address for GPS devices: 4639 Cherry Springs Road Coudersport, PA 16901Booking Window Product InfoFee Cancellation DescPlease read our Fees and Cancellation Policies