Pymatuning State Park’s Tuttle Point Campground in western Crawford County, Pennsylvania, is extending its camping season until November 30. This decision allows outdoor enthusiasts more time to enjoy the park’s natural beauty and newly renovated facilities. The extension comes in response to the trend of later onset of cold weather and continued visitor interest in fall camping experiences according to an article by The Meadville Tribune.
Park Superintendent Dan Bickel explained the reasoning behind the extension: “With colder weather coming later the last few years and people (still) coming out, we decided to try it at Tuttle Point. The way the sites are constructed, there’s less maintenance than the other two campgrounds since our summer help is now gone.” The extension applies specifically to Tuttle Point, while the park’s other two larger campgrounds, Jamestown and Linesville, will close for the season on October 26.
Tuttle Point Campground reopened in April following a significant $8 million renovation project. The campground had been closed since the end of the 2009 camping season due to the high operational costs of its outdated water treatment facility. The extensive upgrades include new water and sewer lines, a new water treatment building, and a new sewage pumping station. These improvements ensure a more efficient and environmentally friendly operation.
The renovation also included the refurbishment of the campground’s 75,000-gallon water tank, ensuring a reliable water supply for campers. Modern amenities were added to Tuttle Point, including a new main restroom and shower building for campers, along with a smaller new restroom for the beach area. These facilities provide the conveniences that today’s campers expect.
To enhance accessibility and appeal to a broader audience, a new handicapped-accessible fishing pier and boat launch have been installed. The renovated Tuttle Point Campground now features 112 campsites, reduced from the original 201, arranged over two loops instead of the original three. The campground includes handicapped-accessible amenities, including water, sewage, and electric hookups.
State Senator Michele Brooks emphasized the potential economic benefits of the campground’s reopening: “This reopening should help local businesses and bring more people back to Pymatuning.” The revitalized campground is expected to draw more visitors, potentially boosting local commerce and increasing tourism in the area.
For those interested in experiencing the newly renovated Tuttle Point Campground during its extended season, reservations can be made online at dcnr.pa.gov or by calling the toll-free number (888) PA-PARKS (727-2757) from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.