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Austin Dam Memorial Park

98%
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· Potter, Pennsylvania
76 acres hosted by Austin Dam P.
4 RV/tent sites · 4 tent sites
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Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Best in Pennsylvania: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
Just outside the quaint town of Austin sits a vivid reminder of one of Pennsylvania's worst disasters – the Austin Flood. In 1909, the dam was constructed on Freeman Run to power the Bayless Papermill downstream. Many wondered if the dam was safe. On September 30, 1911, Austin found out. Poor construction, coupled with torrential rain, resulted in the dam's collapse. Nearly 400 million gallons of water were released, destroying everything for 8 miles. At least 78 people perished in the tragedy. It was the second worst flood disaster in Pennsylvania's history and sixth worst dam failure in U.S. history. The tragedy sparked new legislation to improve dam safety, and the Austin Dam was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The ruins of the dam still stand, surrounded by a 76-acre park, as a tribute to the lives lost in the Austin Flood. Don't miss one of Potter County's best kept secrets!
Activities
Biking
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Natural features
Cave
Forest
River, stream, or creek
Swimming hole
98%
755 ratings · 307 reviews
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Sue L.recommends
October 9, 2024
Mess Hall (Site 6)
Site 6
Site was roomy, private (Site 8 looks to be the most private of all) and port-o-potty was very clean! Some road noise, but otherwise quiet, tho we were the only ones there (mid-week Sept with rain), so may be different when busy.
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Sheila H.recommends
October 6, 2024
Bark Peelers (Site 2)
The best camping in PA
Once again, we had an incredible experience camping at Austin Dam Memorial Park! The site (site 2) itself is stunning—nestled in a peaceful, scenic area that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. The Water stream next to our tent set up lulled us to sleep. The Fire pit, with wood delivery (ordered in advanced), kept us warm next to our picnic table.. One of the highlights for us is always the night sky. It’s a stargazer's dream! What makes this place even more special is that it’s run by local people who truly care about sharing this hidden gem with visitors. There’s something really unique and personal about it not being state-owned, but rather a community effort to preserve and celebrate the beauty of the area. You can feel the pride and passion in the way the park is maintained. We loved every moment and can’t wait to come back! Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a serene, nature-filled getaway. But ssshhhhhh!
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Ruth M.recommends
September 22, 2024
Log Train (Site 8)
The site was beautiful in the woods. Lots to explore right from the site. The ruins of the dam were amazing and really easy to walk around. Also great place for stargazing.
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Kasey E.recommends
September 13, 2024
Log Train (Site 8)
Tremendous Host
We absolutely loved everything about camping at the Austin Dam and hope to return every year! Alvy was a tremendous host, especially being a volunteer! He had many recommendations, wonderful knowledge of the area and its history, and answered all of our questions. We had everything we needed at the campsite, plenty of space and privacy, and the wood we purchased prior to arrival was more than enough for us! Alvy was very accommodating when we booked an extra night since we got in later than we were expecting the first night. Swimming at one of the spots Alvy recommended was our favorite part (aside from getting engaged while we were there!) even though the water was probably around 50°! We hope to see the memorial and the campsites stay up and running!
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Elissa S.recommends
September 6, 2024
Mess Hall (Site 6)
Will Be Back!
We had a great time at this camp! The site is huge with tons of space for families to spend out. The creek was fabulous to wade in. The main road above the valley was louder than we expected but it wasn't terrible. The portapotty near our site was spotless. Highly recommend!
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John J.recommends
August 19, 2024
Log Driver (Site 3)
Excellent park and site! Hosts were very kind and welcoming.
Location
Potter, Pennsylvania, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Susquehannock and Ho-de-no-sau-nee-ga (Haudenosaunee) First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Austin Dam P.

Joined in March 2019
Response rate: 50%Response time: Within 12 hours
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