Accessible Nature Outings
Morrison Run
In Warren County west of Clarendon, Pa., the cold waters of Morrison Run meander through the Allegheny National Forest. This healthy stream provides habitat for native brook trout and supports wildlife such as black bear, white-tailed deer and porcupine – as well as numerous species of birds, amphibians and reptiles.
“The area supports a diversity of wildlife and plants, making every visit new and interesting, full of the wonders of nature,” said Kylie Maland, WPC’s watershed planning director. “The peaceful atmosphere and numerous outdoor recreation options make this a destination for the whole family.”
WPC scientists study aquatic life at Morrison Run.
A small, streamside campsite area is located at the lower end of Morrison Run, and primitive camping is open to the public within the Allegheny National Forest portions of the watershed. Recreational opportunities here include hunting, hiking and fishing, and winter sports such as snowshoeing.
The forest and waters of the Morrison Run watershed are still recovering from past resource extraction and flow modification, but several restoration projects along the stream should improve water quality and improve the coldwater fishery.
Morrison Run, above the upper dam.
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy staff members recently assisted the Cornplanter chapter of Trout Unlimited, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the U.S. Forest Service with a fish habitat improvement project near the headwaters of Morrison Run. “My son and several other children also helped with the effort by assisting with installation of fish habitat improvement structures and by cleaning up litter from the surrounding area,” said Maland. “We discovered evidence of black bear activity, and explored the stream to find a small frog swimming in the stream and crayfish hiding under rocks. The swarming gnats were a bit distracting, but it was an altogether enjoyable and fulfilling adventure.”
Directions: From Warren, follow U.S. Route 6
east approximately three miles to Morrison
Run Road, which is adjacent to Sears near
Clarendon, Pa. Morrison Run Road parallels
the stream for the most part. The primitive
camping area is situated on the left side of
the road, just beyond the railroad trestle
overpass. There are some private camps
along the road, but one may park alongside
the road and explore the areas that are a part
of the Allegheny National Forest.
GPS coordinates: -79.11060 41.81868
Find more "Accessible Nature Outings" at the Blackleggs Creek Memorial Park.