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Explore the Outdoors: National and State Parks in Pennsylvania

January 11, 2024

Did you know that the Pennslyvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages 124 state parks? There's never been a better place to get outside and explore more than 300,000 acres of beautiful hiking trails, picnic spots, boating & fishing destinations, camping, and more outdoorsy fun!


National Parks in Pennslyvania

There is only one National Park in Pennsylvania, which is the Gettysburg National Military Park.


Gettysburg National Military Park is dedicated to preserving the site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War, which took place in July 1863. The park features a museum, a visitor center, and various historic monuments and structures, including the Gettysburg National Cemetery. The park is a popular destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the Civil War and its impact on American history.


State Parks in Pennslyvania

Make online reservations or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), 7:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Monday to Saturday, for state park information and reservations


Allegheny Islands State Park - a beautiful park located in the Allegheny River that offers fishing, boating, and camping.

Archbald Pothole State Park - known for its unique geological feature, a natural pothole, and offers hiking trails and picnic areas.

Bald Eagle State Park - a great place to enjoy water activities, like swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as camping and hiking.

Beltzville State Park - a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing, with a sandy beach and picnic areas to enjoy

Bendigo State Park - located in Elk County, this park offers a serene and peaceful escape with its small lake and forested trails.

Benjamin Rush State Park - a small park located in Philadelphia that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Big Elk Creek State Park - a 195-acre park located in historic Chester County. It offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking, as well as picnic areas and a playground

Big Pocono State Park - situated in Monroe County, this park is known for its stunning vistas of the Pocono Mountains and offers hiking and biking trails as well as picnic areas.

Big Spring State Park - located in Cumberland County and is known for its natural spring that feeds into a trout-filled stream.


Black Moshannon State Park - located in Centre County, this park is home to the Black Moshannon Bog Natural Area, which features unique plant and animal life, as well as opportunities for boating and fishing on the lake.

Blue Knob State Park - located in Bedford County, this park boasts the second-highest peak in Pennsylvania and offers year-round recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing.

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area - located in Dauphin County, has over 1,000 acres of land and features a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows.

Buchanan's Birthplace State Park - situated in Franklin County, this small park is dedicated to President James Buchanan and features a replica of his birthplace cabin.

Bucktail State Park Natural Area - spans over 16,000 acres and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and hunting.

Caledonia State Park - a beautiful spot for hiking and camping with its scenic trails, picnic areas, and an 18-hole golf course.

Canoe Creek State Park - an ideal destination for fishing and boating, with its 155-acre lake and ample recreational facilities.

Chapman State Park - located in Warren County, this park offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of activities including hiking, fishing, and camping.

Cherry Springs State Park - is renowned for its dark skies and is a popular spot for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts

Clear Creek State Park - situated in Jefferson County, this park is known for its clear stream and offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and camping.

Codorus State Park - located in York County, this park features a large lake perfect for boating and fishing as well as hiking trails and camping areas.


Colonel Denning State Park - offers stunning views of the Cumberland Valley and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

Colton Point State Park - offers breathtaking views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon and is a great place for hiking and camping

Cook Forest State Park - a vast forested area, home to ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and thrilling outdoor activities such as canoeing, biking, and horseback riding.

Cowans Gap State Park - located in Fulton County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking trails and camping areas.

Delaware Canal State Park - situated in Bucks and Northampton counties, this park covers over 60 miles of the Delaware Canal and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing.

Denton Hill State Park - located in Potter County, Denton Hill State Park is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing opportunities. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing in the scenic park.

Elk State Park - located in Elk County, this park is home to the largest wild elk herd in the northeastern United States and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, and hiking.


Erie Bluffs State Park - situated along the shores of Lake Erie in Erie County, Erie Bluffs State Park is a great spot for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can take in stunning views of the lake and surrounding bluffs from observation decks and trails.

Evansburg State Park - situated in Montgomery County, this park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking, as well as historic sites to explore.

Fort Washington State Park - located in Montgomery County, this park is home to the historic Fort Washington and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Fowlers Hollow State Park - tucked away in Perry County, Fowlers Hollow State Park is a tranquil destination for outdoor recreation. The park features hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a picnic area for visitors to enjoy.

Frances Slocum State Park - located in Luzerne County, Frances Slocum State Park is a beautiful setting for hiking, fishing, and boating. The park also offers camping facilities and a swimming beach for visitors to enjoy.


French Creek State Park - situated in Berks and Chester counties, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, as well as hiking and biking trails.

Gifford Pinchot State Park - located in York County, this park offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Gouldsboro State Park - nestled in the heart of the Poconos in Monroe and Wayne Counties, Gouldsboro State Park is a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. The park also features a swimming beach and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Greenwood Furnace State Park - situated in Huntingdon County, this park is home to the historic Greenwood Furnace and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.

Hickory Run State Park - located in Carbon County, this park is known for its stunning waterfalls and boulder fields and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.

Hillman State Park - situated in Washington County, this park covers over 3,000 acres and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.

Hills Creek State Park - a beautiful park with a large lake that provides great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Hyner Run State Park - known for its challenging hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls.

Hyner View State Park - offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from its scenic overlook

Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center - located in Northampton County, this park offers a variety of educational programs and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Jennings Environmental Education Center - a nature lover's paradise with trails that wind through various habitats and a visitor center that provides educational exhibits and programs.

Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area - a serene park with quiet hiking trails that wind through the lush forest.

Kettle Creek State Park - located in Clinton County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, as well as hiking and biking trails.

Keystone State Park - situated in Westmoreland County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking trails and camping areas.

Kings Gap Environmental Education and Training Center - situated in Cumberland County, this park offers a variety of educational programs and opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.


Kinzua Bridge State Park - located in McKean County, this park is home to the Kinzua Viaduct, which was once the tallest and longest railroad structure in the world.

Kooser State Park - situated in Somerset County, this park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, as well as camping areas.

Lackawanna State Park - located in Lackawanna County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking trails and camping areas.

Laurel Hill State Park - situated in Somerset County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, as well as hiking and biking trails.

Laurel Mountain State Park - located in Westmoreland County, this park is home to a ski resort and offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.

Laurel Ridge State Park - a popular destination for hikers and bikers, offering miles of trails with gorgeous views of the Laurel Highlands.

Laurel Summit State Park - a small but beautiful park located in the heart of the Laurel Highlands. It offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.

Lehigh Gorge State Park - situated in Carbon and Luzerne counties, this park covers over 4,500 acres and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, biking, and white-water rafting.


Leonard Harrison State Park - located in Tioga County, this park is home to the famous Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania."

Linn Run State Park - situated in Westmoreland County, this park is known for its beautiful waterfalls and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.

Little Buffalo State Park - located in Perry County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking trails and camping areas.

Little Pine State Park - a secluded gem nestled in the mountains of north-central Pennsylvania. It boasts a pristine lake, scenic hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for a weekend getaway.

Locust Lake State Park - situated in Schuylkill County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Lyman Run State Park - located in Potter County, this park is home to a beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Marsh Creek State Park - situated in Chester County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Maurice K. Goddard State Park - located in Mercer County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

McCalls Dam State Park - a hidden gem located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds. With its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife, it is the perfect place to explore and unwind.

McConnells Mill State Park - situated in Lawrence County, this park is home to the historic McConnells Mill and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Memorial Lake State Park - a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a beautiful lake, scenic hiking trails, and a variety of recreational activities.

Milton State Park - a peaceful oasis located in the heart of central Pennsylvania. It boasts a scenic lake, hiking trails, and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Mont Alto State Park - a small, quiet park located in the South Mountain region of Pennsylvania. It offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Moraine State Park - located in Butler County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Mount Pisgah State Park - situated in Bradford County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.


Nescopeck State Park - situated in Luzerne County, this park is home to the Nescopeck Creek and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Neshaminy State Park - located in Bucks County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and biking trails.

Nockamixon State Park - a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a large lake, hiking trails, and a variety of recreational activities.

Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center - a beautiful nature preserve located in southeastern Pennsylvania. It offers a variety of educational programs and recreational activities.

Norristown Farm Park - a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking.


Ohiopyle State Park - located in Fayette County, this park covers over 20,000 acres and offers visitors opportunities for white-water rafting, hiking, and camping, as well as historic sites to explore.

Oil Creek State Park - situated in Venango County, this park is home to the Oil Creek and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, as well as historic sites to explore.

Ole Bull State Park - a beautiful natural area in Potter County, Pennsylvania, known for its majestic forests, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.

Parker Dam State Park - located in Clearfield County, this park is home to a beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Patterson State Park - a small but charming park in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, featuring a picnic area, playground, and hiking trails.

Penn-Roosevelt State Park - a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Centre County, Pennsylvania, with camping, fishing, and boating opportunities on the scenic Penns Creek.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park - situated in Cumberland County, this park is home to the historic Pine Grove Iron Furnace and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.

Poe Paddy State Park - a Centre County gem, offering camping, fishing, and hiking in a lovely natural setting.

Poe Valley State Park - a picturesque park in Centre County, Pennsylvania, with a sand beach, playground, and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.


Point State Park - located in Allegheny County, this park is home to the iconic Point State Park Fountain and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Presque Isle State Park - situated in Erie County, this park covers over 3,000 acres and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and biking trails. Be sure to explore the Tom Ridge Environmental Center while you're there.

Prince Gallitzin State Park - located in Cambria County, this park is home to a large lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.


Promised Land State Park - situated in Pike County, this park is known for its beautiful lake and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Prompton State Park - offers a beautiful lake with excellent fishing opportunities, hiking trails, and a campground.

Prouty Place State Park - a small park with a few picnic tables and a hiking trail, perfect for a quick outdoor getaway.

Pymatuning State Park - located in Crawford County, this park covers over 16,000 acres and offers visitors opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping areas.

Raccoon Creek State Park - a large park with multiple hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a beach area.

Ralph Stover State Park - a great spot for rock climbing and hiking, with stunning views of Tohickon Creek.

Ravensburg State Park - a remote park with hiking trails and a small campground.

Raymond B Winter State Park - offers a tranquil lake for boating and fishing, as well as hiking trails and a campground.

Reeds Gap State Park - a small park with a hiking trail and picnic area.


Ricketts Glen State Park - known for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, and features a campground and a beach area.

Ridley Creek State Park - a beautiful park with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas.

Ryerson Station State Park - offers hiking trails and a small lake for fishing.

Salt Springs State Park - a unique park with natural salt springs, hiking trails, and a campground.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park - a small park with a few hiking trails and a picnic area.

Sand Bridge State Park - a secluded park with hiking trails and a small beach.

Shawnee State Park - a lake for boating and fishing, hiking trails, and a campground.

Shikellamy State Park - located on the Susquehanna River and offers a marina, hiking trails, and a campground.

Simon B. Elliott State Park - a small park with a hiking trail and picnic area.


Sinnemahoning State Park - features a lake for boating and fishing, hiking trails, and a campground.

Sizerville State Park - a beautiful park with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a campground.

Susquehanna State Park - offers visitors the chance to explore an ancient Native American petroglyph site, hike trails, and enjoy the scenic views of the Susquehanna River.

Susquehanna Riverlands State Park - located on a peninsula formed by the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal, where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and hunting.

Susquehannock State Park - home to the Native American burial grounds and offers visitors the chance to hike, fish, and hunt.


Swatara State Park - offers visitors year-round outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.

Tobyhanna State Park - a perfect spot for adventure seekers, with over 5,000 acres of forest to explore via hiking and biking trails.

Trough Creek State Park - boasts stunning waterfalls and hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Tuscarora State Park - a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.

Tyler State Park - has something for everyone, from its disc golf course and fishing spots to its hiking trails and picnic areas.

Upper Pine Bottom State Park - a perfect spot for those looking for a quiet place to camp, hike, and fish.

Varden Conservation Area - a great place for birdwatching and hiking along the scenic trails.

Vosburg Neck State Park - known for its stunning views of the Endless Mountains and has a variety of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

Warriors Path State Park - home to a wide variety of wildlife and offers visitors the chance to hike, bike, and fish.

Washington Crossing Historic Park - a great spot for history buffs, with its preserved historic buildings and reenactments of the famous crossing of the Delaware River.

Whipple Dam State Park - a great place for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.

White Clay Creek Preserve - offers visitors the chance to explore over 3,000 acres of forest and meadows via hiking and biking trails.

Worlds End State Park - a great spot for camping, hiking, and fishing.

Yellow Creek State Park - a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake.