Destinations
Pennsylvania outdoors
Waterfall canyons, mile-deep gorges, and ridge trails: Pennsylvania is a forest state built for hikers who like a payoff.
Pennsylvania does not have a marquee national park, and that is part of its charm. What it has instead is a deep bench of state parks and state forests that quietly outpunch their reputation. Think waterfall glens, a gorge people fairly call the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, and ridge-line trails that roll for dozens of miles through hardwood forest.
If you only had a long weekend, start with the headliners. Ricketts Glen, in the northeast, strings 22 named waterfalls along a single loop, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls, and the Falls Trail is the kind of hike that makes a first-timer fall for the state. Ohiopyle, in the southwest, packs whitewater on the Youghiogheny River, the easy walk to Cucumber Falls, and a hub on the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail into one busy park. Up north, Pine Creek Gorge drops about 1,450 feet, and the overlooks at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point state parks deliver the view without a hard climb. For a longer effort, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail runs roughly 70 miles along Laurel Mountain, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the eastern border adds waterfalls and river miles.
Timing matters here. Fall is the headline season: foliage peaks from late September into early October in the north (Pine Creek Gorge, the Allegheny National Forest) and a week or two later farther south, with crisp days in the 50s and 60s F that are ideal for walking. Summer is warm and humid, often 80s F, and great for the rivers and reservoirs. Winters are real, with snow and ice that open up cross-country skiing and even ice climbing at Ricketts Glen, so plan accordingly.
The through-line on what to pack is traction and layers. Those waterfall trails are gorgeous and genuinely slick, so grippy footwear earns its place, and rain is common enough that a shell belongs in the bag year-round. Bring layers you can shed on the climb and add at a breezy overlook, plenty of water, and microspikes if you are hiking the glens once the temperature drops.
State park reservations
Pennsylvania booking basics
Free entry does not mean easy camping. Cabins, electric sites, and holiday weekends still need early action.
Booking note
Pennsylvania state park campsites can be reserved online or by phone through the official reservation center.
Agency
Pennsylvania DCNR
State park directory
Pennsylvania state park system places
A source-backed inventory layer for planning breadth. Full Kit Authority guides are marked when a park has imagery, camping detail, rules, and packing notes.
126 directory entries
0 full guides live
- Official page
Allegheny Islands State Park
State Park
Accessible only by boat, the 50-acre Allegheny Islands State Park consists of two alluvial islands and seven shoals in the Allegheny River.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Archbald Pothole State Park
State Park
Archbald Pothole State Park is a 150-acre park in northeastern Pennsylvania.
- Hiking
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Bald Eagle State Park
State Park
The 5,900-acre Bald Eagle State Park is in the broad Bald Eagle Valley of northcentral Pennsylvania.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Beltzville State Park
State Park
The 3,002-acre Beltzville State Park is in the southern foothills of the Poconos.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Bendigo State Park
State Park
The 100-acre Bendigo State Park is in a small valley surrounded by picturesque hills.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Paddling
- Historic Site
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Benjamin Rush State Park
State Park
Benjamin Rush State Park is located in the North East section of Philadelphia and is the only state park within the city boundary.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Big Elk Creek State Park
State Park
The 1,800-acre Big Elk Creek State Park in southern Chester County lies less than 10 miles northwest of Newark, Delaware.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Horseback Riding
- Historic Site
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Big Pocono State Park
State Park
Big Pocono State Park is in Monroe County in northeastern Pennsylvania.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Big Spring State Park
State Park
Tucked in the side of Conococheague Mountain, Big Spring State Park is a quaint picnic and hiking spot maintained by Tuscarora State Forest.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Black Moshannon State Park
State Park
Black Moshannon State Park covers 3,394 acres of forests and wetlands and conserves unique, natural environments.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Blue Knob State Park
State Park
Blue Knob State Park offers year-round wilderness adventures on 6,128 acres of woodland.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
State park system area
The 1,025-acre Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area straddles Blue Mountain and is the habitat of large trees of numerous species, which are homes for deep forest birds, especially warblers.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Buchanan's Birthplace State Park
State Park
Buchanan's Birthplace State Park is an 18.5-acre park nestled in a gap of Tuscarora Mountain in Franklin County.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Bucktail State Park Natural Area
State Park
Bucktail State Park Natural Area provides a beautiful 75-mile scenic drive along PA 120 from Emporium, through Renovo, to Lock Haven.
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Caledonia State Park
State Park
The 1,125-acre Caledonia State Park is in Adams and Franklin counties, midway between Chambersburg and Gettysburg along Lincoln Highway, US 30.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Canoe Creek State Park
State Park
The beautiful, 961-acre Canoe Creek State Park features a 155-acre lake, wetlands, old fields, and mature forests, which provide critical habitat for migrating birds and other wildlife.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Chapman State Park
State Park
The 862-acre Chapman State Park includes the 68-acre Chapman Lake on the West Branch of Tionesta Creek.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Cherry Springs State Park
State Park
Cherry Springs State Park is nearly as remote and wild today as it was two centuries ago.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Clear Creek State Park
State Park
Clear Creek State Park encompasses 1,901 acres in Jefferson County.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Codorus State Park
State Park
The 3,500-acre Codorus State Park is in the rolling hills of southern York County.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Colonel Denning State Park
State Park
Colonel Denning State Park, in north-central Cumberland County, has 273 acres of woodland and a 3.5-acre lake.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Colton Point State Park
State Park
On the west rim of Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, the 368-acre Colton Point State Park offers rugged overlooks with great views of the canyon.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Cook Forest State Park
State Park
The 8,500-acre Cook Forest State Park and 3,136-acre Clarion River Lands lie in scenic northwestern Pennsylvania.
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Cowans Gap State Park
State Park
Cowans Gap State Park is a 1,085-acre park in the beautiful Allens Valley of Fulton County.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
Show 102 more Pennsylvania entries
- Official page
Delaware Canal State Park
State Park
A walk along the 58.89-mile-long towpath of Delaware Canal State Park is a stroll into American history.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Denton Hill State Park
State Park
Denton Hill State park is located in the upper reaches of the Pennsylvania Wilds.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Elk State Park
State Park
The 3,192-acre Elk State Park is in the rugged mountains of northern Pennsylvania.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Erie Bluffs State Park
State Park
The 587-acre Erie Bluffs State Park lies along the Lake Erie shoreline in western Erie County, twelve miles west of the city of Erie.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
- Geocaching
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Evansburg State Park
State Park
Evansburg State Park is in southcentral Montgomery County between Norristown and Collegeville.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Fort Washington State Park
State Park
Rich in modern recreational facilities and historical significance, Fort Washington blossoms with flowering dogwood in the spring.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Fowlers Hollow State Park
State Park
The 104-acre Fowlers Hollow State Park is in a narrow valley created by Fowler Hollow Run.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Frances Slocum State Park
State Park
Frances Slocum State Park consists of 1,035 acres in northeastern Pennsylvania's Luzerne County.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
French Creek State Park
State Park
Once an industrial complex for the fledgling United States of America, today French Creek State Park is an oasis for people and wildlife.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Gifford Pinchot State Park
State Park
Gifford Pinchot State Park, a 2,338-acre, full-service park, is in northern York County along PA 177 between the towns of Rossville and Lewisberry.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Gouldsboro State Park
State Park
Gouldsboro State Park, in Monroe and Wayne counties in northeastern Pennsylvania, contains 2,800 acres of land.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Greenwood Furnace State Park
State Park
The park is on the western edge of the Seven Mountains in northeastern Huntingdon County, an area of rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, breathtaking vistas, and peaceful solitude.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Hickory Run State Park
State Park
The 15,990-acre Hickory Run State Park, Carbon County, lies in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
- Geocaching
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Hillman State Park
State Park
This park is managed for hunting by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Hills Creek State Park
State Park
Located in scenic Tioga County, the 407-acre Hills Creek State Park abounds in wildlife.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Hyner Run State Park
State Park
Hyner Run carves a small valley from the surrounding steep mountains, creating a cozy, quiet place for outdoor adventures.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Hyner View State Park
State Park
Hyner View State Park features a scenic vista and is a favorite spot for hang gliding.
- Picnicking
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center
State park system area
Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center encompasses 1,168 acres of forests, fields, and creeks, which provide a wealth of recreational and educational opportunities.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Jennings Environmental Education Center
State park system area
Jennings Environmental Education Center is one of several state parks specifically dedicated to providing environmental education and recreational programs to the community.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area
State park system area
Straddling Peters Mountain, the 803-acre Joseph E. Ibberson Conservation Area is dominated by large hardwood trees.
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Kettle Creek State Park
State Park
Kettle Creek State Park consists of 1,793 acres along Kettle Creek in western Clinton County.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Keystone State Park
State Park
The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park is great for day-trips and family vacations year-round.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
State park system area
Kings Gap Environmental Education Center consists of 2,531 acres of forest on South Mountain, with more than 25 miles of hiking trails.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Kinzua Bridge State Park
State Park
The 339-acre Kinzua Bridge State Park, located in McKean County, is the home of the reinvented Kinzua Viaduct.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Kooser State Park
State Park
In the heart of the Laurel Highlands at an altitude of 2,600 feet, Kooser State Park spans 250 acres of forest with a trout stream running its full length.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Lackawanna State Park
State Park
The 1,445-acre Lackawanna State Park is in northeastern Pennsylvania, ten miles north of Scranton.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Laurel Caverns State Park
State Park
Laurel Caverns State Park, Pennsylvania's first and only underground state park, consists of 426 acres of mountainous terrain on Chestnut Ridge in Fayette County.
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Laurel Hill State Park
State Park
Laurel Hill State Park consists of 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain in Somerset County.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Laurel Mountain State Park
State Park
High atop Laurel Ridge at close to 3,000 feet in elevation, Laurel Mountain State Park features a family-oriented downhill skiing area and views of the Ligonier Valley.
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Laurel Ridge State Park
State Park
The 13,625-acre Laurel Ridge State Park stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle, to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown.
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Laurel Summit State Park
State Park
Laurel Summit State Park is a six-acre scenic picnic area 2,739 feet above sea level, with picnic tables, a pavilion, water, and a restroom.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Lehigh Gorge State Park (North)
State Park
A deep, steep-walled gorge carved by a river, thick vegetation, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls characterize Lehigh Gorge State Park.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Lehigh Gorge State Park (South)
State Park
A deep, steep-walled gorge carved by a river, thick vegetation, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls characterize Lehigh Gorge State Park.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Leonard Harrison State Park
State Park
On the east rim of the canyon, the 585-acre Leonard Harrison State Park has modern facilities, a visitor center, and the most famous scenic views of the canyon.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Linn Run State Park
State Park
The varied topography and mixed hardwood and evergreen forest make the 612-acre Linn Run State Park a scenic place for picnicking, hiking, and cabin rentals.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Little Buffalo State Park
State Park
Little Buffalo State Park centers on Little Buffalo Creek, where thousands of people come to picnic, swim, fish, hike, and experience nature and history.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Little Pine State Park
State Park
The 2,158-acre Little Pine State Park sits within a mountain section of Tiadaghton State Forest in the Pennsylvania Wilds, centered on the 45-acre Little Pine Lake.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Camping
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Locust Lake State Park
State Park
Known for its popular camping area, the 1,772-acre Locust Lake State Park nestles on the side of Locust Mountain around the 52-acre Locust Lake.
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Lyman Run State Park
State Park
The 595-acre Lyman Run State Park in scenic Potter County surrounds the 45-acre Lyman Run Lake within a mixed northern hardwood forest.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Marsh Creek State Park
State Park
Marsh Creek State Park spans 1,784 acres in the rolling hills of Chester County and contains the 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Maurice K. Goddard State Park
State Park
The 2,856-acre Maurice K. Goddard State Park features the 1,680-acre Lake Wilhelm, popular with anglers and boaters, plus wetlands and mature forests that support abundant wildlife.
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
McCalls Dam State Park
State Park
The quiet, remote eight-acre McCalls Dam State Park sits along White Deer Creek and is surrounded by Bald Eagle State Forest.
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Picnicking
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
McConnells Mill State Park
State Park
McConnells Mill State Park encompasses 2,546 acres of the Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark with scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and a historic gristmill and covered bridge.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Climbing
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Memorial Lake State Park
State Park
Memorial Lake State Park covers 230 acres near the base of Blue Mountain in Lebanon County, surrounded by Fort Indiantown Gap.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Milton State Park
State Park
Milton State Park is an 82-acre island on the West Branch Susquehanna River, with day-use facilities on its northern half and a wooded southern half.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Mont Alto State Park
State Park
This quiet 24-acre park features a pavilion, picnicking, and trout fishing, and is the oldest park still in the Pennsylvania state park system.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Moraine State Park
State Park
The 16,725-acre Moraine State Park centers on the 3,225-acre Lake Arthur with 42 miles of shoreline and offers year-round recreation across restored landscape.
- Biking
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Mount Pisgah State Park
State Park
The 1,302-acre Mount Pisgah State Park lies in the Endless Mountains region of Bradford County, with the 75-acre Stephen Foster Lake at the base of Mt. Pisgah.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Nescopeck State Park
State Park
The 3,550-acre Nescopeck State Park encompasses wetlands, forests, and diverse habitats between Mount Yeager and Nescopeck Mountain, with Nescopeck Creek running through it.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Neshaminy State Park
State Park
Neshaminy State Park covers 339 acres along the Delaware River in lower Bucks County and includes picnic areas, a swimming pool, a marina, and a children's spray park.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Nockamixon State Park
State Park
The 5,286-acre Nockamixon State Park in Bucks County surrounds the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon, a destination for boaters and anglers.
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Biking
- Disc Golf
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Boating
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center
State park system area
Nolde Forest encompasses more than 725 acres of deciduous woodlands and coniferous plantations, with a trail network linking streams, ponds, and an environmental education center.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Norristown Farm Park
State park system area
The 690-acre Norristown Farm Park is a working farm in continuous use since colonial times, with hiking trails, a trout nursery, wetlands, streams, and 15 historic buildings.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ohiopyle State Park
State Park
Ohiopyle State Park encompasses roughly 20,500 acres of the Laurel Highlands, with the Youghiogheny River Gorge offering some of the best whitewater boating in the eastern United States.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Climbing
- Camping
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Oil Creek State Park
State Park
Oil Creek State Park tells the story of the early petroleum industry along scenic Oil Creek, the site of the world's first commercial oil well.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ole Bull State Park
State Park
Ole Bull State Park consists of 132 acres along the Kettle Creek Valley in Potter County, in an area known as the Black Forest for its dense tree cover.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Parker Dam State Park
State Park
The 968-acre Parker Dam State Park offers a scenic lake, rustic cabins, and a campground, and serves as a gateway to Moshannon State Forest.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Geocaching
- Hunting
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Patterson State Park
State Park
Located in a remote area, Patterson State Park has two rustic picnic pavilions and serves as a trailhead for the Susquehannock Trail.
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Penn-Roosevelt State Park
State Park
This 41-acre park sits in the Stone Creek Kettle of the Seven Mountains region, surrounded by an 80,000-acre block of Rothrock State Forest.
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
State Park
The 696-acre Pine Grove Furnace State Park lies at the northern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with two mountain lakes, the Appalachian Trail, and a historic iron furnace community.
- Hiking
- Biking
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Poe Paddy State Park
State Park
Poe Paddy State Park sits at the confluence of Big Poe Creek and Penns Creek, a trout angler's paradise known for its green drake mayfly hatch, with access to the Mid State Trail.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Poe Valley State Park
State Park
Cozy Poe Valley State Park is nestled in a rugged mountain valley in Centre County, with forests surrounding the 25-acre Poe Lake.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Point State Park
State Park
Point State Park, at the confluence of three rivers at the tip of Pittsburgh's Golden Triangle, is a National Historic Landmark preserving French and Indian War heritage.
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Presque Isle State Park
State Park
Presque Isle State Park is Pennsylvania's only seashore, a sandy peninsula on Lake Erie and a National Natural Landmark favored by migrating birds.
- Swimming
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Prince Gallitzin State Park
State Park
At Prince Gallitzin State Park, the forested hills of the Allegheny Plateau cradle the 1,635-acre Glendale Lake with 26 miles of shoreline.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Disc Golf
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Camping
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Promised Land State Park
State Park
About 3,000 acres in size, Promised Land State Park sits on the Pocono Plateau, surrounded by 12,464 acres of Delaware State Forest, with two lakes and rustic cabins.
- Fishing
- Camping
- Hiking
- Boating
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Prompton State Park
State Park
Prompton State Park provides boat launching and picnicking facilities at the 290-acre Prompton Lake, surrounded by 26 miles of hiking trails.
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Prouty Place State Park
State Park
The five-acre Prouty Place State Park is a remote park offering access to hunting, fishing, and hiking within the surrounding Susquehannock State Forest.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Pymatuning State Park
State Park
At 16,892 acres, Pymatuning State Park is one of Pennsylvania's largest state parks and surrounds the 17,088-acre Pymatuning Reservoir, the largest lake in the Commonwealth.
- Biking
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Raccoon Creek State Park
State Park
Raccoon Creek State Park encompasses 7,572 acres and features the 101-acre Raccoon Lake, with facilities including CCC-era group camps.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ralph Stover State Park
State Park
Tohickon Creek flows through the 45-acre Ralph Stover State Park, whose nearby High Rocks section offers a scenic overlook of the creek.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Climbing
- Paddling
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ravensburg State Park
State Park
The 78-acre Ravensburg State Park lies in a steep-walled gorge carved by Rauchtown Run, nearly surrounded by Tiadaghton State Forest.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Raymond B. Winter State Park
State Park
Raymond B. Winter State Park covers 695 acres within Bald Eagle State Forest, centered on Halfway Lake and contained by a native sandstone dam.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Reeds Gap State Park
State Park
Reeds Gap State Park is 220 acres of wilderness in the New Lancaster Valley of Mifflin County, with hemlocks and white pines along Honey Creek.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ricketts Glen State Park
State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park comprises 13,193 acres and harbors the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark with 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail System.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ridley Creek State Park
State Park
Ridley Creek State Park encompasses more than 2,606 acres of Delaware County woodlands and meadows bisected by Ridley Creek, only 16 miles from Philadelphia.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Ryerson Station State Park
State Park
The 1,164-acre Ryerson Station State Park sits in the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania near the West Virginia border, with a swimming pool and campground.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Salt Springs State Park
State Park
The 405-acre Salt Springs State Park features towering old growth hemlocks and a rocky gorge cut by Fall Brook with its three waterfalls.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Samuel S. Lewis State Park
State Park
This 85-acre state park is dominated by Mt. Pisgah, an 885-foot ridge with mowed fields, a pine plantation, and mature woods.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Sand Bridge State Park
State Park
Sand Bridge State Park is a small picnic spot along Rapid Run, with rustic pavilions on the side of Seven Notch Mountain.
- Fishing
- Picnicking
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Shawnee State Park
State Park
Shawnee State Park is 3,983 acres of Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley Province, with the 451-acre Shawnee Lake as its focal point.
- Biking
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Shikellamy State Park
State Park
Shikellamy State Park spans two sections at the confluence of the North and West branches of the Susquehanna River, with a marina and a 360-foot clifftop overlook.
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Simon B. Elliott State Park
State Park
The 318-acre Simon B. Elliott State Park sits in the heart of Moshannon State Forest, with swamp meadows and a mixed hardwood and oak forest.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Sinnemahoning State Park
State Park
Sinnemahoning State Park encompasses 1,910 acres in the Pennsylvania Wilds, with a 145-acre reservoir and wildlife including bald eagle, elk, and bobcat.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Sizerville State Park
State Park
The 386-acre Sizerville State Park is nearly surrounded by Elk State Forest and serves as a base for exploring nearby public lands.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Susquehanna Riverlands State Park
State Park
The 1,044-acre Susquehanna Riverlands State Park lies along the confluence of Codorus Creek with the Susquehanna River, with rock vistas and a stretch of the Mason-Dixon Trail.
- Boating
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Susquehanna State Park
State Park
This 20-acre riverfront recreational area is in the city of Williamsport, operated by the Williamsport Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with DCNR.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Susquehannock State Park
State Park
The 224-acre Susquehannock State Park sits on a wooded plateau overlooking the Susquehanna River in southern Lancaster County, part of a complex offering nearly 450 acres of public access.
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Swatara State Park
State Park
The 3,520-acre Swatara State Park consists of rolling fields and woodlands in the Swatara Valley, with scenic Swatara Creek running its length.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Tobyhanna State Park
State Park
Tobyhanna State Park covers 5,440 acres in northeastern Pennsylvania and includes the 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Trough Creek State Park
State Park
The 541-acre Trough Creek State Park is a scenic gorge where Great Trough Creek cuts through Terrace Mountain, with trails to Balanced Rock and Rainbow Falls.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Tuscarora State Park
State Park
The 1,618-acre Tuscarora State Park sits below Locust Mountain along Tuscarora Lake and houses the visitor center for Tuscarora and Locust Lake state parks.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Tyler State Park
State Park
Tyler State Park consists of 1,711 acres in Bucks County, with park facilities nestled in an original farm and woodland setting along Neshaminy Creek.
- Biking
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Upper Pine Bottom State Park
State Park
Upper Pine Bottom State Park is a small roadside picnic site that provides access to hiking and hunting on the surrounding Tiadaghton State Forest.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Varden Conservation Area
State park system area
The 444-acre Varden Conservation Area in Wayne County is a donated tract managed by Promised Land State Park as a place to learn about Pennsylvania's natural history.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Vosburg Neck State Park
State Park
Vosburg Neck State Park features 667 acres in an oxbow of the North Branch Susquehanna River, with historic buildings, seven miles of trails, and boating access.
- Boating
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Warriors Path State Park
State Park
The 349-acre Warriors Path State Park is a seasonal day-use area on a finger of land bounded on three sides by the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River in southern Pennsylvania.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Washington Crossing Historic Park
State park system area
Washington Crossing Historic Park preserves the site of George Washington's boat crossing of the Delaware River during the American Revolution and is a National Historic Landmark.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Historic Site
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Whipple Dam State Park
State Park
The 256-acre Whipple Dam State Park is a quiet day-use area in central Pennsylvania with a lake for swimming and bird watching plus a beach, picnic area, and hiking.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
White Clay Creek Preserve
State park system area
The 1,388-acre White Clay Creek Preserve in southern Chester County centers on the White Clay Creek Valley, a federally designated National Wild and Scenic River.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Worlds End State Park
State Park
Worlds End State Park sits in a narrow S-shaped valley of Loyalsock Creek and spans 780 rugged acres surrounded by Loyalsock State Forest in the Endless Mountains.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Pennsylvania DCNR
- Official page
Yellow Creek State Park
State Park
The 2,981-acre Yellow Creek State Park in Indiana County surrounds the 720-acre Yellow Creek Lake, a destination for boating and fishing and a rest stop for migrating birds.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Beach
Pennsylvania DCNR
Inventory source: USGS PAD-US 4.1. Curated states also use official agency directories where available. Official reservations and rules remain state-specific, so use the state booking links above before committing to dates.
Getting around Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is wide, and the easiest plan is to pick a corner and fly into the nearest hub. Pittsburgh International (PIT) anchors the southwest and puts you about an hour from the Laurel Highlands and Ohiopyle State Park. Philadelphia International (PHL) anchors the southeast and is the natural gateway to the Poconos and the Delaware Water Gap, roughly a two-hour, 120-mile drive northeast. For the northern tier and Pine Creek Gorge, smaller regional airports like Williamsport (IPT) or State College (UNV) get you closer, though many travelers still drive in from Pittsburgh or Philadelphia.
A car is essential once you land, since the best parks sit well off the interstate grid. Distances between regions are real: Pittsburgh to the Pine Creek Gorge area is roughly 3 to 4 hours north, and Pittsburgh to Ricketts Glen in the northeast is a solid 4 to 5 hours, so most trips focus on one part of the state rather than crisscrossing it. Within a region the driving is easy and scenic. The Laurel Highlands cluster (Ohiopyle, the Great Allegheny Passage trail towns, the ridge trail) is tight enough to base in one town, and Pine Creek Gorge's two rim parks, Leonard Harrison and Colton Point, sit on opposite sides of the canyon about an hour apart by road. Fill the tank before heading into the state forests; services thin out fast.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best national park in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania does not have a designated national park, but it is rich in National Park Service sites and standout state parks. For outdoor scenery, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the eastern border offers waterfalls and river miles, while state-managed Ricketts Glen and Ohiopyle are the must-see natural areas. If you want a gorge view, Pine Creek Gorge (the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania) is the headliner.
When is the best time to visit Pennsylvania's parks?
Fall is the standout season for Pennsylvania's parks and forests. Foliage peaks from late September into early October in the northern tier, including Pine Creek Gorge and the Allegheny National Forest, and a week or two later in the south, with comfortable hiking days in the 50s and 60s F. Summer is warm and humid (often 80s F) and best for rafting and lake recreation, while winter brings snow that opens cross-country skiing and ice climbing at parks like Ricketts Glen.
Where can I see waterfalls in Pennsylvania?
Ricketts Glen State Park in the northeast is the top waterfall destination, with 22 named falls along the Falls Trail loop, headlined by the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. In the southwest, Ohiopyle State Park has Ohiopyle Falls on the Youghiogheny River plus the short walk to Cucumber Falls. The trails near these falls stay slick year-round, so grippy footwear is worth packing.