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Outdoor Adventure in PA State Parks + A B&B Stay
Summer is around the corner! It’s the perfect time to kick off the season with an outdoor adventure. Mountain laurel and rhododendron are in full bloom mid June to early July. Pennsylvania's State Parks offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, birdwatching and much more.
To help you find that perfect activity to explore Pennsylvania’s great outdoors, visit one of Pennsylvania’s 120 State Parks. Most parks offer a variety of hiking trails from easiest to more difficult as well as biking trails and other activities. Visit the web link to each State Park listed below for detailed trail descriptions. For a complete listing of Pennsylvania State Parks, click here.
North East
43-miles of trails lead through areas rich in historic and scenic interest. This is especially true from mid-June until mid-July when the mountain laurel and rhododendron are in bloom. Located off PA 534 near White Haven.
19-miles of trails are suitable for everyone from the casual walker to the experienced hiker. The trails travel around the lake, through wooded areas, old fields, open farmland or rugged terrain. Located in the scenic Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania’s Northern Tier midway between Troy and Towanda.
26-miles of trails vary from fairly level to very steep hills and pass old growth forest and waterfalls. Ricketts Glen is one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania located in Luzerne, Sullivan and Columbia counties. Park Office is located off Route 487 near Benton.
List of nearby Bed & Breakfasts.
North Central
11-miles of hiking trails pass through a variety of habitats that offer scenic views and wildlife watching opportunities. Located in Centre County between Milesburg and Lock Haven.
5.5-miles of trials circle the lake and connect to the Northern Extension of the Mid-state Trail. Located in scenic Tioga County north of US Route 6 and midway between Wellsboro and Mansfield.
Novice and experienced hikes will find an abundance of trails in the park area. Short day-hikes are possible on the many park trails. Backpackers can enjoy the 53-mile Donut Hole Trail. Located in western Clinton County, seven miles north of PA 120 at Westport.
List of nearby Bed & Breakfasts.
North West
From the depths of the Forest Cathedral to the heights of Seneca point, the 29 miles of trails explore diverse landscapes and habitats. Once called the “Black Forest” the area is famous for its stands of old growth forest. Park entrance is located off PA 36 in Cooksburg.
25-miles of trails begin in the scenic Clear Creek Valley and follow the Clarion River and wander across the surrounding hillsides to several scenic overlooks. Rhododendron and mountain laurel abound throughout the park. Located 12-miles from the town of Brookville.
52-miles of hiking and interpretive trails lead visitors through areas rich in historic and scenic interest. The Oil Creek Valley is the site of the world’s first commercial oil well. Between Drake Well Museum and Titusville to the north, the park entrance is off PA 8, one mile north of the Borough of Rouseville.
List of nearby Bed & Breakfasts.
South West
28-miles of trails wander through forests and grassy areas, along lake edges and past wetlands. The gently rolling hills, lush forests and sparkling waters of Lake Arthur disguise a land that has endured the effects of continental glaciers and massive mineral extraction. Located at the crossroads of I-79 and I-80 near Butler.
70-mile hiking and backpacking trail from Ohiopyle State Park to near Johnstown is the main feature of the park. The trail traverses state parks, state forests, state game lands and other public and private lands. Park Office is located in Rockwood, PA and is located in Fayette and Westmoreland counties.
Visitors walk along paved promenades on the riverfront and to overlooks for dramatic views of Pittsburgh, its busy waterways, scenic hillsides and many bridges. Natural landscaping and a 100-foot tall fountain enhance the beauty of this unique park at the “Forks of the Ohio.” The 36-acre park is located in downtown Pittsburgh.
List of nearby Bed & Breakfasts.
South Central
Many trails within the park and surrounding Rothrock State Forest offer hikers scenic views and glimpses of historical ruins from the 1800s ironmaking community. Nestled in the mountains of northeastern Huntingdon County, this historic park offers a unique recreational experience.
16-miles of trail explore wetlands, forest fields and the lakeshore. Located ten miles west of the historic town of Bedford along US 30.
This park serves as a trailhead for a variety of hiking trails within and connecting to the trail system of the Tuscarora State Forest. The park is located near Blain in Perry County.
List of nearby Bed & Breakfasts.
South East
18-miles of trails most interconnecting to allow hikers to tailor their outing to meet their individual desires. Located in northern York County between the towns of Rossville and Lewisberry.
60-mile long Delaware Canal towpath runs from Easton to Bristol and is a National Recreation Trail. Once trod by mule teams pulling cargo-laden boats along the canal, the towpath is used today by walkers, joggers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers and bird watchers.
23-miles of trails with excellent views of the park and surrounding countryside. Take a short walk or a long hike covering many miles. Located in Bucks County, the Neshaminy Creek meanders through the park, dividing the land into several interesting sections.
