If you love nature, scenic hikes, and peaceful getaways, Pennsylvania’s state parks are hard to beat. With more than 120 parks across the state, it’s tough to choose just a few — but I’ve rounded up 15 of the very best to visit in 2025. From waterfalls and gorges to beaches and forests, these spots capture the true beauty of Pennsylvania.
1. Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen is one of Pennsylvania’s most famous parks — and for good reason. It’s home to 22 breathtaking waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. The park’s Falls Trail is the main attraction, winding through old-growth forest and past dozens of cascades.
If you’re visiting in late spring or early fall, the flow is strongest, and the forest colors make the scenery even better. Bring good hiking shoes because the rocks can get slippery.
- Official site: Ricketts Glen State Park – PA DCNR
- Don’t miss: Lake Jean — a peaceful spot for kayaking, swimming, or a lakeside picnic.
- Location: Luzerne, Sullivan & Columbia Counties
- Best for: Waterfalls and scenic hiking
2. Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle is the ultimate outdoor playground. You’ll find white-water rafting on the Youghiogheny River, natural waterslides, and Cucumber Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls in the state.
It’s also a major stop on the Great Allegheny Passage, a long-distance bike trail that runs from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C.
If you like adrenaline, rafting here is a must. But even if you prefer calm activities, the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks offer plenty to enjoy.
- Plan your visit: Ohiopyle State Park – DCNR
- Tip: The park gets busy on summer weekends — arrive early or visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
- Location: Fayette County (Laurel Highlands)
- Best for: Adventure and waterfalls
3. Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run stands out for its massive boulder field, a National Natural Landmark that looks like something from another planet. Kids love climbing around here, and photographers can get some amazing shots.
The park also offers nice hiking trails like the Shades of Death Trail (less scary than it sounds!) and a small beach area at Sand Spring Lake.
- More info: Hickory Run State Park – DCNR
- Best time to visit: Summer and early fall for hiking, or winter if you’re into snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
- Location: Carbon County, Pocono Mountains
- Best for: Unique landscapes and family trips
4. Presque Isle State Park
If you didn’t know Pennsylvania had beaches — surprise! Presque Isle State Park is a sandy peninsula that juts into Lake Erie, offering 11 miles of beaches, bike trails, and scenic views.
It’s perfect for swimming, picnics, and watching sunsets over the lake. Birdwatchers love it too, since thousands of migrating birds pass through each year.
- Plan your trip: Presque Isle State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Grab ice cream in Erie after a day at the beach — locals swear by Sara’s Restaurant right near the park entrance.
- Location: Erie, Pennsylvania
- Best for: Beaches, sunsets, and birdwatching
5. Leonard Harrison State Park
If you want to see something truly special, visit Leonard Harrison State Park — home to the Pine Creek Gorge, also called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.”
From the main overlook, you get a jaw-dropping view of the gorge stretching for miles. You can hike the Turkey Path Trail down to the bottom (it’s steep but worth it), or simply enjoy the view from the top.
- Learn more: Leonard Harrison State Park – DCNR
- Best season: Fall, when the forest explodes with color.
- Location: Tioga County (near Wellsboro)
- Best for: Epic views and hiking
6. Worlds End State Park
Tucked deep in the Endless Mountains region, Worlds End State Park feels like a hidden retreat. The park sits along Loyalsock Creek, surrounded by rugged forested cliffs and scenic overlooks that show off Pennsylvania’s wild beauty.
The Canyon Vista Trail is a must — it leads to a stunning overlook where you can see miles of forested valleys. The park also offers cabins, camping, and plenty of picnic spots along the creek.
- Official site: Worlds End State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Visit in October for some of the best fall foliage in the entire state.
- Location: Sullivan County
- Best for: Mountain views, hiking, and peaceful nature
7. Pine Grove Furnace State Park
This small but charming park is full of history — it was once an iron-making site during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it’s a peaceful getaway for swimming, hiking, and biking.
Pine Grove Furnace is also the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail, and you can visit the Appalachian Trail Museum while you’re here. Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake are great spots for a swim in summer.
- Learn more: Pine Grove Furnace State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Stop by the museum and take a photo with the “Halfway” sign — it’s a fun bucket-list moment for hikers.
- Location: Cumberland County
- Best for: Family-friendly fun and history lovers
8. Poe Valley State Park
If you prefer smaller, less crowded parks, Poe Valley is a true hidden gem. Nestled in a remote part of Bald Eagle State Forest, it centers around Poe Lake, a peaceful spot for swimming, kayaking, and trout fishing.
The park connects with nearby Poe Paddy State Park, making it easy to explore miles of forest trails. It’s a great destination for tent camping and stargazing — there’s very little light pollution here.
- More info: Poe Valley State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Pack everything you need before driving in — it’s remote and there aren’t many stores nearby.
- Location: Centre County (near Penn’s Valley)
- Best for: Quiet camping and fishing
9. Cherry Springs State Park
Cherry Springs is world-famous for its incredibly dark skies — it’s officially recognized as a Gold Level International Dark Sky Park. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way, countless constellations, and even the occasional shooting star.
It’s a peaceful park during the day, too, surrounded by the Susquehannock State Forest. But at night, it’s magical. Bring a telescope or just a blanket and enjoy the view above.
- Plan your visit: Cherry Springs State Park – DCNR
- Best time to visit: Summer and early fall when the skies are clearest.
- Location: Potter County
- Best for: Stargazing and astronomy
- Location: Potter County
- Best for: Stargazing and astronomy.
10. French Creek State Park
French Creek State Park is the largest block of forest between Washington, D.C., and New York City — over 7,700 acres of woods, lakes, and trails.
It’s perfect for families who want to camp, fish, or paddle on Hopewell Lake or Scott’s Run Lake. The park also has mountain biking trails, cabins, and great spots for watching wildlife.
- Official site: French Creek State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Visit nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site to see preserved 19th-century ironmaking history — it’s right next door.
- Location: Berks & Chester Counties
- Best for: Boating, biking, and weekend getaways
11. Cook Forest State Park
If you love tall trees and peaceful trails, Cook Forest State Park is a must-visit. The park is home to one of the tallest stands of old-growth white pine and hemlock trees in the northeastern U.S. — some over 300 years old!
Take a walk on the Longfellow Trail or climb the Seneca Point Overlook for sweeping views of the Clarion River valley. You can also kayak or canoe down the river for a calm, scenic adventure.
- Official site: Cook Forest State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Bring your camera — this park looks especially magical in the early morning mist.
- Location: Clarion, Forest & Jefferson Counties
- Best for: Old-growth forest hikes and kayaking
12. Kettle Creek State Park
Hidden deep in the mountains of north-central Pennsylvania, Kettle Creek is ideal for those seeking solitude. The park’s 167-acre lake is perfect for fishing and kayaking, surrounded by forested hills that come alive with color in fall.
It’s also great for spotting wildlife like bald eagles and black bears. The campground is quiet and scenic — perfect for unplugging from the modern world.
- More info: Kettle Creek State Park – DCNR
- Best time to visit: Summer for camping and boating; fall for colorful foliage.
- Location: Clinton County
- Best for: Fishing, camping, and peaceful getaways
13. Laurel Hill State Park
Laurel Hill State Park combines the beauty of the Laurel Highlands with modern amenities. The centerpiece is Laurel Hill Lake, a 63-acre lake ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boating.
The park also has over 70 miles of hiking trails, a sandy beach, and clean campgrounds — making it a great family-friendly destination.
- Plan your visit: Laurel Hill State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Visit nearby Laurel Hill Creek Natural Area for a peaceful forest hike away from crowds.
- Location: Somerset County (Laurel Highlands)
- Best for: Lakeside camping and family recreation
14. Nescopeck State Park
Located between the Poconos and the Susquehanna River, Nescopeck State Park is a peaceful spot known for its wetlands, forests, and wildlife. Over 200 bird species have been recorded here, making it a favorite for nature photographers and birdwatchers.
The Creek Trail and Eagle Rock Trail are easy, scenic walks suitable for all skill levels. It’s also a great park for educational programs and family picnics.
- Learn more: Nescopeck State Park – DCNR
- Best time to visit: Spring and early summer for wildflowers and migratory birds.
- Location: Luzerne County
- Best for: Birdwatching and quiet trails
15. Promised Land State Park
Promised Land State Park lives up to its name — it’s a tranquil mountain retreat surrounded by over 12,000 acres of forest. Two beautiful lakes (Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake) offer kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.
The park has cozy cabins, rustic campsites, and scenic trails like the Little Falls Trail. You might spot deer, bald eagles, or even black bears if you’re lucky.
- Official site: Promised Land State Park – DCNR
- Tip: Stay overnight in one of the historic CCC-built cabins for an authentic park experience.
- Location: Pike County, Pocono Mountains
- Best for: Boating, wildlife, and cabin stays
Quick Recap: 15 Best State Parks in Pennsylvania (2025)
| Rank | Park Name | Best For | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ricketts Glen | Waterfalls | Northeastern PA |
| 2 | Ohiopyle | White-water rafting | Laurel Highlands |
| 3 | Hickory Run | Boulder Field | Poconos |
| 4 | Presque Isle | Beaches | Lake Erie |
| 5 | Leonard Harrison | Scenic overlooks | Northern PA |
| 6 | Worlds End | Foliage views | Endless Mountains |
| 7 | Pine Grove Furnace | History | South-central PA |
| 8 | Poe Valley | Camping | Central PA |
| 9 | Cherry Springs | Stargazing | Potter County |
| 10 | French Creek | Lakes & trails | Southeast PA |
| 11 | Cook Forest | Old-growth trees | Northwest PA |
| 12 | Kettle Creek | Fishing | North-central PA |
| 13 | Laurel Hill | Family camping | Southwest PA |
| 14 | Nescopeck | Birdwatching | Luzerne County |
| 15 | Promised Land | Cabin stays | Pocono Mountains |
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania’s state parks are like a treasure chest — each one offers a different kind of magic. From roaring waterfalls at Ricketts Glen to peaceful stargazing at Cherry Springs, there’s a park for every mood and season.
If you want to explore more in 2025, make a bucket list of these 15 parks and see how many you can visit. Whether you go for a day trip or a full camping weekend, each park will leave you feeling refreshed and closer to nature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit Pennsylvania state parks?
Most parks are open year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to do. Late spring through early fall is ideal for hiking, camping, and water activities. Fall is perfect for foliage, especially in parks like Ricketts Glen, Worlds End, and Leonard Harrison. Winter is quieter, great for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in parks like Hickory Run.
2. Do I need to make reservations for campsites or cabins?
Yes, many parks require reservations, especially in peak season (May–September). Parks like French Creek, Laurel Hill, and Promised Land have cabins and campgrounds that fill up quickly. Check the official DCNR site for real-time availability: PA State Parks Reservations.
3. Are Pennsylvania state parks family-friendly?
Absolutely! Parks like Pine Grove Furnace, Laurel Hill, and French Creek are excellent for families. They offer easy hiking trails, picnic areas, swimming lakes, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Even adventurous parks like Ohiopyle have kid-friendly options if you stick to short trails or calm river spots.
4. Can I bring my pet to Pennsylvania state parks?
Yes, most parks allow pets on designated trails, but they must be leashed at all times. Make sure to clean up after your pets and avoid bringing them into sensitive wildlife areas. Parks like Cherry Springs and Promised Land are popular with hikers who bring dogs, but check each park’s rules first.
5. What activities can I do at French Creek State Park?
French Creek State Park is huge — over 7,700 acres of forests, lakes, and trails. You can:
Boating and paddling on Hopewell Lake or Scott’s Run Lake
Fishing for bass, trout, or panfish
Camping or staying in cabins
Hiking and mountain biking on trails through scenic forests
Wildlife watching, including deer, bald eagles, and songbirds
Plus, don’t miss the nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site to explore 19th-century ironmaking history.
