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Nature|National & State Parks

Go Hiking, Biking, Or Wildlife Watching At This Brand New 550-Acre Section Of Delaware State Forest In Pennsylvania

Published Oct 5, 2023

Written by 

Beth Price-Williams

A drive through Pennsylvania promises stunning views of the varied landscapes – rolling hills, farmland, fields, and forests. Even those of us who have lived in Pennsylvania for years, or maybe even our whole lives, might not realize just how much forest surrounds us. Pennsylvania boasts more than 16 million acres of forest land, including Delaware State Forest in Bushkill, Pennsylvania.

Delaware State Forest in Bushkill underwent a growth spurt recently, adding 555 acres to its more than 80,000 acres that spread across several counties, including Pike, Monroe, Northampton, and Carbon.

Sign welcoming visitors to Delaware State Forest, featuring the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources logo.
Facebook/Delaware State Forest

The new tract of land is located in Pike County.

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The previously private property was originally purchased by The Conservation Fund with ownership changing hands to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR) several years ago.

Lush green forest with tall trees, sunlight filtering through the leaves, and fallen logs on the forest floor.
Flickr/Delaware State Forest

Boasting forest land comprised of northern hardwood and mixed oak, the new tract at Delaware National Forest also features grassland meadows. Deer, turkeys, bobcats, porcupines, and black bears all live in the forest.

An orange salamander with black spots resting on a bed of brown leaves in a natural setting.
Flickr/Nicholas_T

The meadows also promise plenty of breathtaking wildflowers.

While the area is predominately forested, the 555 acres also include springs, seeps, and even 50 acres of wetlands. Native trout can also be found in Red Rock Run, which flows through the new area.

A single pink flower blooms among green leaves and mossy ground in a natural setting.
Facebook/Delaware State Forest

Like the rest of the Pennsylvania forest, the new land will allow outdoor adventurers to hike, bike, hunt, and fish.

A deer with antlers stands among lush greenery in a forested area.
Flickr/Nicholas_T

The land is currently open to visitors, and the DCNR will potentially add parking lots and trails.

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Lush green forest with tall trees, sunlight filtering through the leaves, and fallen logs on the forest floor.
Flickr/Nicholas_T

Learn more on the official website of Delaware State Forest. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this Pennsylvania forest.

Lush green forest with tall trees and dense foliage, creating a vibrant, serene natural environment.
Flickr/Nicholas_T

Have you been to the brand new section of Delaware State Forest in Bushkill, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! If you’re a fan of waterfalls, you’ll love these gorgeous cascades in Pennsylvania. (There’s even one in Pike County.)

If you plan on exploring the brand new tract of Delaware State Forest, make sure you’re wearing a pair of comfy hiking boots, and bring plenty of water.

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Nature|National & State Parks

Explore One Of Pennsylvania’s Cleanest Lakes At Prince Gallitzin State Park

Published Aug 14, 2024

Written by 

Beth Price-Williams

Spending the day at a lake in Pennsylvania is oh-so-easy, especially when we have more than 2,500 from which to choose. Some of the cleanest, clearest lakes in Pennsylvania are tucked in our 124 state parks. Whether you want to spend a day by the water or fall asleep under the starry sky, you'll quickly discover this Pennsylvania state park is bucket list-worthy.

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Stretched across nearly 6,250 acres in Cambria County, Prince Gallitzin State Park beckons outdoor lovers with its full menu of amenities - from hiking to horseback riding.

Sign for Prince Gallitzin State Park surrounded by a snowy landscape and overcast skies.
Facebook/Prince Gallitzin State Park

But it's the beautiful Glendale Lake that is, arguably, the gem of Prince Gallitzin State Park. Summertime means cooling off in the clean lake before drying off on the sandy shore of Muskrat Beach.

A sandy volleyball court by a lake, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
Google/Dancing Dolphin

The massive lake measures 1,635 acres and boasts 26 miles of shoreline. If you're looking for a bit of quiet, you're sure to find it at this Pennsylvania lake.

Don't forget a volleyball when you're packing your beach gear. A sand volleyball court overlooks Glendale Lake.

Slip your kayak, canoe, or boat into the water from one of more than a half dozen boat launches, and spend the day exploring the water. Iceboating is popular in the winter, although you'll need a launching permit.

A red kayak on calm water, surrounded by lush green trees and a cloudy sky.
Google/Kris Hoover

You can rent a variety of watercraft at the seasonal marina and boat rental.

Picnic tables, some of which offer lake views, dot the park, making it easy to have a meal and fuel up for more adventures.

A serene lakeside scene at sunset, featuring a vibrant orange sky, a large tree, and a picnic table by the water.
Facebook/Prince Gallitzin State Park

Even if you prefer to stay on land, you'll have plenty of chances to explore. The park features more than 32 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult.

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A wooded trail entrance marked "McDermott Trail," surrounded by lush green trees and rocky terrain.
Google/Anthony Scharf

Turn that daytrip into a camping adventure by pitching your tent or parking your RV in the campground. With paved sites, the campground offers a full menu of amenities, from a camp store and a swimming beach to boat rentals and playgrounds.

Two rustic cabins surrounded by trees, with a grassy area and bicycles parked nearby, near a lake in the background.
Google/Charles J.

Find more information on the official website of Prince Gallitzin State Park. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this

state park in Pennsylvania.

A serene river winding through lush green forests under a partly cloudy sky.
Google/Jonathan Dawson

Have you been to this clean lake in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! While you're at Prince Gallitzin State Park, follow one of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania. Find a full list of hikes on All Trails.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/waterfall-hikes-bucket-list-pa/

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Nature|National & State Parks

Tiny But Mighty, The Smallest State Park In Pennsylvania Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

Sand Bridge State Park in Pennsylvania, the smallest state park in the U.S., offers hiking, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

Updated Aug 8, 2024

Written by 

Beth Price-Williams

I love state parks in PA! With so many state parks - 124, to be exact - Pennsylvania truly offers something for everyone. If you're up for a quaint adventure, visit Sand Bridge State Park. It doesn't offer as many amenities as Pennsylvania's larger state parks, but you'll still find plenty to do to at the smallest state park in Pennsylvania.

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Tallying just three cozy acres, Sand Bridge State Park in Mifflinburg earns recognition as the smallest state park in Pennsylvania and in the United States.

Sign for Sand Bridge State Park Picnic Area, surrounded by trees, with a road and parked motorcycles nearby.
Google/Charles J.

Because this is the smallest state park in Pennsylvania, it only has one hiking trail that travels most of the park.

A serene stream flows through a lush green forest, surrounded by trees and rocks. Sunlight filters through the leaves.
Google/Dennis Vasbinder

Follow the picturesque trail that meanders past a small but breathtaking waterfall. It's the perfect backdrop for photos.

A serene stream flows over rocks, surrounded by lush greenery and trees, creating a peaceful natural scene.
Google/Nelson Miller

Fishing is also popular in Rapid Run. Your chances of catching a fish are pretty good, as it is stocked each year with brown and brook trout. In fact, it is one of the more popular state parks in PA for fishing.

A serene forest scene with autumn foliage, a small stream, and a rustic shelter nestled among the trees.
Google/Christine Coblentz

Bring a picnic along, too. The park has several picnic tables, charcoal grills, and two pavilions that are available for no fee.

A serene picnic area with wooden tables surrounded by lush green trees and a gazebo in the background.
Google/Joshua Bear

Remember to take out any trash you bring in. Sand Bridge State Park does not have trash or recycling.

It also features basic bathroom facilities.

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A rustic restroom building with two doors, surrounded by trees and a sign for accessible parking nearby.
Google/Anthony Scharf

The smallest state park in Pennsylvania is popular in all four seasons, so make it a point to visit. You'll discover vibrant foliage in the fall and a...

A wooden picnic shelter surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn foliage and picnic tables on the ground.
Google/Christine Coblentz

Snow-capped landscape in the winter.

A snowy landscape with trees and a wooden bridge over a small stream, illuminated by soft winter sunlight.
Google/Jessie Aigler

Learn more at the website for Sand Bridge State Park.

A serene stream flows through a lush green landscape, with a small waterfall and surrounding trees.
Google/Stacey Pence

Have you been to Sand Bridge State Park, the smallest state park in Pennsylvania? Tell us about it in the comments!

Do you have everything you need for a hike? Consult our Ultimate Hiking Packing List.

Craving an amazing weekend getaway? Visit this one small town in Pennsylvania.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/small-town-getaways-lititz-pa/

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