Endless Outdoor Adventures at Pennsylvania State Parks in Northeastern PA
Pennsylvania state parks in Northeastern PA offer some of the best outdoor recreation in the region, from hiking trails and fishing lakes to camping, glamping, boating and wildlife watching. With 18 scenic state parks across NEPA, outdoor adventure is always within reach in every season.
Explore forest trails, mountain views, meadows, lakes and waterfalls. Each park offers a different way to experience nature, relax outdoors and enjoy fresh air. Whether planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, these destinations make it easy to get outside.
Warmer months bring opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, swimming, kayaking and fishing. Visitors can explore shaded trails, launch a boat or relax at picnic areas surrounded by nature. Fall is perfect for crisp hikes and vibrant foliage views across Pennsylvania state parks. Winter opens the door to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and peaceful days of ice fishing.
Northeastern Pennsylvania’s state parks welcome families, solo travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Many parks offer overnight camping, from rustic tent sites to modern cabins. Pack a lunch, grab the fishing gear or lace up hiking boots—there’s always something new to explore.
Things to Do at Pennsylvania State Parks in NEPA
Northeastern PA’s state parks offer a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.
- Hiking scenic trails, including waterfall hikes and forest paths
- Fishing in stocked lakes, rivers and streams
- Camping at tent sites, RV areas and cabins
- Boating, kayaking and swimming in designated lakes
- Mountain biking on multi-use trails
- Wildlife watching and birding opportunities
- Winter recreation like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing
Archbald, PA
Located in Archbald, Archbald Pothole State Park is home to one of the world’s largest glacial potholes, a rare geological formation over 40 feet deep and wide. This small but fascinating park features a short loop trail through forested terrain along a former mining route. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk while spotting local wildlife and learning about the area’s glacial history. It’s a quick, unique stop for nature lovers exploring NEPA.
Learn More Lehighton, PA
A 949-acre lake anchors Beltzville State Park in Lehighton, making it a top destination for boating, fishing and swimming. The park also features 15 miles of trails, including routes to waterfalls and historic sites. Visitors flock here in summer for beach days and water recreation. With scenic mountain views and year-round access, it remains one of NEPA’s most popular parks.
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Stroudsburg, PA
Perched atop Camelback Mountain, Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville offers sweeping panoramic views across three states. The park features over 8 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Scenic overlooks provide some of the best sunset and fall foliage views in the region. It’s a go-to destination for elevated views and outdoor adventure.
Wyoming, PA
Centered around a 165-acre lake, Frances Slocum State Park in Wyoming offers year-round outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating and kayaking, along with miles of scenic hiking trails. The park also features camping, picnicking areas and a seasonal swimming pool. Its mix of water activities and open space makes it a favorite Back Mountain escape.
Gouldsboro, PA
Shaped by ancient glacial activity, Gouldsboro State Park in Gouldsboro features bogs, evergreen forests and a scenic 250-acre lake. Visitors can hike wooded trails, fish from the shoreline or enjoy boating and swimming in summer. The park’s diverse ecosystems support excellent wildlife watching. It’s a quiet destination for nature-focused outdoor recreation.
White Haven, PA
One of the largest parks in the region, Hickory Run State Park in White Haven spans nearly 16,000 acres of forests, trails and streams. Visitors can explore over 44 miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls and the famous Boulder Field. The park also offers fishing, swimming and camping throughout the year. Its size and variety make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
North Abington Twp., PA
Just outside Scranton, Lackawanna State Park in North Abington Township offers a peaceful escape with easy access to outdoor recreation. The park features a 198-acre lake ideal for kayaking, fishing and boating. Visitors can explore over 18 miles of trails for hiking, biking and wildlife watching. It’s a convenient, year-round destination for getting outside in NEPA.
Weatherly, PA
Stretching along the Lehigh River, Lehigh Gorge State Park in Weatherly is a premier destination for outdoor adventure. The park features the 26-mile Lehigh Gorge Trail, popular for biking, hiking and scenic waterfall views. Visitors can also enjoy whitewater rafting, fishing and wildlife watching. Its rugged terrain and riverfront scenery make it one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic state parks.
Barnesville, PA
Tucked into a quiet forest setting, Locust Lake State Park in Barnesville centers around a scenic 52-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming at the sandy beach and hiking along wooded trails. The park also offers camping with sites for tents, trailers and RVs. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular year-round destination for families.
Drums, PA
Spanning more than 3,500 acres, Nescopeck State Park in Drums features wetlands, forests and meadows rich with wildlife. The park offers 19 miles of trails for hiking and exploring the scenic Nescopeck Creek. Visitors can fish at Lake Frances or take part in programs at the Environmental Education Center. It’s one of the best spots in NEPA for birding and nature exploration.
Greentown, PA
Surrounded by the Pocono Mountains, Promised Land State Park in Greentown features two lakes and nearly 50 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming and camping across its expansive landscape. The park’s beaches and lakes make it a popular summer destination. Year-round recreation and abundant wildlife make it ideal for extended outdoor getaways.
Prompton, PA
A quiet escape in Wayne County, Prompton State Park in Prompton offers nearly 26 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The park surrounds a scenic 290-acre lake, perfect for fishing, kayaking and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy a popular disc golf course and peaceful forest views. It’s a great destination for a more relaxed outdoor experience.
Benton, PA
Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton features 22 cascading falls along its popular Falls Trail. Visitors can hike rugged trails, fish, swim and camp throughout the park’s expansive landscape. The 94-foot Ganoga Falls is a highlight for many hikers. It’s one of the best state parks in Pennsylvania for waterfall hikes and scenic views.
Montrose, PA
Home to old-growth forests and a scenic gorge, Salt Springs State Park in Montrose offers a quiet, rugged outdoor experience. Visitors can explore nearly 15 miles of trails leading to waterfalls, streams and towering hemlocks. The park also features trout fishing, rustic camping and peaceful picnic areas. Its remote setting makes it ideal for hiking and nature photography.
Pine Grove, PA
Covering more than 3,500 acres, Swatara State Park in Pine Grove offers miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. A section of the Appalachian Trail passes through the park, adding to its appeal for long-distance hikers. Swatara Creek provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing and wildlife watching. The park’s mix of history and recreation makes it a versatile outdoor destination.
Learn More Tobyhanna, PA
Surrounded by forests and wetlands, Tobyhanna State Park in Tobyhanna features a 170-acre lake and more than 10 miles of trails. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating and hiking throughout the park. Camping, picnicking and wildlife viewing add to its appeal. Its accessible location makes it a popular destination for families and day trips.
Barnesville, PA
Set along the foothills of Locust Mountain, Tuscarora State Park in Barnesville offers scenic trails and a tranquil 96-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming and picnicking in a peaceful setting. The park’s trail system winds through forests, wetlands and open fields. It’s a reliable year-round destination for families and nature lovers.
Tunkhannock, PA
Located along a sweeping bend of the Susquehanna River, Vosburg Neck State Park in Tunkhannock offers scenic trails and river access. Visitors can hike, kayak, fish and spot wildlife including bald eagles. The park also features historic farmland and wooded landscapes. As one of the region’s newest state parks, it continues to grow as a destination for outdoor recreation.
Conservation Tip
By following these responsible outdoor ethics from our friends at DCNR, we can help keep Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests top-tier outdoor recreation destinations for generations to come.
Leave No Trace
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, prepare for weather and emergencies, travel in small groups, minimize waste, and use a map and compass instead of marking trails.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on established trails, camp at least 200 feet from water, and avoid damaging pristine areas.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, use catholes for human waste, and wash dishes 200 feet from water sources with biodegradable soap.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve historical sites, avoid disturbing nature, and prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use stoves when possible, keep fires small, burn wood to ash, and fully extinguish campfires.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance, don’t feed animals, store food properly, and control pets to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect others by keeping noise low, yielding on trails, and camping away from high-traffic areas.
Plan Your Visit to Pennsylvania State Parks in NEPA
Planning a visit to Pennsylvania state parks in Northeastern PA is easy with year-round access and a wide range of amenities. Many parks offer parking, restrooms, picnic areas and boat launches. Visitors can check seasonal conditions, trail maps and park alerts through the Pennsylvania DCNR website before heading out.
Whether exploring for a few hours or planning a weekend camping trip, these parks provide accessible outdoor experiences across NEPA.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 4/12/20.
9 NEPA State Parks
