Big Pocono State Park is a great spot for hikers thanks to its location at 2,100 feet above sea level. You’ll find seven trails that vary in difficulty and length, offering something for everyone. Just keep in mind that many of them feature steep grades and rugged terrain, so it’s a good idea to come prepared.

If you’re looking for an easier option, check out the Indian Trail. It’s 1.3 miles long and leads to some amazing panoramic views from the eastern cliffs. For those seeking a challenge, four of the trails are under a mile but come with rocky surfaces that require a bit more skill. The South Trail is a favorite at 3 miles, offering two scenic overlooks that are definitely worth the trek.

Big Pocono State Park offers an exciting adventure for mountain bikers ready to tackle diverse terrain. Two of the park’s trails, the South Trail and North Trail Lower Loop, are open to both mountain biking and horseback riding, providing wide paths perfect for a thrilling ride with room to navigate around hikers and horses. While other trails and connectors remain off-limits to bikes, the park’s hard-surface roads give you more ground to cover and extend your ride.

Horseback riders can explore scenic trails with plenty of room to roam. The South Trail and North Trail Lower Loop are both open for horseback riding, providing a shared space where riders, hikers, and mountain bikers can all enjoy the beauty of the park. While horses are restricted from other trails and connector paths, riders can still take advantage of the park’s hard-surface roads, offering additional routes to explore on horseback.

Camelback Resort, located next to Big Pocono State Park, boasts some of the best slopes in the region for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. With 37 ski trails and 16 lifts, including two high-speed options, you’ll find plenty of runs to enjoy, along with halfpipes and terrain parks for added fun. The resort is equipped with state-of-the-art snowmaking technology to ensure optimal conditions all season long. After a day on the slopes, unwind at one of the resort’s many restaurants or bars, or relax at the hotel featuring an indoor waterpark.

Set against a backdrop of the Pocono’s natural beauty, Big Pocono State Park boasts a stunning landscape primarily characterized by its scrub oak forest. Vibrant blueberry bushes and delicate mountain laurel add splashes of color to the scenery.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife species. As you explore the trails, keep your eyes peeled for the occasional black bear, graceful white-tailed deer, playful foxes, and swift rabbits. Birdwatchers will love spotting the different species flitting through the trees, and you might even catch a glimpse of a wild turkey or timber rattlesnake if you’re lucky.

As the leaves change at Big Pocono State Park, you’ll be treated to a stunning show of fall colors! You’ll see brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows lighting up the trails, making it the perfect time to grab your hiking boots and soak in the beauty—it’s a sight you won’t want to miss.

About 800 acres of Big Pocono State Park are open for hunting, trapping and dog training. Popular game species in the area include black bear, deer, coyote, fox, raccoon, ruffed grouse, turkey, squirrel and rabbit. It’s important to note that all hunters and trappers must follow the rules and regulations set by the PA DCNR and the PA Game Commission. If you’re interested in dog training, you can do so in the park from the day after Labor Day through March 31.

Bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic with a view at one of the park’s three designated picnic areas. Each area is equipped with tables, charcoal grills, restrooms and waste receptacles for your convenience. The picnic areas near parking lots #2 and #4 also feature ADA-accessible tables, restrooms, and parking spaces.