In Northeastern Pennsylvania, you’re never far from a beautiful park and Nescopeck State Park is no exception. Located in Drums, just a short drive from Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton, the 3,550-acre park encompasses wetlands, dense woodlands and a large variety of plants, animals and bird species.

Tucked in the valley between Nescopeck Mountain to the north and steep Mount Yeager to the south, Nescopeck State Park is a popular day-trip destination for hikers, anglers and anyone looking to escape into nature for a bit.

The park is situated around Nescopeck Creek, a scenic waterway that winds for six miles through the park’s diverse landscape.  The park also contains over 200 acres of forested wetlands. And with over 160 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles and amphibians, and over 600 types of plants, it’s home to an abundant biodiversity of flora and fauna.

Grab a park map and explore for yourself. Here’s a look at some of the park’s highlights.

Nature: The Trail Less Traveled

Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy 19-miles of trails that offer plenty to see. Along the 15 blazed trails, you’ll pass the stunning Nescopeck creek and enjoy the breathtaking landscape surrounding it, including wide open fields, verdant forests and seemingly endless wetlands.

Most trails begin at Honey Hole Road which is the main access road for the park. Visitors can discover the unique habitats in the park on trails that are easy, moderate or challenging treks.

For an easy 1.4-mile hike, the Farmstead Loop Trail travels through woods and meadows and follows the Nescopeck Creek. In this section the creek is wider and calmer. It’s possible to connect to the Lupine Loop (0.7 miles of more difficult hiking) from this trail.

For a challenging path, you’ll want to try the Mountain Loop Trail. This 3-mile journey offers some noticeable incline. The ascent up the mountain begins gradual and has periodic sections of additional steepness. And while there are no views at the top, it is a lush forest setting with a tiny stream crossing.

A friendly reminder, pets are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash. There is no biking on any of the trails.

Drop a line. It’s fishing time.

For those into fishing, Nescopeck State Park is a dream spot. The lake and creek provide excellent opportunities to cast a line. The 9-acre man-made Lake Frances can be accessed from a well-used trail that encircles it. It is stocked with trout, panfish and bass and accessible year round. Nescopeck Creek, a tributary of the lake, runs for six miles through the park and is designated as a high-quality, cold-water fishery. Brown trout and native brook trout are popular in this spot.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks both Lake Frances and Nescopeck Creek. If needed, fishing poles are available to borrow seasonally at the visitor center.

Plan A Trip

Explore the lands and learn something new on your next trip to the park. The environmental education center provides year-round educational programs for park visitors. An emphasis is placed on teaching about Nescopeck’s unique, natural biodiversity.

And for the kids, be sure to pay a visit to the Nature Discovery Area located by the butterfly garden near the park office. This imaginative spot is intended to nurture a sense of wonder by encouraging nature play.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset year round, while all day use areas close at dusk. Nescopeck State Park is close to I-80 just off PA 309 near Conyngham. It is located in close proximity to Hazleton, Mountain Top and Wilkes-Barre and just a short drive from area restaurants, lodging and amenities.