Colonel Denning State Park
Colonel Denning State Park is a 273-acre park located in the scenic Doubling Gap of the Blue Mountain range in Cumberland County. Named after Colonel William Denning, a prominent local landowner and Revolutionary War officer, the park centers around a 3.5-acre lake nestled in a narrow mountain valley. The park serves as a major trailhead for the famous Tuscarora Trail, a 252-mile long-distance hiking trail running from the Appalachian Trail to Pennsylvania's Path Valley. With 18 miles of trails within the park, including the challenging ascent to Flat Rock for panoramic mountain views, Colonel Denning offers excellent hiking opportunities despite its modest size. The intimate setting and cooler mountain temperatures make it a popular summer retreat.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on all trails and campground (not in lake); bring water, keep dogs controlled for wildlife, clean up.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Remote cool mountain retreat; Flat Rock’s steep panoramic overlook; Tuscarora Trail access/resupply; peaceful rustic campsites; fishing-only lake; 18-mile varied trails.
Tips from Visitors
- The hike to Flat Rock vista is steep but rewards with 180-degree views of Cumberland Valley
- Tuscarora Trail blue blazes mark the long-distance route through the park
- The park is 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys in summer
- Small lake is stocked with trout - PA fishing license required
- Limited cell service in the mountain gap - plan accordingly
- Campground is small and rustic - reserve ahead for summer weekends
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Colonel Denning State Park:
- Kings Gap Environmental Education CenterMansion and trails with environmental education programs on South Mountain8 miles away
- Pine Grove Furnace State ParkHistoric iron furnace site with two lakes, Appalachian Trail midpoint, and AT Museum12 miles away
- Carlisle BarracksHistoric U.S. Army installation and home of the U.S. Army War College15 miles away
Things to Do at Colonel Denning State Park
Hiking Trails
Flat Rock Trail
StrenuousSteep climb from park to Flat Rock overlook at 1,480 feet elevation. Rewards hikers with spectacular 180-degree views of Cumberland Valley. Blue blazed as part of Tuscarora Trail.
Tuscarora Trail (through park)
StrenuousSection of the 252-mile Tuscarora Trail passing through the park. Blue-blazed long-distance trail connecting to Appalachian Trail. Challenging mountain terrain.
Doubling Gap Nature Trail
EasyGentle interpretive trail near the lake exploring the unique ecology of the mountain gap. Educational signs explain local flora and fauna.
Hemlock Trail
ModerateLoop trail through stands of eastern hemlock on the valley slopes. Moderate terrain with some elevation changes through beautiful forest.
Directions
From I-81, take Exit 37 for PA-233 South toward Newville. Follow PA-233 South for about 3 miles to Newville. In Newville, turn right onto Main Street/High Street. Continue to North Ridge Avenue and turn left. Follow signs to the park on Doubling Gap Road. The park is approximately 8 miles from I-81.