McCall's Dam State Park
By Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain
McCall's Dam State Park is a small, secluded day-use park nestled along White Deer Creek in the Bald Eagle State Forest of central Pennsylvania. Surrounded by mixed hardwood and hemlock forest, the park offers a quiet retreat for picnicking, creekside relaxation, and wildlife viewing. Its rustic setting and limited development make it a peaceful stop for travelers exploring the forest roads and nearby state parks. The park traces its name to an early 19th-century splash dam once used to float timber down the creek, reflecting the region’s logging heritage. Today, visitors come for the cool, shaded picnic areas, access to the clear mountain stream, and the opportunity to enjoy a simple, low-key outdoor experience away from crowds and traffic.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed in most outdoor areas; clean up waste, avoid swimming zones and buildings, and follow posted Pennsylvania park rules.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
A tiny, rustic, and very quiet park loved for its creek, forest setting, and solitude, best for picnics, relaxing, and unplugging rather than amenities or structured activities.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring insect repellent; mosquitoes can be heavy near the creek.
- Cell service is spotty; download maps and info beforehand.
- Wear sturdy shoes for uneven, sometimes muddy hiking trails.
- Pack out all trash; limited facilities and no park dumpsters.
- Check weather and creek conditions before planning water activities.
- Arrive early on weekends; parking area is small and fills quickly.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near McCall's Dam State Park:
- Bald Eagle State ForestExtensive state forest lands surrounding McCall's Dam State Park, offering miles of forest roads, vistas, and opportunities for hunting, dispersed recreation, and scenic drives.0.5 miles away
- Raymond B. Winter State ParkA larger nearby state park featuring a swimming beach, lake, picnic areas, and access to Bald Eagle State Forest, popular for family outings and year-round recreation.8 miles away
- Poe Valley State ParkA remote state park centered around Poe Lake, known for fishing, swimming, and rustic camping in a heavily forested mountain setting.18 miles away
- Poe Paddy State ParkA quiet park at the confluence of Penns Creek and Big Poe Creek, popular for fishing, camping, and exploring the surrounding ridges and hollows.20 miles away
- Lamar Fish HatcheryA Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission facility where visitors can view trout rearing operations and learn about fisheries management in the region.22 miles away
Things to Do at McCall's Dam State Park
Camping at McCall's Dam State Park
No camping at McCall’s Dam; use nearby Raymond B. Winter, Poe Valley, or Poe Paddy State Parks instead.
Hiking Trails
McCall's Dam State Park offers a quiet, lightly used day-hiking experience with short trails and easy access to the creek. Hikers enjoy shaded forest paths, historic dam remnants, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing. Trails are generally easy to moderate, making the park suitable for families or relaxed outings, though signage can be limited and conditions may feel more rustic than larger state parks.
Mid State Trail – McCall’s Dam Segment
HardA rugged segment of Pennsylvania’s Mid State Trail passing through McCall’s Dam State Park and Bald Eagle State Forest, featuring rocky tread, steep climbs, and remote forest scenery.
McCall’s Dam Forest Loop
ModerateA lollipop-style loop using forest roads and singletrack around the park, offering mixed hardwood forest, stream crossings, and occasional views of the surrounding ridges.
White Deer Creek Trail
ModerateA scenic creekside route that follows portions of White Deer Creek near McCall’s Dam, with frequent water access, rhododendron thickets, and good trout-stream views.
Ridge & Hollow Connector Loop
Moderate–HardA loop combining a steep ridge climb with a gradual descent through a forested hollow, giving a good workout and a representative sample of Bald Eagle State Forest terrain.
McCall’s Dam Short Nature Walk
EasyA short, family-friendly walk near the park’s picnic area and along the creek, suitable for casual hikers and offering opportunities to observe local plants and wildlife.
Directions
From I-80, take the US 15 South exit at Lewisburg, follow PA 45 West to Hartleton, then turn onto forest roads following signs for McCall's Dam State Park along White Deer Creek.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is McCall's Dam State Park located and how do I get there?
McCall's Dam State Park is a very small, remote state park in Clinton County, Pennsylvania, within the Bald Eagle State Forest. It sits along White Deer Creek, not far from the village of Laurelton and about 20–30 minutes from Millheim or Lewisburg, depending on your route. Most visitors reach it via PA Route 192 and then follow forest roads (often gravel) into the park. GPS can be unreliable in the forest, so many people recommend checking a current Bald Eagle State Forest map or the DCNR website before you go and downloading directions for offline use. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent once you’re deep in the forest.
What is the park like and what can I expect when I arrive?
McCall's Dam State Park is more of a rustic picnic area than a full-service park. It’s only a few acres in size and is surrounded by Bald Eagle State Forest. Visitors describe it as quiet, shaded, and very low-key, with a few picnic tables, grills, and open grassy areas near White Deer Creek. There are no large developed facilities, no visitor center, and no big crowds—many people say they often have the place to themselves or share it with just a few other visitors. It’s a good spot for a peaceful lunch, a short walk, or a quick stop while exploring forest roads and nearby trails.
What activities can I do at McCall's Dam State Park?
Most people use McCall's Dam State Park for picnicking, relaxing by the creek, and as a trailhead or rest stop while exploring Bald Eagle State Forest. Common activities include: - Picnicking at the tables and grills - Wading or relaxing along White Deer Creek (water levels vary; it’s generally shallow near the park) - Wildlife watching and birding in the surrounding forest - Hiking or mountain biking on nearby forest roads and trails (the park itself has only short paths, but it connects easily to the wider forest network) Because it’s small and undeveloped, visitors often pair a stop here with hiking, fishing, or driving tours in the surrounding state forest.
Can I camp or stay overnight at McCall's Dam State Park?
There is no developed campground and no overnight facilities at McCall's Dam State Park itself. The park is day-use only. However, it is surrounded by Bald Eagle State Forest, which offers motorized and non-motorized campsites that can be reserved through the Pennsylvania DCNR system. Some visitors use McCall's Dam as a picnic or day-use area while camping at a nearby state forest campsite or at larger state parks in the region, such as Poe Valley or Poe Paddy. Always check current DCNR rules for forest camping, permits, and fire regulations before planning an overnight stay in the surrounding forest.
Are there restrooms, water, or other facilities at the park?
Facilities at McCall's Dam State Park are very limited. Typically, there are basic picnic tables, charcoal grills, and a small parking area. Restroom facilities, if present, are usually rustic (such as vault toilets) and may not be open year-round. There is no potable water source, no trash service in some seasons, and no electric hookups. Visitors often mention bringing their own drinking water, hand sanitizer, and trash bags, and packing out everything they bring in. Because maintenance can vary, it’s wise to check the DCNR park page or call the regional office for the most current information on what’s available when you plan to visit.
Is McCall's Dam State Park good for kids and families?
Families who enjoy quiet, nature-focused outings often like McCall's Dam State Park, but it’s best suited for self-sufficient visitors. There are no playgrounds, concession stands, or organized programs—just open space, woods, and the creek. Parents often let children explore the grassy areas, look for salamanders and insects near the water, or have a simple picnic. Because it’s remote, you’ll want to keep a close eye on kids around the creek and forest roads, bring all needed supplies (food, water, first-aid basics), and be prepared for limited cell service. For families wanting more amenities or structured activities, larger nearby state parks may be a better primary destination, with McCall's Dam as a quiet side trip.