Nescopeck State Park

Drums, Pennsylvania
Established 2005
3,550 acres

Nescopeck State Park is a 3,550-acre Pennsylvania state park in Luzerne County, known for protecting unique biodiversity and serving as an ecological treasure. The park features 19 miles of trails passing through diverse habitats including forests, meadows, and wetlands. Mountain biking is prohibited to protect the park's sensitive natural resources. The park serves as an important wildlife corridor and supports rare plant communities. As one of the newer state parks, Nescopeck emphasizes environmental education and habitat conservation while providing excellent hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Leashed dogs allowed on 19 miles of trails; keep under control, avoid wetlands and wildlife, clean up; no swimming.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Nescopeck's conservation-first approach: 19 miles of trails, excellent wetland birding, modern facilities, fewer crowds; biking restricted.

Tips from Visitors

  • Mountain biking is prohibited to protect unique natural resources - hike instead
  • 19 miles of trails offer excellent variety through forests, meadows, and wetlands
  • Excellent wildlife viewing - bring binoculars for birding and nature observation
  • Cross-country skiing is excellent when snow conditions allow
  • Environmental education programs available - check with park office for schedule
  • Visit nearby Lehigh Gorge for mountain biking opportunities

Amenities

RestroomsParkingPicnic AreasPavilions

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Nescopeck State Park:

  • Nescopeck State Park Nature Center
    Environmental education center with programs about the park's unique ecosystems
    Within the park
  • Lehigh Gorge State Park
    Scenic river gorge with rail trail for biking, close by for those seeking bike trails
    20 miles away
  • Ricketts Glen State Park
    Famous for 22 named waterfalls along Falls Trail and old-growth forest
    25 miles away

Things to Do at Nescopeck State Park

HikingWildlife ViewingBird WatchingCross-Country SkiingSnowshoeingNature Study

Camping at Nescopeck State Park

Nescopeck State Park: no overnight camping; day-use only, picnics, hiking, fishing; picnic areas with grills and restrooms; pavilions reservable; pets leashed.

Hiking Trails

Nescopeck Trail System

Moderate

Extensive trail network passing through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Trails interconnect allowing various loop options. Hiking and cross-country skiing only - mountain biking prohibited.

19 mi
Varies by route
800 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Wetlands Trail

Easy

Easy trail exploring the park's unique wetland habitats with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Boardwalk sections protect sensitive areas.

2.5 mi
1-1.5 hours
100 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Forest Loop

Moderate

Moderate loop through mature forest with some elevation changes. Good for observing woodland birds and wildlife.

4.5 mi
2-2.5 hours
350 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Directions

Nescopeck State Park is located in Luzerne County. From I-80, take Exit 256 (Drums/Hazleton) and follow PA Route 309 north. Turn left onto Honey Hole Road and follow signs to the park entrance. From I-81, take Exit 145 (Dorrance) and follow PA Route 115 south to PA Route 309 south to Honey Hole Road. GPS: 1137 Honey Hole Road, Drums, PA 18222.