Raccoon Creek State Park
Raccoon Creek State Park's 7,572 acres are located in southwestern Pennsylvania's Beaver County. The park is centered around the 101-acre Raccoon Lake, a popular destination for fishing and boating. The Wildflower Reserve, a 314-acre botanical preserve within the park, showcases over 500 species of wildflowers and ferns. With 45 miles of trails, the park offers excellent hiking and mountain biking. The park's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various waterfowl.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on 45 miles of trails, lake access, and pet friendly campground; prohibited in Wildflower Reserve—keep dogs leashed.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love the hidden Wildflower Reserve, scenic technical mountain-bike trails, family-friendly pool and lakeside picnics, and varied hiking near Pittsburgh.
Tips from Visitors
- Visit the Wildflower Reserve in late April through June for peak blooming season
- The mountain biking trails are challenging and well-maintained - bring proper gear
- Raccoon Lake offers excellent fishing for bass and panfish
- The Jennings Environmental Education Center nearby is worth a visit
- Bring a wildflower identification guide to enhance your nature walk
- Fall colors combined with late-blooming wildflowers make autumn spectacular
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Raccoon Creek State Park:
- Wildflower Reserve314-acre botanical preserve with over 500 plant speciesWithin the park
- Frankfort Mineral SpringsHistoric mineral spring and hiking area5 miles away
- Old Economy Village19th-century communal society historic site18 miles away
Things to Do at Raccoon Creek State Park
Camping at Raccoon Creek State Park
Raccoon Creek: 170+ sites, cabins, yurts; main campground mid‑April–mid‑October; reserve online; electric, water, restrooms; quiet hours, pets leashed, no alcohol.
Hiking Trails
Jennings Trail
EasyLongest trail in the Wildflower Reserve traveling past the historic Hungerford Cabin, vernal pools, forested banks along Raccoon Creek, spectacular wildflower diversity, and excellent wildlife viewing. Best visited April-May for peak wildflowers.
Max Henrici Trail
EasyWildflower Reserve trail exploring a forested valley with abundant ferns. Eastern section covered by wildflowers in spring. Named for Max Henrici who advocated for the reserve's preservation.
Meadow Trail
EasyTrail beginning and ending in hardwood forest with large meadow in middle. Best visited August-September when the meadow fills with late summer wildflowers.
Forest Trail
ModerateTrail outside the Wildflower Reserve circling through mixed hardwood forests around Raccoon Lake. Popular with hikers and mountain bikers with moderate elevation changes.
Directions
Raccoon Creek State Park is located on PA Route 18 in Beaver County. From I-376, take Exit 60 and follow PA Route 60 north to PA Route 18. Turn left on Route 18 and the park entrance is approximately 5 miles north. The park is about 25 miles west of Pittsburgh.