Ralph Stover State Park
Ralph Stover State Park is a scenic park located along the Tohickon Creek in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Known for its dramatic cliffs, lush woodlands, and recreational opportunities, the park offers visitors a chance to enjoy hiking, picnicking, rock climbing, and whitewater boating. The park's High Rocks area is especially popular among climbers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Ralph Stover Park: dogs allowed on trails/outdoors on leash ≤6 ft; owners clean up; no dogs in swimming areas/buildings.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
High Rocks cliffs, scenic Tohickon Creek: hiking, climbing, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, birdwatching; clean facilities and parking, busy weekends, arrive early.
Tips from Visitors
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots can fill up quickly.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the park.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the park can become slippery after rain.
- Respect climbing regulations and use proper equipment if you plan to rock climb.
- Pack out all trash to help keep the park clean.
- Be cautious near cliff edges and supervise children closely.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Ralph Stover State Park:
- High Rocks VistaA dramatic overlook offering panoramic views of the Tohickon Creek gorge and surrounding woodlands.0.5 miles away
- Tohickon Valley ParkA nearby county park with additional hiking trails, camping, and recreational facilities.2 miles away
- Delaware Canal State ParkA historic canal park featuring towpath trails, canal locks, and opportunities for biking and walking along the Delaware River.8 miles away
Things to Do at Ralph Stover State Park
Hiking Trails
Ralph Stover State Park offers scenic day hiking with well-marked trails winding through lush woodlands and along the Tohickon Creek. Hikers enjoy moderate elevation changes, rocky outcrops, and beautiful creek views. The High Rocks area provides stunning vistas and is popular with both hikers and rock climbers. Trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for families, though some sections can be steep or uneven. Wildlife sightings and peaceful natural surroundings make this park a favorite for a relaxing outdoor escape.
High Rocks Trail
ModerateA scenic loop trail along the cliffs, offering panoramic views of Tohickon Creek and popular rock climbing spots.
Tohickon Creek Gorge Trail
ModerateFollows the creek through the gorge, featuring rocky terrain, lush forest, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Ralph Stover Loop Trail
ModerateA longer loop that combines several park trails, passing through woodlands, creekside areas, and scenic overlooks.
Directions
From Doylestown, take PA-611 North to PA-413 North. Turn right onto Dark Hollow Road, then left onto Tory Road. The park entrance is on the left.
Nearby cities:
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can you do at Ralph Stover State Park?
Visitors enjoy hiking, rock climbing, picnicking, fishing, and exploring the scenic views at Ralph Stover State Park.
Is Ralph Stover State Park good for rock climbing?
Yes, the park is well-known for its rock climbing opportunities, especially at High Rocks, which is popular among climbers.
Are there good hiking trails at Ralph Stover State Park?
Yes, there are several hiking trails with beautiful views of the Tohickon Creek and the surrounding forest.
Is the park suitable for families and kids?
Many reviews mention that the park is family-friendly, with picnic areas and easy trails suitable for children.
Are there restrooms and picnic facilities available?
Yes, there are picnic tables and restrooms available for visitors, though some reviews suggest restrooms may be seasonal.
Can you swim at Ralph Stover State Park?
Swimming is not permitted in the park, but visitors enjoy wading and relaxing by the creek.