Simon B. Elliott State Park
Simon B. Elliott State Park is a quiet, forested retreat in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Moshannon State Forest, offering a rustic atmosphere shaped by Civilian Conservation Corps history, clear trout streams, and abundant wildlife. Centered around a small lake and meandering creeks, the park provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, hiking, and seasonal hunting amid mixed hardwood and conifer stands. Its remote setting and minimal development make it a popular destination for visitors seeking solitude, nature study, and a traditional Pennsylvania woodland experience, while still being within a short drive of Clearfield and Interstate 80.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed on most trails and outdoor areas; no dogs in swim zones or buildings. Always clean up waste.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
A quiet, wooded park with spacious campsites, clean facilities, peaceful hiking trails, trout fishing, and dark skies, loved by visitors seeking a rustic, uncrowded nature escape.
Tips from Visitors
- Reserve campsites early during peak summer and fall foliage seasons
- Bring insect repellent; mosquitoes and ticks are common in warmer months
- Check trail conditions at park office before longer hikes or biking
- Pack layers; mountain weather changes quickly, even in summer
- Carry a printed map; cell service can be unreliable in the park
- Respect wildlife and store food securely to avoid attracting animals
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Simon B. Elliott State Park:
- Moshannon State ForestSurrounding Simon B. Elliott State Park, Moshannon State Forest offers extensive public lands for hunting, hiking on forest roads and paths, wildlife viewing, and exploring the broader Pennsylvania Wilds landscape.Within the park
- Parker Dam State ParkLocated north of I-80, Parker Dam State Park features a larger lake, swimming beach, additional hiking opportunities, and more developed facilities, complementing the quieter, rustic experience at Simon B. Elliott State Park.18 miles away
- Bilger’s RocksA unique sandstone rock city near Grampian, Bilger’s Rocks features massive boulders, passageways, and scenic overlooks, providing a striking geological contrast to the forested setting of Simon B. Elliott State Park.22 miles away
Things to Do at Simon B. Elliott State Park
Camping at Simon B. Elliott State Park
Rustic, mostly non-electric campsites with basic amenities in a quiet forest setting; reserve via Pennsylvania State Parks system.
Hiking Trails
Simon B. Elliott State Park offers peaceful, forested day hikes with well-marked, mostly easy-to-moderate trails. Visitors often note the quiet atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and shaded paths through mixed hardwoods and pines. Trails can be muddy in spots, but are generally family-friendly. Hikers appreciate the picnic areas, small stream crossings, and the park’s uncrowded feel, making it a relaxing place for short, scenic walks.
Old Horse Trail Loop
ModerateA wooded loop through mixed hardwood forest and hemlock stands, following old logging and horse paths with occasional rocky and rooty sections. Offers a good overview of the park’s typical terrain and passes near several small stream drainages.
Laurel Run Trail
Easy–ModerateFollows along Laurel Run through dense forest and moist ravines. The trail is generally gentle with a few short, steeper pitches and some wet or muddy spots after rain. Good for spotting ferns, mosses, and spring wildflowers.
Park Loop Trail
ModerateA longer circuit that links several park paths and service roads to create a full loop around much of the developed area. Rolling hills, forested stretches, and a few brief steeper climbs make it a solid workout without being technical.
Hemlock Hollow Trail
EasyShort, family‑friendly trail through a cool, shaded hemlock hollow. Mostly smooth tread with only mild grades, suitable for most hikers. Good option for a quick nature walk or as an add‑on to other routes.
Ridge & Valley Overlook Loop
Moderate–ChallengingCombines ridge‑top segments and valley paths to form a longer loop with sustained ups and downs. Occasional partial views through the trees of the surrounding Moshannon State Forest, with some rocky footing and steeper grades.
Directions
From I-80, take Exit 111 (Clearfield) and follow PA 153 north about 9 miles. Turn right onto State Park Road and continue 2 miles to the park entrance, following signs for Simon B. Elliott State Park.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at Simon B. Elliott State Park?
Popular activities include hiking several short forest trails, fishing in the small lake and streams, picnicking, wildlife watching, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Many visitors also use the park as a quiet base camp for exploring nearby state forests and elk viewing areas.
Is the campground at Simon B. Elliott State Park good for families?
Yes. Reviews often mention the campground as quiet, clean, and family-friendly, with shaded sites, modern restrooms, and a small playground. It’s not a party campground, so it suits families and those seeking a peaceful, rustic experience rather than lots of organized activities or nightlife.
Are there good hiking trails at Simon B. Elliott State Park?
The park has several short to moderate trails through mixed hardwood and pine forest, with some connecting to longer routes in the surrounding state forest. Trails are generally well-marked and lightly used, offering solitude, birding, and chances to see deer and other wildlife rather than big vistas.
Can I fish or swim in the lake at Simon B. Elliott State Park?
Fishing is popular; anglers report catching trout and panfish in the lake and nearby streams, especially in spring. Swimming is not a major feature here—there’s no large designated beach like some other state parks, so visitors mainly come for fishing, paddling small boats, and relaxing by the water.
What are the bathrooms and facilities like at the park?
Visitors frequently note that restrooms and showers are older but generally clean and well-maintained. Facilities are basic and rustic rather than modern resort-style. There are picnic pavilions, a playground, and water spigots, but limited cell service and no big camp store, so plan to bring most supplies.
Is Simon B. Elliott State Park crowded, and when is the best time to visit?
The park is usually uncrowded compared to larger Pennsylvania state parks. Weekends in summer see more campers, but it still feels quiet. Many reviewers recommend late spring and early fall for comfortable temperatures, fewer bugs, colorful foliage, and good wildlife viewing without heavy crowds or noise.