Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
"Hershey is one of the nearest communities to the park. Visitors often come for a quick outing, fishing access, and the Buffalo Bill museum exhibits."
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area combines Nebraska history with outdoor recreation on the former estate of Buffalo Bill Cody. The site features the restored mansion, museum displays, shaded picnic areas, and access to the North Platte River for fishing and wildlife watching.
Lake Maloney State Recreation Area
"Hershey visitors can reach Lake Maloney quickly for an afternoon outdoors. The recreation area is a convenient destination for shoreline relaxation and fishing."
Lake Maloney State Recreation Area centers on a large irrigation reservoir with broad water views and easy access for boating and fishing. Its proximity to North Platte makes it a convenient outdoor escape for picnics, wildlife watching, and warm-weather recreation.
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
"Hershey is close enough for a short visit to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park. Residents and travelers passing through often visit for a historic outing and picnic stop."
This state historical park centers on Scout’s Rest Ranch, Buffalo Bill Cody’s 1880s home, and offers a glimpse into the life of one of the American West’s most famous figures. Highlights include the restored mansion, interpretive displays, and peaceful grounds in North Platte.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
"Famous for its chocolate and attractions, Hershey offers visitors the opportunity to combine amusement park fun with natural beauty at Boyd Big Tree Preserve, only a short drive away."
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area was established to protect one of the largest contiguous forests in the region. The area is managed for conservation and passive recreation, with a focus on preserving native flora and fauna. The preserve offers over 12 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and interpretive programs. Its proximity to Harrisburg makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a quiet retreat.
Memorial Lake State Park
"Visitors from Hershey, known for its chocolate attractions, often visit the park for hiking, fishing, and a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas."
Memorial Lake State Park serves as both a living memorial to Pennsylvania's military heritage and an accessible recreation destination. The park's flat, wide trails accommodate visitors of all abilities, while the 85-acre lake provides quality fishing. The unique setting within Fort Indiantown Gap adds historical context and maintains the park's memorial character.
Swatara State Park
"Famous for Hersheypark and chocolate attractions, Hershey residents and tourists enjoy Swatara State Park for hiking, biking, and a break from the busy amusement scene."
A unique park where the flat Swatara Rail Trail along the creek valley intersects with the rugged Appalachian Trail on the ridges. The 10-mile rail trail provides easy biking and hiking, while AT sections offer challenging mountain hiking. Excellent for both casual recreation and serious backpacking.
Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area
"Hershey visitors often come for a change of scenery, open shoreline, and reservoir fishing. It is a straightforward destination for a day on the water."
Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area offers broad water access, sandy shoreline, and a relaxed setting for day use and overnight stays. It is especially popular with anglers, paddlers, and wildlife watchers looking for a less crowded alternative to larger lakes.
Susquehanna Riverlands State Park
"Hershey, famous for its chocolate attractions, offers families another reason to visit the area with the park’s outdoor recreation opportunities."
Susquehanna Riverlands State Park spans over 1,044 acres of natural landscapes along the Susquehanna River. The park is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and is dedicated to conservation, recreation, and public enjoyment. Visitors can explore miles of multi-use trails, enjoy panoramic river views, and experience the region's rich biodiversity. The park is a popular spot for wildlife observation and provides access to the river for fishing and paddling.
Samuel S. Lewis State Park
"Hershey, famous for its chocolate attractions, provides families and tourists with a convenient option for outdoor recreation at the park."
Samuel S. Lewis State Park encompasses 85 acres atop Mount Pisgah, offering visitors stunning vistas of the Susquehanna River Valley and surrounding farmland. The park features open fields ideal for kite flying, shaded picnic areas, and several short hiking trails. Its elevated location makes it a popular spot for observing migratory birds and enjoying sunsets.
Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
"Hershey visitors combine trips to the famous chocolate attractions with nature escapes at Kings Gap, enjoying its trails and educational offerings."
Kings Gap Environmental Education Center offers year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation and learning. The park is dedicated to environmental education for people of all ages and features a wide range of programs, workshops, and events. Visitors can explore extensive hiking trails, enjoy birdwatching, picnic in scenic areas, or tour the Cameron-Masland Mansion. The park's diverse habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, provide excellent opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation.
Little Buffalo State Park
"Hershey residents and tourists enjoy Little Buffalo State Park as a natural retreat from the area's attractions, with opportunities for hiking and picnicking."
Little Buffalo State Park preserves an important piece of Pennsylvania's agricultural and industrial heritage while providing quality outdoor recreation. The restored Shoaff's Mill operates during the summer season, grinding grain just as it did for over a century. The park's trails explore varied habitats from lakeside paths to ridge-top forests, while Holman Lake offers tranquil fishing and winter ice sports.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
"Hershey visitors often combine a trip to the park with their chocolate-themed attractions, enjoying outdoor recreation and scenic beauty."
Sits at the exact midpoint of the Appalachian Trail and preserves important iron-making history. Features two beautiful lakes, historic structures, and serves as a significant stop for AT through-hikers.
Codorus State Park
"Hershey locals and tourists combine a visit to Codorus State Park with trips to Hershey attractions, enjoying the park’s natural beauty and outdoor activities."
A comprehensive recreation park in southern York County featuring the massive Lake Marburg spanning 1,275 acres. With 20 miles of trails, a swimming pool, full marina, and excellent fishing and birding, Codorus offers something for every outdoor interest. The lake's 26 miles of shoreline create diverse habitats attracting migrating waterfowl.
Colonel Denning State Park
"Hershey visitors and locals enjoy Colonel Denning State Park for outdoor recreation, hiking, and a break from the area's tourist attractions."
A small but scenic mountain park in the narrow Doubling Gap valley. The park serves as a major access point for the Tuscarora Trail long-distance hiking route. The steep climb to Flat Rock rewards hikers with outstanding views of the Cumberland Valley. Despite its small size, the park offers 18 miles of trails and a refreshing mountain lake.
Fowlers Hollow State Park
"Known for its chocolate and family attractions, Hershey residents and tourists often seek out Fowlers Hollow State Park for a quieter, nature-focused day trip."
Located in the heart of Perry County, Fowlers Hollow State Park provides a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features rustic campsites, a picturesque picnic area along Fowler Hollow Run, and serves as a gateway to the extensive trail network of Tuscarora State Forest. Its small size and remote location make it ideal for those seeking solitude and a close connection with nature.