Pennsylvania State Parks Near Jersey Shore

Ravensburg State Park, established in 1933, is one of Pennsylvania’s smaller state parks, offering a serene environment ideal for day-use recreation. The park is characterized by its deep ravine, lush vegetation, and the clear waters of Rauchtown Run. Facilities include picnic areas, rustic pavilions, and a small camping area. The park is named after the ravens that once nested in the cliffs above the gorge. Its peaceful atmosphere and natural features make it a hidden gem in the Pennsylvania state park system.

Susquehanna State Park encompasses 20 acres along the West Branch Susquehanna River in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The park is renowned for its riverboat, the Hiawatha Paddlewheel, which offers interpretive cruises. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, picnicking, and birdwatching in a peaceful natural environment. The park is open year-round and provides easy access to the river and nearby attractions in Williamsport.

Little Pine State Park encompasses over 2,000 acres of forested land in north-central Pennsylvania. The park is known for its picturesque lake, abundant recreational opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the Pine Creek Gorge and offers year-round activities including swimming, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.

Located in Lycoming County, Upper Pine Bottom State Park is one of Pennsylvania's smallest state parks, encompassing just 5 acres. It is situated at the confluence of Upper Pine Bottom Run and Little Pine Creek, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is unstaffed and primarily used for day-use activities, serving as a rest area for visitors to the surrounding Tiadaghton State Forest and Pine Creek Gorge.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, Bald Eagle State Park provides visitors with a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park’s centerpiece is the Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, ideal for boating and fishing. With modern campgrounds, picnic areas, and an environmental learning center, the park is a popular destination for families and nature lovers. Its trails and observation areas offer ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

Located atop a mountain in Clinton County, Hyner View State Park provides one of the most iconic vistas in Pennsylvania. The park’s 6-acre area is centered around a stone overlook built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Visitors enjoy picnicking, hiking, and watching hang gliders launch from the overlook. The park is also a gateway to the larger Sproul State Forest, offering access to extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.

Nestled within the Bald Eagle State Forest, R.B. Winter State Park provides a tranquil retreat with its clear spring-fed lake, extensive picnic areas, and miles of hiking trails. The park is known for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, camping, and winter sports, all set against the backdrop of Pennsylvania’s scenic Ridge and Valley region.

Hyner Run State Park serves as a gateway to backcountry adventure in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. While the park itself is small, it provides excellent camping facilities and connections to vast trail networks in surrounding state forests. The nearby Hyner View overlook offers spectacular scenery and is one of the premier hang gliding sites on the East Coast, making this area a destination for both ground-based and aerial outdoor enthusiasts.

Located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Kettle Creek State Park spans over 1,793 acres and is surrounded by the vast Sproul State Forest. The park’s centerpiece is the Kettle Creek Reservoir, which provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation. With modern and rustic camping options, scenic picnic areas, and miles of hiking trails, the park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The remote setting makes it ideal for those seeking peace and solitude.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania's northern wilderness, Ole Bull State Park provides a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features shaded campsites, a swimming area, and access to Kettle Creek for fishing and canoeing. Named after Norwegian violinist Ole Bull, who attempted to establish a colony in the area, the park preserves both natural beauty and cultural history. It is an ideal destination for families and nature lovers seeking relaxation and outdoor recreation.