Pennsylvania State Parks Near Ridgway

Bendigo State Park provides a relaxing setting for day-use recreation, including swimming, picnicking, and wildlife observation. The park's centerpiece is a large, modern swimming pool, open seasonally, and several shaded picnic pavilions. The surrounding woodlands and riverbanks offer opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. The park is open year-round, with most facilities available from mid-May through mid-September.

Elk State Park, established in 1963, is located in the heart of Pennsylvania’s elk country. The park is centered around the East Branch Clarion River Lake, a 1,160-acre reservoir popular for boating and fishing. The park’s forests and open spaces are ideal for wildlife observation, especially elk, and the area is a destination for hunters, anglers, and families seeking outdoor recreation. Facilities include boat launches, picnic areas, and accessible fishing piers.

Parker Dam State Park features a 20-acre lake, historic Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, and easy access to the surrounding Moshannon State Forest. It is a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking, and winter sports in north-central Pennsylvania.

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s wilds, S.B. Elliott State Park spans over 300 acres of mature forests and rolling hills. The park is named after Simon B. Elliott, a prominent conservationist, and features several structures built by the CCC in the 1930s. Visitors can enjoy rustic camping, scenic picnic areas, and easy access to hiking and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Interstate 80 makes it a convenient stop for travelers seeking a tranquil outdoor experience.