Pennsylvania State Parks Near St. Marys

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.

Sinnemahoning State Park is renowned as one of Pennsylvania's premier elk viewing destinations. The park is managed cooperatively between DCNR's Bureau of State Parks and the Pennsylvania Game Commission to optimize wildlife habitat and viewing opportunities. The grassy opening near the viewing platform is specifically planted with clover and trefoil to attract elk and other wildlife. The park's remote location and extensive surrounding state forest create excellent habitat for Pennsylvania's largest land mammal.

Sizerville State Park is located in north-central Pennsylvania, straddling Cameron and Potter counties. It serves as a gateway to the vast Elk State Forest and is renowned for its lush forests, clear streams, and abundant wildlife. The park offers a variety of recreational activities year-round, including a modern campground, a swimming pool, picnic pavilions, and educational programs. Its proximity to the Pennsylvania Wilds makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.

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.

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.

Established in 1933, Bucktail State Park Natural Area encompasses over 16 miles of pristine forests and waterways in Cameron and Clinton counties. The park is a designated natural area, preserving the wild character of the Sinnemahoning Creek valley. It offers visitors a chance to experience Pennsylvania's unspoiled wilderness, observe native wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the region.

Located in McKean County, Pennsylvania, Kinzua Bridge State Park preserves the site of the Kinzua Viaduct, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. The park offers visitors a unique experience walking out on the Sky Walk, exploring the visitor center, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding forested landscape. The park is open year-round and provides opportunities for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal events.

Clear Creek State Park provides a peaceful retreat in northwestern Pennsylvania. The park is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, streams, and the meandering Clarion River. Visitors can explore over 25 miles of hiking trails, rent rustic cabins, fish for trout, and enjoy boating or swimming. The park is open year-round and offers both modern and primitive camping options. Its proximity to Cook Forest State Park and other natural attractions makes it a key destination in the region.

Patterson State Park encompasses 10 acres in the midst of the Susquehannock State Forest. The park features two picnic pavilions, open grassy areas, and access to a network of hiking and snowmobile trails. While the park does not offer overnight accommodations, its location makes it a convenient stop for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region.

Lyman Run State Park encompasses 595 acres of picturesque forested land and is known for its clear mountain lake, abundant wildlife, and year-round recreational opportunities. The park offers modern and rustic camping, a sandy swimming beach, picnic areas, and access to hiking and snowmobiling trails. Its remote location provides a quiet, natural setting ideal for relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Pennsylvania's premier destination for stargazing, with some of the darkest skies on the East Coast. The park's high elevation and remote location create perfect conditions for viewing the Milky Way, planets, and deep space objects.

Prouty Place State Park covers a modest area in north-central Pennsylvania, providing a peaceful escape for visitors. The park is primarily used as a base for hiking and hunting in the surrounding state forest. With minimal facilities, it appeals to those looking for a primitive outdoor experience and a gateway to the Susquehannock Trail System.

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.

Denton Hill State Park encompasses over 700 acres of wooded terrain in north-central Pennsylvania. The park is situated along U.S. Route 6, making it easily accessible for travelers exploring the Pennsylvania Wilds. Although the ski operations are currently suspended, the park remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, and a network of multi-use trails. The park is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.