Recreation
State forest visitors can find a whole host of recreational activities on Pennsylvania's 2.2 million-acre state forest system. Some of the most common activities include scenic driving, hunting, camping, hiking and nature watching. Others include hang gliding, dogsledding, and kayaking. Here is an inventory of the most common recreational activities and the sites, resources and facilities available.
Any organized races, contests, or commercial recreational events occurring on State Forest lands must be managed to minimize conflict with other forest users. Review the summary of Activity Agreements highlighted on the Do Business web page before you contact the appropriate Forest District office.
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Take a road trip to some of the most breathtaking vistas in Pennsylvania. |
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Whatever your hiking interest or ability, you'll find exactly what you're looking for within Pennsylvania's state forests. |
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Enjoy the solitutude and tranquility of spending a few nights in a state forest. From motorized and improved camping locations to true backcountry experiences, you'll find them in our state forests. |
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Enjoy a paddle down the famous Pine Creek or a tour of one the many ponds in the Delaware State Forest. |
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Pennsylvania's 2.2 million-acre state forest system is open to public hunting. Hunters can find everything from small game hunting to true backcountry wilderness experiences on state forest lands. |
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State forests provide some the finest fishing in some of the most pristine locations that Pennsylvania has to offer. |
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Pennsylvania's state forests are home to a myriad of species and feature some areas listed as Important Bird Areas. |
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From the technical and challenging trails of the Michaux to the long and winding roads of the Bald Eagle, state forests have something to offer riders of all skill levels. |
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Don't hibernate. Get out on the trail for some of most scenic and extensive cross country skiing opportunities in the state. |
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With miles of trails availabe throughout the state forest system, snowmobiling in state forests is second to none. |
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For the riding enthusiast there are many designated ATV trails within our state forests. |
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Most state forest roads and trails are open to horseback riding. Some state forests feature beautiful camping locations that can accomodate your horse and trailer. |
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This increasingly popular activity draws visitors to all of our state forests. Grab the GPS and see what you can find. |
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Learn about other recreational activities on state forest lands such as gold panning, rock climbing, and hang gliding. |
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DCNR is the primary coordinator for search and rescue efforts on state forest and state park lands. Find search and rescue and outdoor safety information here. |
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Visitors with mobility disabilities may request permission to use a powered mobility device on State Park and State Forest property. |




















