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Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s–It’s Too Much!
Escape to Pennsylvania’s State Parks
By Carol Reed

As the leaves turn, and the colors of fall blaze, take a scenic road-trip to the fascinating parks in Pennsylvania. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate, a camera, and some binoculars to enjoy these fascinating and varied outdoor adventures.

Ralph Stover State Park, 45-acres in eastern Bucks County, PA, is named for the owner of an 18th century grist mill on the site. It was created in 1931, when the Stover family donated the land. Remnants of the mill and the millrace above the dam are still visible. The High Rocks section was added with the donation of land by noted author James A. Michener. The park has a beautiful shaded picnic area with water, picnic tables, pavilions, fireplaces and restrooms. Picnicking facilities are available along the beautiful Tohickon Creek.         

The park is very popular with “extreme” sports enthusiasts.  One of the few trails open to mountain bikers in Bucks County is a challenging ride past spectacular terrain above Tohickon Creek. The creek gets its name from the Lenni Lenape Indian word “To-Hick-Hanne,” meaning “deer bone creek.” To this day, deer and other wildlife are abundant in the area. The creek is very popular with whitewater boaters, canoeists and kayakers, and offers a very demanding course during times of high water. A boat launch is located at the bridge over the creek. At the end of March and the beginning of November, there are planned whitewater releases from Lake Nockamixon. For information, call Delaware Canal State Park at 610-982-5560. The creek contains several risky drop-offs, especially downstream. Paddlers should never boat alone.

The “High Rocks” cliffs above the creek are popular for rock climbing and rappelling. Experienced climbers use the 200-foot sheer rock face, but the cliffs are precarious. However, High Rocks is also noted for its spectacular views and fascinating geological terrain. Families can enjoy a “look” without the need for “extreme” excitement.

For the rod and reel crew, fish are abundant in Tohickon Creek and include small mouth bass, sunfish, carp, trout, and catfish. The Fish and Boat Commission regulations apply to licensing, seasons and limits.

Some Other Parks in Pennsylvania:

Canoe Creek State Park: Twelve miles east of Altoona is the largest nursery colony to little brown bats in Pennsylvania! Forests and old farm fields dominate Canoe Creek State Park. The 155-acre lake is a home for waterfowl and a haven for fishermen. The park boasts large bat colonies including the endangered Indiana bat and many other species which hibernate in caves in the park. It is a breeding place for over 20,000 bats. The visitor center has natural and historical exhibits and information.

Cherry Springs State Park: The darkest night skies! This 48-acre state park in Potter County is as remote and wild today as it was two centuries ago. Cherry Springs has the darkest skies on the East Coast. Amateur and professional astronomers come to the park for a 360° view free of light pollution. Cherry Springs offers camping and picnicking. A yearly Woodsman’s Show is the highlight of the summer. The Susquehanna Trail passes nearby and offers 85 miles of backpacking and hiking.

Hyner View State Park: See hang-gliders! Scenic vistas overlook the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and provide a favorite spot for hang gliding. This is one of the nicest scenic vistas in Pennsylvania. You can see for miles over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and surrounding mountains.

For more information on Pennsylvania’s State Parks visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks

Carol Reed is a middle school teacher & freelance journalist who specializes in travel writing. Carol’s journeys have taken her as close to home as the New Jersey Pines & as far as the islands in the Caribbean, New Zealand & Australia.