Pennsylvania’s a nature- and outdoor-lover’s dream. Why? Well, just consider that PA is home to 121 state parks, which give us plenty of outdoor spots to explore. Still, with all those state parks, some do tend to get overlooked. Make a promise to yourself to visit some of the lesser-known state parks in Pennsylvania, where you’ll discover local wildlife, incredible trails, and gushing waterfalls. What could be better?

1. Allegheny Islands State Park – Cheswick
Allegheny Islands State Park, Cheswick, PA 15024, USA
Wikipedia/Clint
Climb into a boat, a canoe, or anything that floats to make the journey to Allegheny Islands State Park. In fact, that's the only way you can get to this tiny but mighty state park that features unmarked trails and native wildlife. The 43-acre state park, however, only allows camping for groups. Allegheny Islands State Park is located in Cheswick, and you can read more about this PA state park here.
2. Erie Bluffs State Park – Lake City
Erie Bluffs State Park, 11100 W Lake Rd, Lake City, PA 16423, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Most of us have probably heard of Presque Isle State Park. But, there's another hidden treasure in the area: Erie Bluffs State Park. Like Allegheny Islands State Park, Erie Bluffs largely remains undeveloped. For spectacular views of Lake Erie and beyond, climb the 93-foot bluffs. The day-use park only allows fishing and boating along its one mile shoreline. Erie Bluffs State Park is located at 11100 W Lake Rd., Lake City, PA, 16423.
3. Ravensburg State Park – Jersey Shore
Ravensburg State Park, 2388 Rauchtown Rd, Jersey Shore, PA 17740, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
At only 78 acres, the tiny Ravensburg State Park boasts plenty to do, including hiking the picturesque one-mile trail, picnicking, and camping out overnight. But, the hidden gem of the park just might be Castle Rocks, eroded sandstone that looks like a castle painted against the sky. Ravensburg State Park is located at 2388 Rauchtown Rd., Jersey Shore, PA, 17740.
4. Trough Creek State Park – James Creek
Trough Creek State Park, 16362 Little Valley Rd, James Creek, PA 16657, USA
Trip Advisor/Eileen W.
Stretching 541 acres, Trough Creek State Park promises plenty of beautiful views of Rainbow Falls, Copperas Rocks, and an Ice Mine. After visiting the natural wonders of the park, spend some time hiking, biking, or picnicking. The state park also allows camping, with cabins available for rent. Visit Trough Creek State Park at 16362 Little Valley Rd, James Creek, PA, 16657.

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5. Poe Valley State Park – Coburn
Poe Valley State Park, 136 Poe Valley Rd, Penn Township, PA 176832, USA
Trip Advisor/Mary B.
Surrounded by the majestic Bald Eagle State Forest, Poe Valley State Park sprawls across 620 picture-perfect acres. Spend the day lounging on the sandy beach that leads into the 25-acre Poe Lake. Or, boat, fish, or explore the three miles of hiking trails. Poe Valley State Park is located at 136 Poe Valley Rd., Penn Township, PA, 176832.
6. Sizerville State Park – Emporium
Sizerville State Park, 199 E Cowley Run Rd, Emporium, PA 15834, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Tucked in Cameron and Potter Counties and surrounded by Elk State Forest, Sizerville State Park packs a mighty punch in its 386 acres. Hit one of the hiking trails that span a total of five miles. Or, go swimming in the pool or the wading pool. Other popular activities include wildlife watching, picnicking, and camping. Sizerville State Park is located at 199 E. Cowley Run Rd., Emporium, PA, 15834.
7. Greenwood Furnace State Park – Huntingdon
Greenwood Furnace State Park, 15795 Greenwood Rd, Huntingdon, PA 16652, USA
Trip Advisor/144blaked
Cozy pretty much defines the 423-acre Greenwood Furnace State Park. But, you'll still find tons to do. Sunbathe on the 300-foot sandy beach that overlooks the lake then take a break for a picnic. Or, go hiking, kayaking, or wildlife watching. Greenwood Furnace State Park is located at 5795 Greenwood Rd., Huntingdon, PA, 16652.
8. Locust Lake State Park – Barnesville
Locust Lake State Park Campground, Locust Lake Rd, Barnesville, PA 18214, USA
Facebook/Locust Lake State Park
On the prowl for a gorgeous spot to go camping? Then, plan a trip to Locust Lake State Park. The state park offers scenic camping with views of the mountains and forested areas. Or, if you're up for a day trip, wile the hours away hiking, biking, or boating. Relax on the sandy beach before jumping into the water for a cooling swim. Locust Lake State Park is located at 220 Locust Lake Rd., Barnesville, PA, 18214.

Which of these lesser-known parks in Pennsylvania is your favorite to visit? Join the conversation in the comments, and let us know! Then, click here to read about an absolutely spectacular trail in Salt Springs State Park that leads to two waterfalls.

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More to Explore

State Parks to Visit in Pennsylvania

Sarah M. | January 26, 2022

What are the most popular state parks to visit in Pennsylvania?

If you don't mind crowds, Presque Isle State Park is a perennial favorite in the Keystone State. Home to Pennsylvania's one and only seashore, this 3,200-acre Pennsylvania state park borders Lake Erie, and is absolutely magnificent. It's also everyone's favorite; in 2019, it logged the highest attendance rate of any state park in Pennsylvania with 3,719,182 visitors! Why do we all love this Pennsylvania park so much? Well, let us count the ways! Presque Isle State Park boasts more than a dozen stunning, pristine sand beaches, drawing beach lovers from all over Pennsylvania. This park also boasts the only "surf swimming" in the state, and the beaches offer something for everyone, whether you're craving relative quiet or you want to be in the middle of all of the action. But wait... there's more! Waterworks Beach (Beach #7) and Pettinato Beach (Beach #8) are both ADA-accessible and offer a full menu of amenities, including ramps. You can also get a beach wheelchair from the Public Safety Building. Beautiful, accessible, and rife with opportunities for fun outdoor recreation, it's no wonder Presque Isle State Park is the most popular state park to visit in Pennsylvania!

What are the best Pennsylvania state parks for water recreation?

Spending time on or near the water, especially a lake, is never difficult when we live in the Keystone State. After all, our home state has more than 2,500 natural and human-made lakes! So water recreation is big here in PA. In addition to the superlative superstar that is Presque Isle State Park, Beltzville Lake in Pennsylvania is another amazing spot for water lovers. This hidden gem boasts some of the bluest water in the state, and all sorts of opportunities are available for adventure seekers at this 949-acres oasis. In addition to amazing swimming, boating and waterskiing are particularly popular on Beltzville Lake. You can also rent a kayak or a paddleboat during the warmer months to explore the expansive lake. But it's not *all* water-bound run here... if you prefer sticking to land, you’ll find more than 15 miles of hiking trails, some with spectacular lake views. Read more about this amazing state park in Pennsylvania in this article.

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