Pennsylvania boasts a rich history, one that’s pretty fascinating to discover. Did you know, for example, that there are remnants of old German POW camps in Pennsylvania that date back to long before World War II? Even better, if you’re up for a bit of walking or hiking, you can explore the remnants of buildings from the camp and learn more from historical markers along the way, too. Take the Camp Michaux self-guided walking tour to unlock the secrets of this fascinating chapter in American history.

Hidden just a few miles from Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Gardners, Camp Michaux boasts a long and storied history that dates back long before World War II.
Flickr/Brian Henderson
Finding the former German POW camp is fairly easy. Plug in these coordinates 40° 02' 16"N -77° 20' 27"W or 40.0379°N -77.3404°W into your GPS to find the parking lot, which sits near the camp’s entrance.
Wikimedia Commons/Jumpmaster1906
The area, where the remnants of the POW camp now sit, got its start as Bunker Hill Farm, a working farm. However, by the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps Camp took over the land.
Flickr/Ted Van Pelt
During World War II, the area became the site of a top secret mission – to hold German and Japanese POWS and to secure information from them about the Axis’ plans against the Allies.
Flickr/Ted Van Pelt

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Officially a Prisoner of War Interrogation Camp, Camp Michaux held more than 7,000 German and just over 150 Japanese prisoners of war.
Wikimedia Commons/Mark Lawson
The POW Interrogation Camp was generally just a stopover for the prisoners, who would later be transferred to other facilities within the United States.
Flickr/Brian Henderson
Fortunately, there's a way to learn even more about this unique site and its place in Pennsylvania history.
Flickr/Brian Henderson
Today, history buffs and those who are just up for an adventure can follow a self-guided walking tour that leads to 37 historical markers and some fascinating ruins of the former POW camp.
The walking trail will lead you to several historical ruins, including a guard tower. The area once held an assortment of buildings -- a hospital, a mess hall, barracks, and a latrine -- although many of those buildings are now rubble or have simply disappeared.
Flickr/Brian Henderson
Carve out at least a few hours for your walking tour, especially if you want to stop and read each of the historical markers.
Wikimedia Commons/Jumpmaster1906

Did you know there were old German POW camps in Pennsylvania, or have you visited? Share your experience in the comments! Then check out these 12 moments in Pennsylvania history everyone born in Pennsylvania will remember.

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Pennsylvania In History

Raymond Goldfield | April 16, 2023

What Are The Oldest Attractions In Pennsylvania? 

  • Hershey is probably the most famous company to come out of Pennsylvania, and the town that made the chocolate company's beginnings has been transformed into a tribute. Today, you'll find a massive amusement park, a ride-through tour of the chocolate factory, a zoo, a botanical garden, and even a tour of the famous founder Milton Hershey's preserved mansion.
  • The Strasburg Railroad has a unique distinction - it's the oldest continuously operating railroad in the United States! Started in 1832 as a short-line railroad connecting an agricultural area to larger railroads, it now operates as a historic railroad giving both regular rides and themed trips for railroad buffs. It even has specialty holiday events where rail riders can meet Santa or the Easter Bunny.
  • The Gettysburg battlefield is probably the most famous spot in all of Pennsylvania, and you can explore it in a whole new way thanks to Gettysbike Tours. This guided bike tour offers several options, including a 7.5-mile family tour and a more ambitious Grand Tour that goes for at least 10 miles. There's even a seven-hour Historian's Tour that goes for over 20 miles. Along the way, you'll see some of the town's most historic sites and learn new secrets.

 

What Are The Most Historic Restaurants In Pennsylvania?

  • McGillin's Old Ale House is located in the heart of Philadelphia, and has been operating since before the civil war kicked off - in 1860. The long history is on full display in the restaurant, and in many ways it still looks mostly the same as it did back then. The food has changed a lot, adding Italian and other local favorites to a hearty menu of pub grub.
  • Dobbin House Tavern in Gettysburg is housed in a building that dates back to 1776, and has been operating as a restaurant and Bed and Breakfast. This is a place that wears its history on its sleeve, serving hearty meals with an old-school touch. The waitstaff is even wearing period costumes, and your table is illuminated by a glowing candle.

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Camp Michaux, Newville, PA 17241, USA