Bucktail State Park Natural Area is one of Pennsylvania’s most unique and scenic state parks. Located in Cameron County and extending through portions of Clinton County, the park follows a 75-mile corridor along Pennsylvania Route 120 between Emporium and Lock Haven. Unlike traditional state parks, Bucktail State Park Natural Area is designed to preserve and showcase the remarkable natural beauty of the Sinnemahoning Valley and surrounding mountains.

Established in 1933, the park was named in honor of the famed Bucktail Regiment, a Civil War unit composed largely of woodsmen and hunters from north-central Pennsylvania. Members of the regiment were known for wearing deer tails in their hats, earning them the nickname “Bucktails.” Today, the park serves as a living memorial to their legacy while protecting one of the state’s most impressive natural landscapes.

The park corridor follows Sinnemahoning Creek and its branches, offering visitors breathtaking views of forested mountains, steep ridges, and winding waterways. During autumn, the area becomes especially popular as vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold foliage transform the valley into one of Pennsylvania’s premier destinations for fall leaf peeping and wild elk watching.

Bucktail State Park Natural Area is also recognized for its abundant wildlife. Visitors frequently observe white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and wild elk that have become a symbol of Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Region. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy opportunities for fishing, hunting, wildlife photography, cycling, hiking, and a scenic drive throughout the mountains.

Bucktail State Park Natural Area remains an important destination for nature lovers seeking unspoiled landscapes and a connection to the region’s rich natural and historical heritage. Its combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and history makes it one of Pennsylvania’s most treasured natural areas and a must-see destination in Cameron County.

Find more great places to explore in Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors Region at VisitPAGO.com.