Parks & Recreation Areas
Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors Region is where adventure begins. Home to breathtaking state parks, expansive state forests, scenic recreation areas, and Pennsylvania’s only national forest, this spectacular region offers thousands of acres of public lands waiting to be explored. From towering old-growth forests and scenic overlooks to peaceful lakes, clear flowing streams, and abundant wildlife, every season brings a new reason to get outside here.
Whether you’re hiking through Cook Forest’s Forest Cathedral, paddling the Clarion or Allegheny Rivers, spotting elk in their natural habitat, mountain biking the region’s growing trail network, exploring scenic backroads, fishing world-class trout streams, or camping beneath some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States, you’ll find endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.
The region also offers miles of trails for horseback riding, ATV riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, gravel cycling, wildlife watching, and geocaching, making Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors Region a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts of every age and ability. From peaceful nature walks to backcountry adventures, you’ll discover that some of Pennsylvania’s greatest treasures are found right here, where wild places, fresh air, and authentic outdoor experiences are never far away.
Come explore Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors Region and discover why so many visitors return season after season to experience the beauty, recreation, and adventure found throughout our parks, forests, and recreation areas in Cameron, Elk, and Forest Counties.
190,031 acres in Elk, Cameron, and three other counties. Named "Moss-hanne" or "moose stream." from Native-American descriptions of the waterway that runs throught it.
Stone walkway featuring 600-plus granite plaques honoring local veterans, a Civil War monument, a special "Veterans' Walkway" and "Citizens' Walkway" informational kiosk, and antique gristmills.
The Borough of Ridgway works tirelessly to provide various recreational opportunities for our residents and visitors alike. All new playground equipment and restroom facility.
968-acre with old-fashioned charm and character, scenic lake, rustic cabins, quaint campground. and unbounded forests make this an ideal spot for a relaxing day.
Accessible via Pigeon Run Falls Trail, which is good for all skill levels, near Marienville in the Allegheny National Forest.
276-acre stand of old and very large white pine in Elk State Forest with the interpretative Pine Tree Trail and Hicks Run Camping Area.
Nearly 50,000 acres. Many winding turns along a beautiful mountain stream make Wykoff Run Road a favorite for motorcyclists. Beaver Run Dam's pond and wetlands and Hoover Farm's fields are wildlife viewing areas.
Picnic pavilion rentals, baseball and softball fields, playgrounds, volley ball courts, Frisbee golf, swimming, fishing, and handicap-accessible observation deck. New mountain bike trail.
Enjoy a commanding view of the Clarion River Valley from the 87.5-foot fire tower. See "Indian mills," unnatural indentations in stones used to grind grains.
A versatile 2.2-acre space featuring an adult fitness court, rentable event areas, restrooms, and convenient access to the city parking garage, adjacent to Cobblestone Inn.
