CENTRE COUNTY — Ahead of Memorial Day, members of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and others visited Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County to officially kick off Pennsylvania’s summer outdoor recreation season. With the state’s overwhelming amount of parks, forests and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months, especially here in Centre County.
BALD EAGLE STATE PARK
There is a reason that Bald Eagle State Park was the location of choice to announce the summer outdoor recreation season for the Commonwealth.
This attraction is host to a plethora of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From fishing, boating and swimming in the 1,730-acre lake to hiking and biking the nearby mountain trails, Bald Eagle has a little bit of everything.
Between the wetlands, fields and forests, the wildlife ranges vastly throughout the park. For those wanting to stay overnight, there are two campgrounds on the massive 5,900-acre property.
Black Moshannon State Park has a large property that spans over 3,300 acres, which includes a 250-acre lake, wetlands and forest. The surrounding area of the State Park is the Black Moshannon State Forest, which spans well over 40,000 acres, making the state park a remote and quiet location for all outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
Enjoy boating, swimming and fishing in the Black Moshannon Lake and camping in various areas around the park.
ROTHROCK STATE FOREST
With over 96,000 acres, Rothrock State Forest’s area spans through Huntingdon, Mifflin and Centre counties.
The area contains nearly 300 miles of scenic hiking trails which are perfect for the notorious mountain biking location. Also, enjoy boating, fishing and kayaking in the local waters.
WHIPPLE DAM STATE PARK
This 256-acre state park is a quiet and secluded area for outdoor activities. With a lake and day-use area, park goers will be submerged in the natural world.
The area comes equipped with a lake, which offers a great boating or swimming atmosphere. There are family fishing and guided kayak excursions available as well.
The day-use area is a great spot for a picnic, nature watching or just simply relaxing.
