Mother Nature blessed us with the mighty Susquehanna – a river as rich in history as it is in breathtaking scenery, spectacular wildlife and soul restoring recreation. From the earliest Native Americans, to the American Revolution, to the Civil War, to the Industrial Revolution, so much of America can be traced to this waterway. And to our natural wonders that emanate from its banks in all directions.

Alexander King Nature Preserve
Explore this 24-acre woodland located in Little Britain Township on a rise overlooking Octorara Creek. It features outcroppings of green serpentine rock, a variety of indigenous flora and trees. There are no established trails, but an old dirt road runs through the property. There is a geocache.

Kirkwood, PA 17536
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Apollo County Park
Hike, fish or just study the beauty of the earth at the first public facility to honor the men who walked on the moon.

Brogue, PA 17309
tel: 717-840-7440
 
Bellaire Woods Nature Preserve
This 38.4-acre gently sloping, mostly open mature woodland located in Mount Joy Township features an abundance of wild flower species and tall indigenous trees. Huge boulders on the lower end create picturesque vistas, microclimates for plants, and animal refuges. A well-worn cobbly path runs through the property. There is a geocache.

Elizabethtown, PA 17022
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Bell's Run Nature Preserve
This is a 10-acre woodland of poplar, black birch, red maple and black walnut trees located in Colerain Township, nestled between the Amish farms of the Octorara Creek Watershed. Bell’s Run meanders through the lowland, creating an excellent flora and fauna habitat. An old road is part of a loop-hiking trail through the property. There is a geocache.

Kirkwood, PA 17536
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Boyer Nature Preserve
A 9.6-acre forest along the Little Conestoga Creek in Manor Township is home to a variety of beautiful songbirds that can be observed throughout the hillside of mature trees. A small, wandering loop-hiking trail through the hillside offers a stunning view of the creek, especially in winter.

Washington Boro, PA 17582
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Chickies Rock County Park
The views and vistas from atop Chickie’s Rock are nothing short of breathtaking. Get back to nature at this 422-acre natural wonder, rich in history and intriguing geological formations. Play areas, pavilions, trails and boat launch into the Susquehanna River also make the park rich in family fun.

Marietta, PA 17547
tel: 717-299-8215
 
Codorus State Park
Codorus State Park, located just three miles southeast of Hanover, York County, is a rustic wilderness consisting of 3,329 acres.

1066 Blooming Grove Road
Hanover, PA 17331
tel: 717-637-2816
 
Conewago Trail
5.5 miles of scenic trail along the Conewago Creek guides you through scenic Lancaster County farmland and natural areas. Hike, bike, jog, horseback ride or cross country ski clear up to the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, where you can do it all some more.

tel: 717-299-8215
 
D. F. Buchmiller Park
Take a moment to relax and enjoy the outdoors at this 79-acre park, just minutes from Downtown Lancaster.

Lancaster, PA
tel: (717) 299-8215
 
Ferncliff Wildflower & Wildlife Preserve
This Drumore Township property is the Barnes Run stream corridor that lies between mature wooded slopes and spectacular rock outcroppings. It features a healthy diversity of wildflowers and other plants, as well as a wide variety of mature hardwood trees. A trail meanders along Barnes Run and an old road. There are two geocaches.

Washington Boro, PA 17518
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Fishing Creek Nature Preserve
167 acres of mature forest in Drumore Township features the Fishing Creek stream corridor, a DEP-designated high-quality cold water fishery with one of the only remaining natural wild trout populations in Lancaster County. A number of trails and a dirt road run through the preserve making for wonderful nature walks. There is a geocache.

Washinton Boro, PA 17518
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Gifford Pinchot State Park
Campsites, cabins, a relaxing beach, picnicking and the scenic 840-acre Pinchot Lake provide a wide variety of family fun and adventure.

2200 Rosstown Road
Lewisberry, PA 17339
tel: 717-432-5011
 
Greider's Run Nature Preserve
Located in Lancaster Township, this preserve is a small riparian buffer zone featuring some early successional trees and shrubs visible from Willow Street Pike. There is no hiking trail on the property.

Willow Street, PA 17584
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Heritage Rail Trail County Park
Hike, bike, jog or horseback ride along 21 miles of York County railroad history and natural beauty.

tel: 717-840-7440
 
Holly Pointe Conservation Area
A slice of nature in Lancaster City, this 3.94-acre conservation area serves as a buffer between Red Maple Road and the Conestoga River. An “avenue” of stately sycamores adorns the area and a trail extension from the Conestoga Gardens parallels the River to Holly Pointe.

Lancaster, PA 17602
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Holtwood Environmental Preserve
Trek to the Lower Susquehanna River for camping, boating, fishing or just nature loving. 5,000 acres in York and Lancaster Counties feature picturesque Lake Aldred, the unique Lock 12 Historic Area and the impressive Holtwood hydroelectric plant.

Holtwood, PA
tel: 1-800-354-8383
 
Homewood Nature Preserve
Located in Paradise Township, this 39.61-acre preserve is currently the only Lancaster County Conservancy property in this section of the county. It consists of former cropland, early successional forest and mature forest. Eshelman Run borders the eastern edge. Plans are underway to reforest an existing field and create wildflower meadows in two others. There is a loop trail.

Keneagy Hill Road and Georgetown Road
Soundersburg, PA 17572
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Indian Steps Museum
Centuries of Native American culture are celebrated in a fascinating display of 10,000 artifacts imbedded in the walls of the museum. The natural “steps” travel down the bank and into the Susquehanna River.

205 Indian Steps
Airville, PA 17302
tel: 717-862-3948
 
John Rudy County Park
This sports lover’s paradise has it all – facilities for softball, soccer and more, hiking, biking and cross country, picnicking…even an observatory to study the stars.

400 Munids Race Road
York, PA 17402
tel: 717-840-7440
 
Kelly's Run Nature Preserve
A ravine and a large tributary of Kelly’s Run create this beautiful hollow in Martic Township, which features one of Lancaster County’s few remaining old-growth forests. Springtime brings an abundance of wildflowers. PPL Kelly’s Run hiking trail is on the southern border, connecting to a Conservancy Trail that follows the stream northward.

Holtwood, PA 17532
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Lancaster County Central Park
544 scenic acres make up the “hub” of the County Park system. Enjoy the County Pool, Garden of Five Senses, skatepark, basketball courts, ball fields, tennis courts, garden plots, playgrounds, pavilions, Environmental Library, Environmental Center, trails and more.

Lancaster, PA
tel: 717-299-8215
 
Lancaster County Conservancy
Break out your gear for hiking, hunting, fishing, bird watching, educational activities – most any kind of outdoor adventure – in the natural lands and wide open spaces of Lancaster County, lovingly preserved by the Conservancy for your enjoyment.

117 South West End Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17608
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Lancaster Junction Trail
Break out your gear for hiking, hunting, fishing, bird watching, educational activities – most any kind of outdoor adventure – in the natural lands and wide open spaces of Lancaster County, lovingly preserved by the Conservancy for your enjoyment.

Manheim, PA 17545
tel: 717-299-8215
 
Mason-Dixon Trail System
Hike part or all of this 190-mile trail that connects Appalacian Trail with the Brandywine Trail.

tel:
 
Money Rocks County Park
Lancaster County’s Welsh Mountains is the scenic setting for the 356-acre Money Rocks County Park. Explore the many trails and other natural areas in woodlands that feature black birch trees.

1000 Narvon Road
Narvon, PA 17555
tel: 717-299-8215
 
P. Joseph Raab County Park
Wander through the land that was once the home of the York Iron Company. It’s the most well-preserved of York County’s 170 mines.

Hoff Road
Seven Valleys, PA 17360
tel: 717-840-7440
 
Rannels-Kettle Run Nature Preserve
Located near the Lancaster County/Lebanon County line, this preserve features a mature hardwood forest and miles of Kettle Run stream corridor. There is an elevation change of nearly 500 feet. Several trails provide excellent hiking. There is a geocache.

Manheim, PA 17545
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Ray's Woods Nature Preserve
Located in Providence Township, this is a 52.7-acre preserve featuring mature forest, early successional forest and the stream corridor for a tributary of Trout Run. It includes trails that let you explore this rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. There is a geocache.

New Providence, PA 17560
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Reed Run Nature Preserve
Located in Martic Township, this is a 148.72-acre preserve of former cropland, early successional forest and mature forest. Two creeks flow through the property – Reed Run and Brubaker Run – both emptying into the Susquehanna River.

Pequea, PA 17565
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Richard M. Nixon County Park
Named for our 37th President, Nixon Park is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors, featuring nature trails and a renowned Environmental Education Center.

Nixon Drive
York, PA 17403
tel: 717-428-1961
 
Rock Springs Serpentine Barrens
Located in Fulton Township, this is a prime example of a serpentine barren. This unique ecosystem with its nutrient-poor soil promotes the growth of rare serpentine grasses and over 100 species of native wildflowers. A wandering loop trail can be found on the north side of the property.

tel: 717-392-7891
 
Rocky Ridge County Park
Explore York’s first county park, a scenic spot for all sorts of activities and home to the Holiday spectacular, “Christmas Magic – A Celebration of Lights.”

4400 Druck Valley Road
Hellam, PA 17406
tel: 717840-7440
 
Samuel S. Haldeman Mansion
1782 Federal-style home of Lancaster County scientist, author, naturalist, Samuel Haldeman, the mansion is a perfect place to learn about early history and crafts.

230 Locust Grove Road
Bainbridge, PA 17502
tel: 717-426-1183
 
Samuel S. Lewis State Park
Soak in one of the most spectacular views of the Susquehanna River Valley from atop 885-foot Mt. Pisgah, the pinnacle of this 85-acre tribute to the great outdoors.

Mt. Pisgah Road and Cool Creek Road
Wrightsville, PA 17368
tel: 717-432-5011
 
Shank’s Mare Outfitter
An 1890's era general store building located on the banks of the scenic Susquehanna River. This unique structure houses a collection of shops, activities, and people dedicated to the idea that we all need to go play outside!!

2092 Long Level Rd.
Wrightsville, PA 17368
tel: 1-877-554-5080 or 717-252-1616
 
Speedwell Forge County Park
There’s a 415-acre undeveloped paradise running along Hammer Creek where you can explore the diverse beauty of nature. Hike the trail to find a wide variety of natural habitats and extraordinary flora and fauna.

Lititz, PA 17543
tel: 717-299-8215
 
Spring Valley County Park
Multi-use trails, hunting, fishing, animal activity areas and more are at this park near the site of the famous Hex murders of the 1920s.

Line Road and Park Road
Glen Rock, PA 17327
tel: 717-840-7440
 
Steinman Run Nature Preserve
Located in Martic Township, this is 264.22 acres of mature forest featuring the stream corridors for Steinman Run and a tributary of Trout Run. A number of large and smaller trails run through the property making the preserve an ideal hiking spot. There is a geocache.

Pequea, PA 17565
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Susquehanna Heritage Park - Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area
See where history meets the future and outdoor recreation joins nature's tranquil beauty.

Trinity Church Road and Hilt Road
Wrightsville, PA 17368
tel:
 
Susquehannock State Park
Enjoy an incredible view of the Susquehanna River while exploring the history of the Susquehannocks from this 224 acre State Park, which also offers a variety of recreational activities year round.

1880 Park Drive
Drumore, PA 17518
tel: 717-432-5011
 
The North Museum of Natural History & Science
Lose yourself in natural history and science through a wonderful collection of live animals, minerals, plus Central Pennsylvania’s largest planetarium.

400 College Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17603
tel: 717-291-3941
 
Theodore A. Parker Natural Area
Head south to Southern Lancaster County where you’ll find pristine Stewart Run, the centerpiece of Theodore A. Parker Natural Area. Trails throughout this beautiful, unspoiled area let you explore an impressive array of wildlife and plant life.

Drumore, PA 17518
tel: 717-299-8215
 
Trout Run Nature Preserve
Located in Martic Township, Trout Run is 123.59 acres comprised of mature forest and the Trout Run stream corridor. Springtime brings a plethora of blooming wildflowers. This property is known for being a nesting area for the Louisiana water thrush. Two long trails are featured. There is a geocache.

Pequea, PA 17565
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve
Located in Martic Township, Tucquan Glen is a 338.15-acre tract containing a Susquehanna River tributary. Part beautiful and peaceful, part wild and rugged, the glen is one of the most pristine and scenic of the seven ravines that open into the Susquehanna.

800 River Road
Holtwood, PA 17532
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Turkey Hill Trail
This Manor Township trail features many spectacular vistas of the Susquehanna River, as well as forests with a variety of mature hardwoods. The world’s largest pawpaw patch above the 39th latitude is just a 10-minute hike to the north. There is a wide variety of birds and fauna, plus an abundance of sassafras, oaks and maple, making for spectacular fall foliage hiking.

Conestoga, PA 17516
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Upper Hopewell Nature Preserve
This triangle-shaped riparian buffer zone is close to Rammels-Kettle Run Nature Preserve and features the Horseshoe trail which follows the run and the sanctuary’s western border. Dense vegetation of early successional trees and shrubs line the banks of Hammer Creek, providing an excellent habitat for wildlife and many invasive plants. No hunting or fishing.

Newmanstown, PA 17073
tel: 717-392-7891
 
VISITOR INFO - Amish Mennonite Information Center of Morgantown
Information on the Amish and Mennonite cultures.

2667 West Main Street
Morgantown, PA 19543
tel: 610-286-9870
 
VISITOR INFO - Downtown Visitors Information Center
Information about visiting and staying in Lancaster County.

1-3 W. King Street
Lancaster, PA 17603
tel: 717-735-0823
 
VISITOR INFO - Downtown York Visitors Information Center
Information about visiting and staying in York County.

149 W. Market Street
York, PA 17401
tel: 717-852-9675
 
VISITOR INFO - Ephrata Area Chamber of Commerce
The Ephrata Information Center is housed in the Chamber of Commerce. It offers information on Northern Lancaster County.

77 Park Avenue,Suite1
Ephrata, PA 17522
tel: 717-738-9010
 
VISITOR INFO - Hanover Visitors Information Center
Provides information about touring and lodging in Hanover.

11 York Street
Hanover, PA 17331
tel: 717- 633-1663
 
VISITOR INFO - I-83 North Welcome Center
Rest stop and visitors information.

Interstate 83 Northbound
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
tel: (717) 235-6076
 
VISITOR INFO - Lititz Springs Park Welcome Center
Welcomes visitors to Lititz and offers information on the history of the Reading and Columbia railroad and the station.

18 North Broad Street
Lititz, PA 17543
tel: 717-626-8981
 
VISITOR INFO - Mt. Joy Chamber of Commerce.
Promotes businesses and organizations in the Mount Joy area. The Chamber of Commerce building hosts a visitors center.

15 Marietta Avenue
Mount Joy, PA 17552
tel: 717-653-0773
 
VISITOR INFO - Pennsylvania Dutch Convention and Visitors Bureau
Planning a visit to Lancaster County? Receive helpful tourism and lodging information to assist you as you discover the sights, sounds, tastes, adventures and excitement of PA Dutch Country!

501 Greenfield Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
tel: 1-800-PA-DUTCH
 
VISITOR INFO - Susquehanna Valley Visitors Center
The Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce offers information about western Lancaster County.

445 Linden Street
Columbia, PA 17512
tel: (717) 684-5249
 
VISITOR INFO - The Mennonite Information Center
Highlights information of both the Amish and Mennonite people of Lancaster County. The information center is also the site of a Biblical Tabernacle reproduction.

2209 Millstream Road
Lancaster, PA 17602
tel: 717-299-0954
 
VISITOR INFO - York County Visitors Information Center at Harley Davidson
Information about visiting and staying in York County.

1425 Eden Road
York, PA 17402
tel: 717-852-6006
 
Wallace-Cross Mill
Go on a guided journey through the inner workings of an 1826 mill, lovingly restored to the way it was in its heyday in the 1950's.

15759 Cross Mill Road
Felton, PA 17322
tel: 717-840-7440
 
William H. Kain County Park
Enjoy outdoor activities o’plenty at the first U.S. county park developed in cooperation with a public utility. Lake Redman and Lake Williams are York County public water reservoirs.

York, PA 17403
tel: 717-840-7440
 
Windolph Landing Nature Preserve
This is 7.5 acres of landlocked property bordering the Conestoga River in Lancaster Township. An abundance of Hackberry and other mature hardwood trees make up a secondary succession forest that’s a natural riparian buffer for the river. Springtime covers the steep hillside with wildflowers. There are no hiking trails. There is no hunting. Fishing is permitted.

Lancaster, PA 17602
tel: 717-392-7891
 
Wissler Run Nature Preserve
18 acres of natural beauty lie between Susquehannock State Park and Muddy Run Lake. Several beautiful pools dot the stream in this habitat where a wide variety of flora and fauna thrive. There are no clearly marked hiking trails.

Drumore, PA 17518
tel: 717-392-7891
 
York County Parks
Explore the York County Parks and see "what's next?" as they celebrate 40 years of fun, fitness, learning & history.

400 Mundis Race Road
York, PA 17406
tel: 717-840-7440