Pocono Nature

Hickory Run State Park

Wander through ancient boulder fields and hike through lush forest trails. Hickory Run State Park is a stunning 15,000-acre natural escape in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. Known for its beautiful hiking trails, crystal-clear streams, and peaceful woodlands, the park offers something for every outdoor lover. One of its most unique features is Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark, where visitors can explore an ancient stretch of weathered rocks unlike anything else in the region.

Guests can enjoy over 40 miles of trails, including easy scenic walks and more adventurous routes leading to waterfalls, overlooks, and quiet forest paths. The park is also popular for fishing, wildlife watching, swimming at Sand Spring Lake, and winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for reconnecting with nature, Hickory Run State Park is an unforgettable destination just a short drive from local shops, restaurants, and attractions in the Poconos.

Beltzville State Park

Hike, swim, picnic, and kayak in calm waters surrounded by rolling hills. Beltzville State Park is a scenic destination in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, offering a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Visitors can hike along miles of well-maintained trails, explore the lake by kayak or canoe, and enjoy swimming and fishing in the crystal-clear waters fed by Pohopoco Creek—a prime spot for trout anglers. The park’s picnic areas and open spaces offer a relaxing setting for family gatherings, barbecues, or quiet afternoons amid rolling hills and forested landscapes.

The park's history adds an intriguing layer to its charm. The construction of the dam and the creation of the lake necessitated the relocation of the historic “Buck” (or “Harrity”) covered bridge, leading to the evacuation of Big Creek Valley and the preservation of a local heritage site. Whether you’re seeking an active day on the water, a peaceful hike through the woods, or simply a picturesque spot to unwind, Beltzville State Park offers something for every visitor.

Relax on sandy shores, hike, sightsee, or explore nearby picnic spots. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning natural destination straddling the border of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, offering over 70,000 acres of forests, rivers, and scenic vistas. Visitors can hike miles of trails that wind through lush woodlands, along the Delaware River, and up to panoramic overlooks with breathtaking views of the Water Gap itself. The area is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing on calm river sections, as well as fishing, wildlife watching, and photography. Waterfalls like Raymondskill and Dingmans Falls provide beautiful spots to explore and capture memorable moments, while picnic areas along the river offer a peaceful place to relax. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a mix of both, the Delaware Water Gap provides a spectacular escape into nature.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Hickory Run State Park

• Explore Boulder Field – A one-of-a-kind National Natural Landmark with acres of ancient boulders.

• Hike 40+ miles of trails – From easy scenic walks to more challenging routes through forests and along streams.

• Visit Hawk Falls – A popular trail leading to a beautiful waterfall and natural swimming spots nearby.

• Swim at Sand Spring Lake – Seasonal swimming beach with picnic areas.

• Fish in trout-stocked streams – Great for beginners and avid anglers alike.

• Picnic in shaded groves – Dozens of peaceful picnic areas throughout the park.

• Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other wildlife in the Poconos.

• Mountain biking – Select trails provide excellent terrain for riding.

• Winter activities – Enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and quiet snowy trails.

• Photography – Waterfalls, forests, wildlife, and Boulder Field offer incredible photo opportunities.

Beltzville State Park

• Boating: Beltzville Lake is a popular destination for boating, offering activities such as motorboating, water skiing, and paddling in canoes or kayaks.

• Fishing: The lake offers year-round fishing opportunities for various species, including trout, bass, walleye, and perch.

• Swimming: A sandy beach area is open from late May to mid-September, with restrooms and showers nearby.

• Hiking: Beltzville State Park offers 15 miles of trails, ranging from easy to moderately challenging, including the Sawmill Trail, which highlights historical sites such as a gristmill raceway and a slate quarry.

• Picnicking: Picnic areas, including pavilions, are available for day use.

• Other Activities: The park also offers opportunities for hunting in designated areas and during established seasons, as well as winter activities like ice fishing, ice boating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing when conditions are safe

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

• Kayaking, Canoeing & Tubing
  Calm, clear sections of the Delaware make it ideal for paddling or relaxing on a tube during warm months.

• Swimming
  Enjoy designated river swimming spots with beautiful mountain views.

• Scenic Hiking Trails
  Explore miles of trails featuring waterfalls, forest paths, river overlooks, and wildlife. Popular routes include Dingmans Falls, Raymondskill Falls, and the McDade Trail.

• Biking the McDade Trail
  A mostly flat, multi-use trail perfect for biking through forests, meadows, and historic areas.

• Waterfall Sightseeing
  Visit some of Pennsylvania’s tallest and most picturesque waterfalls, including Raymondskill and Dingmans Falls.

• Fishing
  The Delaware River is known for bass, shad, trout, and peaceful shoreline fishing spots.

• Wildlife Watching
  Keep an eye out for deer, eagles, hawks, and river birds throughout the area.

• Picnicking & Relaxation
  Plenty of scenic riverside areas are available for picnics and quiet time outdoors.

• Historic Sites
  Explore preserved villages, old farmsteads, and historic structures along the river.

• Photography
  From waterfalls to sunsets over the water, the park is full of postcard-worthy views.

Lehigh Gorge State Park

Lehigh Gorge State Park is a spectacular 6,100-acre natural area in eastern Pennsylvania, spanning parts of Luzerne and Carbon counties. The park follows the dramatic canyon carved by the Lehigh River from the Francis E. Walter Dam in the north down to the historic town of Jim Thorpe in the south

• Scenic Gorge: Steep rock walls rise from the river, thick vegetation blankets the slopes, and multiple waterfalls, rocky outcroppings, and rugged terrain define the area.

• Trails & Rail-Trail History: The park includes over 20 miles of the Lehigh Gorge Trail — a rail-trail built on abandoned railroad grade along the river, now part of the longer Delaware & Lehigh Trail corridor.

• Outdoor Recreation: You’ll find hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, fishing, sightseeing, and even winter activities like cross-country skiing or snowmobiling in certain sections.

  • Bike the Trail: Rent a bike or arrange a shuttle to ride the downhill stretch from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, enjoying gorge views.

  • Raft or Kayak the River: The river flows through the gorge and provides exciting rapids and scenic boater runs. For example, guided outfitters operate whitewater rafting here.

  • Hike & Waterfalls: Explore side trails to waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls, or take in overlooks within the gorge

FAQs

Where to hike?

Head North on 534 to Hickory Run State Park for scenic trails and unique boulder fields.

Can I swim here?

Yes, Beltzville Lake offers safe swimming areas perfect for a summer day. Hickory Run State Park also has a small beach.

What wildlife might I see?

Keep an eye out for deer, birds, snakes, and occasionally black bears in the Pocono Mountain region.

Is there parking available?

Yes, these parks have designated parking lots near main entrances.

What should I bring for a day trip?

Bring water, snacks, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the views.

Contact Us

Have questions? Reach out anytime!

Hiking through Hickory Run felt like stepping into a peaceful, untouched world.

Amy J.

★★★★★