Philadelphia, PA - Suppose you are planning to visit the Pennsylvania countryside for a weekend getaway. In that case, there are several State Parks Near Philadelphia to explore. From Ridley Creek State Park in Media to Fort Washington State Park in Fort Washington, PA, there are many options to choose from. You can explore this area from deep forests and misty mountains without traveling far from the city.
State Parks Near Philadelphia to Explore
Here are some of the best parks near Philadelphia that you can visit. They are all well worth a visit.
Ridley Creek State Park in Media, PA
Suppose you are looking for a natural oasis where you can enjoy scenic beauty, history, and wildlife. In that case, you should check out Ridley Creek State Park in Media, PA. Located just 16 miles from the city of Philadelphia, Ridley Creek State Park offers over 2,600 acres of woodlands and meadows. The park features a 5-mile paved multi-use trail that is perfect for biking, walking, and cross-country skiing. Though the park is close to the city, it still feels quite remote.
A recent project from Brandywine University students grew out of a geoscience course taught by Professor Laura Guertin. Students developed a podcast that educated the public about tree biodiversity and collaborated with the park education officer and the local Friends of Ridley Creek State Park. In 2009, the students published a report detailing their work. They also created a virtual tour of the park's tree biodiversity using Google Earth during this process.
Fort Washington State Park in Fort Washington, PA
When you're looking for something to do near Philadelphia, the most exciting options are probably state parks. These are less than an hour away and will appeal to nature lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you want to hike or cycle, kayak or take a boat tour, you'll find a variety of activities in state parks near Philadelphia. Read on to find out more about these state parks and how you can enjoy them in a short amount of time.
If you're interested in history, you'll find Fort Wharton State Historic Park here. This 493-acre historic fort was built during the Philadelphia campaign of the American Revolution. After the Battle of Germantown, the soldiers from the regiment moved to Valley Forge. The park's interior is still visible today, and you can tour its many historical structures. There's also a disc golf course here, and you can visit a historic home adjacent to the park.
Evansburg State Park in Collegeville PA
If you are in the mood for a day outdoors, consider visiting the 3,349-acre Evansburg State Park. This Pennsylvania park is located in Lower Providence, Salford, Skippack, Towamencin, and Worcester Townships. The park offers visitors a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, old fields, and farmland. If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind after a long day at work or school, you'll find the perfect setting in this park.
This state park is ADA-accessible and has two pavilions that hold 200 people. You can reserve the Pavilions up to 11 months in advance, but you can walk in for free on any day. The park has many types of wildlife and is forested with northern and southern hardwoods. Visitors can enjoy watching the animals in their natural habitat in the early mornings and late evenings.
Nockamixon State Park in Quakertown, PA
Nockamixon State Park is located in northern Bucks County. It is one of the state parks in southeastern Pennsylvania. Most people visit in the summer months. It is also a great place to explore if you love nature. Visitors will find plenty to do at this state park, from hiking trails to swimming pools. In addition to being a state park, Nockamixon offers other recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, and biking.
Nockamixon State Park is a family-friendly park. Visitors should refrain from using tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping. Visitors should follow state health protocols to help keep the park clean and free of illnesses. When entering the park, they should wear masks and avoid touching their face and eyes. Fishing and boating are permitted 24 hours a day in designated areas. Some parts of the park are closed during the winter season.
Washington's Crossing Historical Park in Titusville
If you're looking for state parks near Philadelphia, consider visiting Washington Crossing State Park, a 3,575-acre park in New Jersey. This park is located in Titusville and Washington Crossing sections of Hopewell Township, Mercer County, north of Trenton along the Delaware River. The park is part of the historic Washington Crossing area, a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
Visit Washington's Crossing National Historical Park, and take in the beautiful gardens and landscape. You can explore a stone barn built in the late 1770s. The stone barn has restrooms, and you can learn about the region's history. You can also check out the museum and nature center, which have native wildlife. General Washington's troops probably marched along this lane on their way to Trenton.
Benjamin Rush State Park in Philadelphia, PA
If you're planning to go on a trip to the city of brotherly love, you may want to stop by Benjamin Rush State Park in Philadelphia. This 275-acre state park is located in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. It's primarily undeveloped and boasts some community gardens.
The park is home to the largest community garden in the world, a 3.5-mile hiking trail, and an RC airplane field. You'll find plenty of outdoor activities at Benjamin Rush State Park, including fishing and birding. And while you're there, you'll find a community garden with space for rent! With so much to do, you're sure to have a great time exploring this park.
French Creek State Park in Elverson, PA
French Creek State Park is a 7,977-acre state park in Chester County, Pennsylvania. It spans parts of Chester County and the neighboring counties of Berks and Warwick. The park is named after French Creek, which runs through the park. You can go on hikes, mountain bike rides, and other recreational activities in the park. Here are a few fun facts about French Creek State Park.
The park is surrounded by the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which once served as a source of iron for American colonies. The park was once deforested to produce charcoal for the iron furnace. Today, the park consists of 7,730 acres of woodlands, lakes, and fields. In addition to the historical site, the park is home to several wildlife species. This park has been designated an Important Bird and Mammal Area.
Alapocas Run State Park in Wilmington DE
If you're looking for a scenic spot near Philadelphia, you've come to the right place. If you're planning a trip to the area, one of the most popular parks is Alapocas Run State. This park is located near Wilmington, Delaware, on Brandywine Creek and a tributary is known as the Alapocas Run. It's open all year long and is approximately 415 acres in size. This four-star state park has plenty to offer visitors, and it's worth taking some time to explore this gem.
Alapocas Run State Park features a lush getaway in Wilmington. It offers trails connecting to the Northern Delaware Greenway, including one with a rock climbing area. The park has a picnic area and is a great place for families to spend an afternoon. Alapocas Run State Park includes a rock-climbing wall and a public golf course.
Marsh Creek State Park in Downingtown, PA
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania constructed and operated several recreational facilities at Marsh Creek State Park. However, it does not have overnight camping facilities. Fortunately, private campgrounds on PA are 282 a mile away, and French Creek State Park is 20 miles north, offering year-round camping. You can camp in the park's designated RV campsites or bring your own and enjoy all of its amenities.
A popular attraction in Marsh Creek State Park is the Hope Springs Farm, where children and adults can learn to ride horses. Trail rides are available during weekends from April through October, and you can take a trail ride on the lake in winter. If you'd rather spend the day outdoors, cross-country skiing and sledding trails and ice skating on the lake. You can also attend outdoor educational programs and join the park's fishing and boating club.
