DCNR Announces State Park Campgrounds Will Be Open For Start Of Trout Season

On March 25, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn encouraged anglers to consider using state park campsites for overnight fishing trips as trout season approaches. 

A total of 43 campgrounds throughout the state will provide camping for the April 2 opener.

“As trout season nears, it is important that the public is aware of the wonderful opportunities for fishing and camping at our state parks,” Dunn said. “We are proud to support outdoor recreation efforts on public lands and look forward to seeing a great turnout this year as people continue to turn to the outdoors for their health and wellbeing.”

DCNR has opened additional campsites to accommodate the trout season to help expand the outdoor experience. 

There are 86,000 miles of rivers and streams, and thousands of lakes and ponds in Pennsylvania. Much of this abundant freshwater wealth is found within our state parks and state forests – 101 state parks and 20 state forests permit fishing with the proper fishing license.

“Whether you’re a lifelong angler or discovering the sport of fishing for the first time this trout season, lakes and streams located within state parks are a great place to start,” said Tim Schaeffer, executive director of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC).  “Camping and fishing make the perfect combination for families looking for adventure and convenience as they make lasting memories on the water.”

Campsites at state parks can be reserved online on a first-come, first-served basis or by calling 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM, except on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

State Parks With Trout Fishing And Camping

Click Here for a list of state parks that accommodate trout fishing with campsite availability.

State Parks With Free Fishing Tackle To Loan

Through a partnership with the Fish and Boat Commission, the American Sportfishing Association, and DCNR, the public can borrow fishing rods, reels, and an equipped tackle box to try fishing while at the certain parks. 

Whether you are giving fishing a try for the first time, or returning to a childhood activity, Click Here for a list of state parks that provide free tackle for loan.

  For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit DCNR’s website, Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the Good Natured DCNR Blog,  Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.

(Photo: Fishing at Yellow Creek State Park, Indiana County.)

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[Posted: March 25, 2022]  PA Environment Digest