Through the Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway campaign and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)’s “Still Open. Still Awesome” initiative, Pennsylvania is welcoming residents and visitors alike to explore its 124 state parks, 2.2 million acres of forestland, and more than 7,000 campsites — offering affordable, accessible, and unforgettable outdoor experiences for everyone.
“Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and we want people to know: Pennsylvania’s public lands are open, awesome, and waiting to welcome you,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “From scenic hikes and peaceful lakes to campfires under the stars, there’s something for everyone in our state parks and forests. Governor Shapiro is making strategic investments to ensure these spaces remain enjoyable to all.”
As some federal campgrounds reduce operations due to staffing and budget cuts, Pennsylvania’s state parks experienced a nearly 30 percent increase in campground reservations earlier this spring.
That upward trend has continued as we head into the busy summer months.
Today’s event took place at the newly completed White Pine Camping Loop at Bald Eagle State Park — a $1.9 million state-funded project that added 22 full-service, pet-friendly RV sites to the park’s existing mix of nearly 200 campsites, cottages, yurts, and the popular Nature Inn at Bald Eagle.
Bald Eagle spans 5,900 acres and is home to Foster Joseph Sayers Lake, named in honor of a Pennsylvania native who received the Medal of Honor after being killed in action in World War II.
Secretary Dunn paused for a moment of silence at the lake to recognize those who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.
"We are fortunate to have six beautiful state parks in Centre County, each with its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure,” said Centre County Commissioner Chair Mark Higgins. “Thanks to the help of DCNR, we are able to keep our parks accessible, well-maintained, and ready to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors per year.”
"Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, is where adventure and authenticity come together,” said Happy Valley Adventure Bureau President and CEO Fritz Smith. “With more than 750,000 acres of nearby public lands, six state parks, and renowned recreation areas like Rothrock State Forest and Harvest Fields Community Trails, we offer something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether hiking, biking, fishing, birding, or geocaching on the Happy Valley GeoTour, each experience is a chance to reconnect with nature and rediscover small-town charm. Every trail explored and every overnight stay directly supports the local businesses, hospitality partners, and passionate communities that make Happy Valley a truly unforgettable place to visit — and return to."
This investment at Bald Eagle is part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to modernize Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests, with $120 million in infrastructure improvements completed since January 2023.
The Governor’s 2025-26 proposed budget includes $5 million in new funding to expand and enhance public lands — including the expansion of Lehigh Gorge State Park to include Glen Onoko Falls Trail and the creation of Pennsylvania’s 125th state park at Laurel Caverns in Fayette County, the state’s first subterranean park.
Since day one, Governor Shapiro has made strategic investments to elevate outdoor recreation, transforming it into a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's economy and communities.
These efforts are driving economic growth, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and creating jobs across the Commonwealth.
$19 Billion Industry In PA
In 2023, Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation industry contributed $19 billion to the state’s economy — a 10 percent increase over the previous year — and now represents 2% of the Commonwealth’s gross domestic product.
According to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the industry now supports more than 168,000 jobs that provide $9 billion in wages and salaries to Pennsylvanians.
“Pennsylvania’s public lands are the foundation of the Commonwealth’s $19 billion outdoor recreation industry and central to supporting the 9,000 businesses, and 168,000 jobs in the sector,” said Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner. “We are fortunate to have such great places to play, relax, and maybe even do a little remote work. These spaces are vital not only for our health and wellbeing but for supporting jobs and businesses that power Pennsylvania’s growing outdoor economy.”
Plan Your Great American Getaway
Reserve campsites, cabins, yurts, and pavilions at visitPAParks.com or by calling 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Many parks have weekday availability and discounted non-peak rates.
DCNR relaunched its gift certificate program, available online(opens in a new tab) and at park offices, which can be used for lodging reservations, pavilion rentals, and state-operated retail purchases.
Public lands offer a wide range of outdoor activities spanning from ATV riding to whitewater boating.
Visit DCNR’s website for more information about what to do at state parks and where to go on public lands, including local parks and for scenic views.
DCNR encourages Pennsylvanians to check its Calendar of Events for seasonal programming happening across the state.
As part of National Safe Boating Week, May 17-23, DCNR reminds visitors to follow basic safety tips on the water: always wear a life jacket, never boat under the influence, and check the forecast before heading out.
Visitors should also follow Leave No Trace principles to keep public lands clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.
30th Anniversary
As DCNR marks its 30th anniversary in 2025, the Shapiro Administration remains focused on delivering safe, welcoming, and well-maintained public lands for all. Whether you're exploring a scenic overlook, casting a line into a quiet lake, or spending the night in a state park — Pennsylvania’s parks and forests are ready for your next adventure.
Click Here for the DCNR announcement.
Visit DCNR’s Conservation Education Opportunities webpage for more on programs and opportunities for people of all ages in all regions.
Visit Explore PA Trails and Get Outdoors PA for recreation areas near you.
Visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation’s Events webpage and DCNR’s Calendar of Events for activities happening near you.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit DCNR’s website.
Upcoming Event
May 22-- Virtual. DCNR Conservation & Natural Resources Advisory Council Webinar On Sustaining The State Park, Forest System And Growing PA’s Outdoor Recreation Economy. Noon to 1:00 p.m.
Related Articles This Week:
-- DCNR Kicks Off Summer Outdoor Recreation Season At Bald Eagle State Park In Centre County [PaEN]
-- Susquehanna Greenway Partnership: Health Benefits Of Outdoor Recreation - By Darian Jones, Communications & Outreach AmeriCorps Assistant for the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership [PaEN]
-- North Branch Land Trust Completes 220 Acre Conservation Easement On Huntsville Reservoir In Luzerne County [PaEN]
-- DCNR State Parks Environmental Educator News Blooming With PA Native Species Day; Pollinator Activities; Educator Workshops [PaEN]
-- Save The Date! PA Park & Recreation Professionals Day Is July 18 [PaEN]
-- Allentown Parknership To Build Full -Court Basketball Court At Stevens Park [PaEN]
NewsClips:
-- Centre Daily Times: New Centre County Campsites Highlighted As PA Summer Recreation Season Kicks Off
-- Erie Times - Brian Whipkey: PA’s Trail Of The Year - Path Of The Flood Trail- Combines Optimistic Future With Past Tragedy
-- Erie Times: Get Ready For Summing, Summer At Presque Isle State Park
-- Erie Times Guest Essay: DOGE Slashed AmeriCorps - Why The National Service Program Cuts Matter In PA - By State Rep. Dan Miller
-- Erie Times: Can You Fly A Drone At A State Park In Pennsylvania? [Spoiler - Only In 6 Parks]
-- KDKA: New Signs Posted At Blue Hole Creek Warn Of High Lead Levels In Westmoreland County
-- Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader: North Branch Land Trust Completes Huntsville Reservoir Conservation Easement
-- Tribune-Democrat: Cambria County Conservation And Recreation Authority Talks Test Site For Washout Prevention
-- TribLive: Pittsburgh Parks Rank 15th Nationally, Research Says
[Posted: May 21, 2025] PA Environment Digest
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