Camping on the creek in Downingtown, Pennsylvania

Marsh Creek State Park is located in the picturesque rolling hills of north central Chester County, Pennsylvania. Covering 1,784 acres, the park is home to the stunning 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake, offering a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, sailing, and bird watching. Visitors can access the park from the Downingtown Exit 312 of the Pennsylvania Turnpike via PA 100 north. Signs in Eagle direct visitors to the day-use (east) side of the park, while the horse stable, trails, and boat launch access are located on the west side at 800 North Reeds Road, Downingtown, PA.

Paradise Valley Nature Area is a 40-acre park located at 1179-1209 Valley Creek Road in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. This nature preserve offers fishing access to the West Valley Creek, a stocked trout stream. The property features natural surface trails that connect to the Chapel Trail on Paradise Farm Camps land. Visitors are encouraged to stay on the trails and follow all posted rules. Two parking areas are available for visitors, with one providing access to the creek for fishing and the other offering upland access to the preserve via the Chapel Trail. The Chapel Trail also serves as an outdoor classroom for youth development programs at Paradise Farm Camps. Whether you're looking to enjoy nature, go fishing, or explore the trails, Paradise Valley Nature Area is a must-visit destination in Downingtown.