Natural lands in Pennsylvania

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.

Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 454 North Creek Road in West Chester, Pennsylvania, United States. This unique preserve is a mix of grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands that provides a perfect balance between human needs and nature conservation. The 332-acre preserve was established in 1990 by Dr. Morris Stroud, who bequeathed his Georgia Farm to Natural Lands. Since then, the preserve has expanded through donations and purchases of neighboring properties. The history of Stroud Preserve dates back to the founding of the colony, with the stone farmhouse built in 1740 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve also serves as a long-term study site for the Stroud Water Research Center, conducting groundbreaking research on streams and rivers. Scientists from the Center have set up experiments to evaluate the impact of riparian forest buffers on water quality.

Located at 1199 Cannery Road in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, the Natural Lands' ChesLen Preserve is the largest privately owned nature preserve open to the public in Chester County. Visitors can explore miles of marked hiking trails that wind through shady woodlands, flower-filled meadows, farm fields, and stream valleys. The Ollie Owl’s NaturePlayGround is a highlight for young explorers, where they can climb logs, build stick tee-pees, hunt for bugs, and get a little dirty while gaining an appreciation for nature. History buffs will appreciate the Star Gazers’ Stone, a reference point placed by surveyors and astronomers Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon in 1763 to mark the astronomical meridian line. The preserve was once part of a 17,000-acre tract owned by the legendary King Ranch, known for grazing cattle on the lush fields. Visitors can also discover a small cemetery that is a remnant of the Chester County Poorhouse, which operated as a refuge for orphans and indigent adults.

Natural Lands' Wawa Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Valley Road in Media, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature in a serene and peaceful setting. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, the Wawa Preserve is the perfect destination for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor experience, the Natural Lands' Wawa Preserve has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Pennsylvania.

Fry Landing is a picturesque park located in Erie, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful institution offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provides a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax and unwind. With its well-maintained walking paths, lush greenery, and tranquil atmosphere, Fry Landing is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with loved ones, or simply enjoying nature's beauty. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply seeking a serene setting to connect with nature, Fry Landing is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Eagles' Landing is a charming lodging establishment located on Kokolias Lane in Matamoras, Pennsylvania, United States. Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of nature, Eagles' Landing offers a peaceful retreat for guests seeking relaxation and comfort. With cozy accommodations and personalized service, this institution provides a home away from home for travelers exploring the picturesque beauty of the Pocono Mountains region. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Eagles' Landing is the perfect destination for a memorable and rejuvenating experience.

Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 47 Rabbit Run Lane in Bear Creek Village, Pennsylvania. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore over 3,500 acres of pristine wilderness, including lush forests, meadows, and sparkling creeks. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat into nature or a fun-filled day of outdoor adventure, Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

State Game Lands Number 182 is a sprawling outdoor recreational area located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with vast expanses of forest, fields, and wetlands to explore. As a designated game land, visitors can also enjoy hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this natural habitat. State Game Lands Number 182 is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with the great outdoors.

Stoneleigh: a natural garden is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 1829 County Line Road in Villanova, Pennsylvania. This former family home has been transformed into a stunning public garden that showcases the beauty of native plants and the importance of biodiversity. With over 40,000 plants on display, visitors can enjoy the expansive vistas and dynamic displays that celebrate the natural world. The institution aims to inspire guests to consider the impact of gardening in harmony with nature on the health of our planet. Stoneleigh offers weekly gardening events for volunteers to participate in, with no experience necessary. Join the staff and fellow volunteers in weeding, mulching, planting, and other projects to help maintain this beautiful garden. Stoneleigh is operated by Natural Lands, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting natural spaces.

Natural Lands' Meng Preserve is a beautiful park located at 226 Mine Hill Road in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania. This forested property features impressive outcrops of diabase rock and vernal pools, making it a haven for wildlife, including various species of migratory songbirds. Once the home of Eva R. Meng, who generously gifted the land to Valley Forge Audubon Society in 1994, the preserve now boasts two miles of hiking trails named in honor of Eva and her sister, Edna Meng. This steeply sloped preserve is part of the Stone Hill Greenway, a vast, unbroken forest that provides essential habitat for wildlife. The property was used as "Camp Ivy" for Girl Scout Troop #3 of Schwenksville for many years, allowing children to connect with the natural world. In 2019, ownership of the preserve was transferred to Natural Lands, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving open space, caring for nature, and connecting people to the outdoors.

Lansdowne Landing is a charming park located at 30 North Lansdowne Avenue in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful green space offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with well-maintained grounds and a variety of recreational amenities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, walking trails, and outdoor sports in this tranquil setting. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun outing with family and friends, Lansdowne Landing is the perfect destination for outdoor enjoyment.

Liberty Lands is a charming community park located at 913 North 3rd Street in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This hidden gem is a popular tourist attraction, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy lush green spaces, beautiful gardens, and a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, jogging, and playing sports. The park also hosts events and gatherings for the local community, making it a vibrant hub of social activity. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with friends and family, Liberty Lands is the perfect destination for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.

Ferry Landing Park is a picturesque park located on East Ferry Street in New Hope, Pennsylvania. This charming park offers stunning views of the Delaware River and is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the outdoors. Visitors can relax on the park benches, take a stroll along the riverside paths, or simply admire the historic ferry landing site. With its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Ferry Landing Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.

Located at 547 South Swedesford Road in North Wales, Pennsylvania, Natural Lands' Gwynedd Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The main parking lot is currently under construction, so visitors are advised to park on Evergreen Drive and enter the preserve from there if the lot is closed. Gwynedd Preserve offers a peaceful retreat into nature, surrounded by the suburban developments of Blue Bell and North Wales. The fields, once used for agriculture, are now being carefully restored to their natural state, showcasing a variety of native plants such as warm-season grasses and wildflowers.

Natural Lands' Crow's Nest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 201 Piersol Road in Elverson, Pennsylvania, United States. It serves as the gateway to the Hopewell Big Woods, a vast 73,000-acre forest that extends into Berks County. Surrounded by French Creek State Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Crow's Nest is part of one of the largest areas of protected land in the region. French Creek, a pristine waterway, flows through the preserve, enhancing the natural beauty of the area and providing a habitat for various wildlife. Visitors may encounter Wood Ducks, beaver activity, and a variety of bird species in the dense forests. The preserve is part of the Hay Creek/French Creek Forest Block "Important Bird Area" designated by the National Audubon Society.

The Nature Conservancy, Hauser Nature Center, located at 1567 Long Pond Road in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, is a park and tourist attraction that is part of the Pocono Mountains. This area sustains the highest known assemblage of globally rare species in the state of Pennsylvania. The Long Pond Preserve complex includes the Hauser Nature Center and the nearby Long Pond Barrens, offering a variety of wildlife habitats such as bogs, swamps, forests, and more. The institution works with partners to survey plant and animal communities, using data for effective long-term management. The Pennsylvania Game Commission and TNC have used prescribed fire to restore over 2,000 acres in the barrens. The Long Pond area is comprised of approximately 12,000 acres owned by various entities including TNC.

State Game Lands Number 245 is a sprawling park located in Claysville, Pennsylvania, United States. As a travel agency, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the area through various outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and hunting. With its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, State Game Lands Number 245 is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers looking to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's wilderness. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or looking for an exciting outdoor adventure, this institution has something for everyone.

Bear Run Nature Reserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1478 Mill Run Road in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful nature reserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the natural world. With picturesque hiking trails, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls, Bear Run Nature Reserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous day out, this institution is sure to leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.

State Game Lands Number 43 is a sprawling park located in Elverson, Pennsylvania, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting wildlife and their habitats, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the lush forests, meadows, and wetlands while observing a variety of native wildlife species in their natural habitat. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or hunting, State Game Lands Number 43 offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at this pristine park.

Tobyhanna State Game Lands Shooting Range is a premier shooting facility located in Pennsylvania, United States. Situated on State Game Lands Road, this range offers a safe and controlled environment for shooting enthusiasts to practice and improve their marksmanship skills. With a variety of shooting lanes and targets available, shooters of all levels can enjoy a challenging and engaging experience. The range is surrounded by the natural beauty of the state game lands, providing a picturesque backdrop for a day of shooting. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced shooter honing your skills, Tobyhanna State Game Lands Shooting Range is the perfect destination for all your shooting needs.

State Game Lands No.168 is a sprawling park and tourist attraction located in Danielsville, Pennsylvania, United States. This institution is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, hunting, and fishing. The park is home to diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore miles of trails, picnic areas, and serene waterways while immersing themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. State Game Lands No.168 is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in nature.

The Nature Conservancy, Minsi Lake Vernal Pool Preserve, located on Institute Drive in Bangor, Pennsylvania, is a park dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. Controlled burning season is currently underway until May 31st, promoting the growth of native vegetation, increasing biodiversity, and minimizing the spread of invasive species. By recycling nutrients back into the soil, controlled burning benefits the ecosystem. The institution has been working for decades to protect Pennsylvania's rivers, forests, farms, and wildlife, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Through partnerships with various organizations and individuals, TNC in Pennsylvania and Delaware strives to improve water quality and conservation efforts. Visitors can enjoy birding opportunities, learn about the American eel's life cycle, and explore nature preserves throughout the state. By supporting TNC, individuals can contribute to groundbreaking conservation efforts and help protect thousands of acres of land in Pennsylvania. Join TNC in volunteering, attending events, and staying updated on conservation news to make a positive impact on the environment.

Natural Lands' Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 240 Sunnyside Road in Easton, Pennsylvania, United States. Perched on the steep slopes of Bougher Hill overlooking the scenic Delaware River, Mariton offers stunning views and a variety of trails to explore. One of the highlights of the preserve is the River Lookout Trail, which provides a seasonal overlook of both the Delaware Canal and the Delaware River 300 feet below. The Nature Center at Mariton includes a library, meeting space, and ADA restrooms, and is open by prior arrangement. The sanctuary was established in 1969 by Mary and Tony Guerrero, who wanted to protect the land and wildlife from development and create an environmental education center for the community. In 1992, the Trust entered into a long-term agreement with Natural Lands to manage the property, continuing the Guerrero family's legacy.

Native Lands Park is a captivating tourist attraction located at 1664 Long Level Road in Wrightsville, Pennsylvania. This park is a celebration of the region's indigenous heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Native American tribes that once called this land home. With serene walking trails, interactive exhibits, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Native Lands Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Come explore this unique and educational park and immerse yourself in the beauty and significance of the Native American heritage.

Walker's Landing is a beautiful park located in Pennsylvania, United States, along the French Creek Watershed. Operated by the French Creek Valley Conservancy, a non-profit land trust dedicated to preserving the natural habitat and recreational opportunities of the area, Walker's Landing offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and pristine water quality, French Creek is a nationally recognized waterway that is home to a variety of species, including native freshwater mussels and over 80 species of fish. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the French Creek Watershed.

Springfield Falls: State Game Lands 284 is a picturesque tourist attraction located on Falls Road in Mercer, Pennsylvania, United States. This stunning natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities that State Game Lands 284 has to offer. From hiking and bird watching to picnicking and photography, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Springfield Falls. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Pennsylvania.

The Helen B. Katz Natural Area, located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful park featuring high-quality wetlands and floodplain along the Cussewago Creek. Named in memory of Mrs. Helen Blockstein Katz, this area is a tribute to her generosity in conserving over 4,300 acres of land for the protection of rare species and natural communities. The natural area includes a hemlock forest, ponds, wetlands, and old fields, providing habitat for a diverse range of wildlife including wood ducks, beavers, and various bird species. Visitors can enjoy a rustic trail that leads to a manmade pond, with opportunities for hunting and fishing in accordance with state regulations. The area is also part of an Audubon Society Important Bird Area, attracting birdwatchers looking for species such as the cerulean warbler and hooded warbler. It is recommended to wear appropriate footwear for wet conditions and to review guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Miller Woods Nature Preserve, located at 266 Miller Road in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, United States, is a beautiful park that is part of the Wolf Creek Narrows Natural Area. Known for its stunning display of spring wildflowers, this preserve features a mature northern hardwood forest, scenic cliffs, and an active floodplain. The Wolf Creek Narrows Natural Area is believed to have been formed by the collapse of an ice-age cave ceiling, creating a steep, narrow gorge that is now home to a high-quality stream flowing through towering cliffs. The diverse natural communities found here are a result of natural processes such as annual flooding and limited human activities.

Wolf Creek Narrows Natural Area, located at 195 Miller Road in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, is a stunning park known for its vibrant display of spring wildflowers. The property features a mature northern hardwood forest, scenic cliffs, and an active floodplain, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The gorge of Wolf Creek Narrows is believed to have formed during the ice age when a cave ceiling collapsed due to glacier runoff, creating the towering cliffs and meandering stream that can be seen today. Visitors can explore a 1.5-mile loop footpath that leads through the forest, up the gorge's eastern flank, and back down to Wolf Creek. The trail offers moderate difficulty but is suitable for families with children. Along the way, hikers may spot a variety of wildlife, including birds like the belted kingfisher and wood thrush, as well as amphibians in the small pools of water.

Parkers Landing is a charming tourist attraction located on Manculich Lane in Parker, Pennsylvania, United States. This picturesque destination offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature's beauty. From scenic walking trails to breathtaking river views, Parkers Landing provides a perfect escape for those looking to relax and unwind. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil setting to explore, Parkers Landing is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.