Day Trips from Bethlehem
← All Bethlehem day tripsDay Trips from Bethlehem: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Bethlehem, PA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Bethlehem
White Clay Creek State Park Nature Center
Newark, DE 19711
Just 1 hr 48 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 267 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton, PA 17814
Just 1 hr 47 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 5,699 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve
West Chester, PA 19382
Just 1 hr 23 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 648 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Nolde Forest - Sawmill
Reading, PA 19607
Just 1 hr 6 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 539 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Lands' Crow's Nest Preserve
Elverson, PA 19520
Just 1 hr 13 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 162 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Just 1 hr 58 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 2,432 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Lands' Hildacy Preserve
Media, PA 19063
Just 1 hr 10 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 202 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Susquehannock State Park
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 2 hrs from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 797 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 5,489 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 1 hr 6 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 2,101 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gateway National Recreation Area
Highlands, NJ 07732
Just 1 hr 39 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 6,952 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Bushkill, PA 18324
Just 45 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 6,739 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Bethlehem
What are the best state parks near Bethlehem, PA?
The best state parks near Bethlehem offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Bethlehem?
Most state parks near Bethlehem charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Bethlehem are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Bethlehem offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Bethlehem?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Bethlehem. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me