Day Trips from Scranton
← All Scranton day tripsDay Trips from Scranton: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Scranton, PA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Scranton
Worlds End State Park
Forksville, PA 18616
Just 1 hr 30 min from Scranton, rated 4.9 stars by 1,619 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.
New Pocono Trust's Conservation
PA 18702, USA
Just 33 min from Scranton, rated 4.9 stars, 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 1 hr 52 min from Scranton, 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.
Clark Reservation State Park
Jamesville, NY 13078
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Scranton, rated 4.8 stars by 1,102 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 57 min from Scranton, 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.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Scranton, 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' Crow's Nest Preserve
Elverson, PA 19520
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Scranton, 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.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 24 min from Scranton, 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.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Bushkill, PA 18324
Just 51 min from Scranton, 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.
Gateway National Recreation Area
Highlands, NJ 07732
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Scranton, 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.
Pinchot State Forest -Thornhurst Tract
Thornhurst Township, PA 18424
Just 37 min from Scranton, rated 4.7 stars by 439 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.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 58 min from Scranton, rated 4.7 stars by 1,003 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 Scranton
What are the best state parks near Scranton, PA?
The best state parks near Scranton 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 Scranton?
Most state parks near Scranton 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 Scranton are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Scranton 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 Scranton?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Scranton. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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