Day Trips from State College
← All State College day tripsDay Trips from State College: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of State College, PA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near State College
Worlds End State Park
Forksville, PA 18616
Just 1 hr 49 min from State College, 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.
Quehanna Wild Area
PA 15832, USA
Just 1 hr 10 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 148 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.
Bear Run Nature Reserve
Mill Run, PA 15464
Just 2 hrs 28 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 1,329 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.
Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Just 2 hrs 26 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 9,434 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 41 min from State College, 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.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton, PA 17814
Just 1 hr 50 min from State College, 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.
Gallitzin State Forest
Ebensburg, PA 15931
Just 1 hr 33 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 230 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.
Codorus State Park
Hanover, PA 17331
Just 2 hrs 27 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 4,414 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 2 hrs 36 min from State College, 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.
Rothrock State Forest
PA 16801, USA
Just 30 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 748 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 2 hrs 7 min from State College, 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.
Bucktail State Park Natural Area
Mill Hall, PA 17751
Just 55 min from State College, rated 4.7 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from State College
What are the best state parks near State College, PA?
The best state parks near State College 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 State College?
Most state parks near State College 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 State College are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of State College 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 State College?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near State College. 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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