Adventure to Gettysburg’s Nearby State Parks

Caledonia State Park

Just a short drive from Downtown Gettysburg, travelers will find a park steeped in Civil War history. Caledonia State Park was the site of abolitionist Thaddeus Steven’s ironworks. During the Gettysburg Campaign, Confederate cavalrymen burned and pillaged Caledonia. Remnants of Stevens’ blacksmith shop and furnace can be found on the Thaddeus Stevens Historic Trail, one of many trails in the 11-mile system. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s 18-hole golf course and outdoor pool.

Cunningham Falls State Park

Cunningham Falls State Park is surrounded by the ridges of Catoctin Mountain, just south of the Mason-Dixon Line in Maryland. The park is home to the state’s highest cascading waterfall, for which the park is named. At roughly 78 feet, the waterfall is a stunning sight to behold. The park’s trails range from easy, flat hikes to steep, rocky ascents. Hunting Creek Lake is open for fishing, swimming and boating.

Gifford Pinchot State Park

Back in Pennsylvania, Gifford Pinchot State Park offers 18 miles of hiking around Pinchot Lake. Follow trails to boulder and rock outcrops to discover extraordinary views. Spend the day fishing for bass or playing a round of disc golf before cooling off with a swim at Quaker Race Beach. When the day is done, pitch a tent or cozy up in a cabin.

Photo: DCNR

Mont Alto

Established just ten years after the end of the Civil War, Mont Alto is Pennsylvania’s oldest park still in the state park system. This quiet park features a unique domed dance pavilion, picturesque springs, and trout fishing. Like Caledonia, Mont Alto State Park was once the site of historic ironworks. It’s a great place to find your solitude.

Photo: DCNR

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Seated at the tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Pine Grove Furnace State Park is home to the mid-point of the Appalachian Trail. Thru-hikers over the years have celebrated reaching this milestone by partaking in the “half-gallon challenge” at the general store, where hikers attempt to eat a half-gallon of ice cream in one sitting. Visitors should check out the Appalachian Trail Museum to learn about the epic trail’s history.

Michaux State Forest

Michaux State Forest encompasses more than 85,000 acres in the South Mountain area, spanning three counties. Hiking, camping, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and picnicking can be experienced throughout the forest. The trails of Strawberry Hill are part of Michaux’s trail system. At Strawberry Hill, visitors can explore the Nature Classroom and learn about community events that take place there throughout the year.