Overview
As Pennsylvania’s leader and chief advocate for conservation and outdoor recreation, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will inspire citizens to:
- Value their natural resources
- Engage in conservation practices
- Experience the outdoors
Hiking
Hiking is the most popular outdoor activity in Pennsylvania, and it’s no wonder with all of the outstanding opportunities, from short loop hikes on state park trails to long, multi-day options on state forest lands, to family-friendly adventures on one of Pennsylvania’s rail-trails.
Hiking
Biking
If your need for speed is on two wheels, there are lots of options in our Pennsylvania state parks or the vast network of rail trails in Pennsylvania for a spin on flat, family-friendly trails.
Biking
Kayaking and Canoeing
Pennsylvania is a paddler’s paradise because it is blessed with an abundance of lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds all across the commonwealth for kayaking and canoeing. Many of these paddling opportunities exist within our state parks and forests.
Kayaking and Canoeing-
June 15, 2026 Shapiro Administration Provides Tips, Best Practices for Preventing Lyme Disease and Tick Bites at Samuel S. Lewis State ParkOfficials encouraged visitors to Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests to take simple precautions to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease while enjoying outdoor recreation this summer.
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June 11, 2026 Shapiro Administration Makes State Parks and Forests More Accessible for all VisitorsNew online planning tools, communication boards, Handy Talkers, and colorblind viewing resources make it easier for all visitors to plan trips and enjoy Pennsylvania’s public lands.
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June 10, 2026 In Lancaster County, Secretary Dunn Recognizes Conestoga River, Named as Pennsylvania’s 2026 River of the YearThe Conestoga flows for more than 61 miles, from its headwaters in Berks County down to the Susquehanna River below the Safe Harbor Dam — threading past historic covered bridges, working farms, and small towns.
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June 01, 2026 Governor’s Invasive Species Council Celebrates Native Species Day, Highlights Shapiro Administration Investments in Healthy Forests, Waterways, and WildlifeThe Pennsylvania Governor’s Invasive Species Council highlighted the importance of Shapiro Administration investments in protecting native plants, insects, and animals during the fifth annual Pennsylvania Native Species Day in the East Wing Rotunda of the State Capitol.