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Loyalsock State Forest, PA

Description

Loyalsock State Forest is named for Loyalsock Creek, a scenic freestone stream that winds through the heart of its 114,522 acres. The forest spans ...[more]
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Overview

Description

Loyalsock State Forest is named for Loyalsock Creek, a scenic freestone stream that winds through the heart of its 114,522 acres. The forest spans the northern tier’s “Endless Mountains” region in portions of Sullivan, Bradford, and Lycoming Counties.


For more information visit the Loyalsock State Forest website and Facebook page.

Geography:

The Loyalsock State Forest is found in the Glaciated High Plateau and Deep Valleys ecoregions. Landforms, geology, and totality of ecosystem factors have made this forest district notable for: northern hardwood timber production, high occurrences of bogs, natural gas exploration, headwaters of the Susquehanna River, high gradient coldwater streams and waterfalls, thriving brook trout populations, and a low population density of human beings. There are numerous ecological and geological features of note including the Haystack Rapids, Dry Run Falls, Devil’s Elbow Natural Area and many more.

Recreation:

Visitors are drawn to the Loyalsock State Forest for its unmatched beauty and to participate in the many recreational activities available there. Over 130 miles of well-maintained public use roads offer both access to the forest and opportunities for scenic driving where there are numerous vistas.


For the adventurous, there are over 200 miles of hiking trails, including the beloved Loyalsock Trail and Old Loggers Path. There are many shared use paths including the 52-mile Bridle Trail. The Loyalsock State Forest is a premier fishing destination with miles of streams featuring pristine, cascading water. The vast tracts of forest also offer excellent hunting opportunities amongst its diverse habitats.


The McIntyre Wild Area and Kettle Creek Wild Area allow for exploration of forests with wild character. Just a few other favorite activities include canoeing, kayaking, and picnicking. In the winter months snowmobiling and cross country skiing are popular.


For maps of these areas visit the Loyalsock State Forest map page.

Facilities:

The Loyalsock State Forest is managed primarily for dispersed recreation and facilities are generally limited.


There are picnicking facilities at the Dry Run Picnic Area where pavilions, picnic tables, grills, and latrines are availableas well as at the Bear Wallow and Sones Pond Recreation Areas. The trailhead along World’s End Road (SR3009) has ample parking and a shelter that serves as an ideal gateway to the many trails in the area.


The Loyalsock State Forest also has 4 designated camping areas and dozens of singular, remote, dispersed roadside campsites. These are designated with a signpost and campsite name. They are primitive in nature and most have no improvements, although some may have a picnic table or fire ring. Check the campsite details thoroughly.

Nearby Attractions:

Worlds End State Park, Ricketts Glen State Park, Rider Park, Glacial Pools Preserve, Rose Valley Lake, Hunters Lake

Services and Amenities

Services & Amenities:

Within Park
  • Bicycling
  • Bird Watching
  • Boating
  • Camping, Backcountry
  • Camping, Equestrian
  • Camping, Primitive
  • Canoeing
  • Fire Rings
  • Fishing
  • Fishing - River/Stream
  • Hiking
  • Hiking Trail
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hunting
  • Kayaking
  • Kiosk
  • Mountain/Trail Bicycling
  • Office/Ranger Station
  • Parking
  • Picnic Area
  • Picnic Pavilion
  • Picnic Shelter
  • Picnic Tables
  • Scenic Driving Routes
  • Stargazing
  • Trails Hiking/Walking, Easy
  • Trails, Difficult Hiking
  • Trails, Moderate Hiking
  • Trails, Mountain Bike
  • Waterfall
  • Wildflower Viewing
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • river/stream
  • trails - equestrian
Getting There
GPS Info. (Latitude, Longitude):
41.43947, -76.46433
41°26'22"N, 76°27'52"W

From I-180, take Exit 15 and continue on US-220Nfor 30 miles to the District Office on the left.
Contact Information

Contact Information:

Mailing Address:

Loyalsock State Forest
6735 Route 220
Dushore  PA  18614
Phone Number:
Park Office: (570)946-4049

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