Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, Kelleys Run Wildlife Preserve comprises a collection of wetlands, meadows, and forested areas that provide critical habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. The preserve is part of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s holdings and is managed primarily to conserve wildlife in their natural environments while allowing regulated public access. The terrain varies from wetlands fed by Kelleys Run stream to upland hardwood forests, creating a diverse landscape that supports amphibians, birds, mammals, and native plant communities. The area has historic importance tied to early settlement and land use patterns typical of northeastern Pennsylvania. Visitors can enjoy quiet hiking along unmarked or lightly maintained trails, birdwatching—especially for species such as great blue herons, wood ducks, and various migratory songbirds—and seasonal hunting following state regulations. Kelleys Run is appreciated for its relatively undisturbed natural conditions and peaceful settings. Waterfowl and wetland-dependent species benefit from the preservation of aquatic habitats, and photographers and naturalists find ample opportunities to observe and document wildlife. Due to its focus on conservation, the preserve offers a more low-key, nature-centered experience rather than developed recreational facilities. This makes Kelleys Run appealing to those seeking solitude, education, and immersion in northeastern Pennsylvania’s native ecosystems.
