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National Cemetery · PA

Lancaster National Cemetery

Lancaster National Cemetery is a historic military cemetery honoring veterans and their families, offering a peaceful and reflective outdoor space in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

National Cemetery7

Designation

National Cemetery

Total Wilderness Area

7

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lancaster National Cemetery

Lancaster National Cemetery is a historic military cemetery honoring veterans and their families, offering a peaceful and reflective outdoor space in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lancaster National Cemetery is located in the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and serves as a respected burial ground for U.S. military veterans and eligible family members. Established during the Civil War era in 1862, this cemetery is part of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration. The cemetery spans approximately 7 acres and provides a dignified setting characterized by orderly rows of white headstones, manicured lawns, and mature trees, creating a calm, respectful environment for visitors. Though not a traditional outdoor recreation destination, it offers a place for historical reflection, quiet walks, and honoring military heritage. The cemetery holds the remains of veterans from multiple conflicts, including the Civil War, World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent military engagements. It features notable memorials and monuments dedicated to fallen soldiers. Visitors appreciate the serene ambiance combined with the educational opportunity to reflect on military history and sacrifice. The cemetery is accessible year-round and close to downtown Lancaster, making it a meaningful destination for those interested in military history or seeking a peaceful outdoor space.

Field Guide · National Cemetery
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lancaster National Cemetery

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Historic Lancaster: Walking Tour⌖ 0 miWalking Tour
Historic Lancaster Walking Tour

Discover Historic Lancaster: Walking Tour

Explore the Historic Lancaster Walking Tour, a leisurely walk through Lancaster, PA. Enjoy Federal and Victorian architecture while visiting landmarks like the Lancaster Central Market and Fulton Theatre. Perfect for all ages and best visited year-round.

Walking TourView Details→
Discovering Kilgore Falls: Nature's Gem in Pylesville★ 7.8⌖ 25 miHiking
Kilgore Falls

Discovering Kilgore Falls: Nature's Gem in Pylesville

Explore the serene Kilgore Falls in Rocks State Park. This easy 1.3-mile hike is popular for families and offers opportunities for picnicking and wildlife observation. Best visited in spring and fall to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural beauty.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Kilgore Falls★ 4.5⌖ 25 miHiking
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area

Discover the Hidden Gem of Kilgore Falls

Explore Kilgore Falls at Rocks State Park, a 1.3-mile trail near Pylesville, MD. A short, easy hike leading to Maryland's second-highest waterfall. Perfect for families, photography, and picnicking, it's best visited in spring or fall for fewer crowds.

Waterfall Wonder at Amos Falls★ 7.4⌖ 27 miHiking
Amos Falls

Waterfall Wonder at Amos Falls

Visit Amos Falls in Maryland for a peaceful retreat. This area is great for hiking, bird watching, and photography. Enjoy quiet trails and wildlife sightings, especially in spring.

Scenic Wonders of Rocks State Park★ 7.8⌖ 28 miHiking
Rocks State Park

Scenic Wonders of Rocks State Park

Explore the iconic King and Queen Seat at Rocks State Park, MD, offering moderate hikes with breathtaking views. Popular for climbing, birding, and photography, best visited in spring and fall. Not wheelchair accessible, with potential slippery conditions near waterfalls.

Waterfall Wonders: Gilpins Falls★ 7.4⌖ 33 miHiking
Gilpins Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Gilpins Falls

Explore Gilpins Falls in Maryland, known for its stunning waterfall and rock formations. Perfect for hiking and photography, the area offers tranquility and natural beauty.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wreaths Across America memorial events✦ Historic Civil War era interments✦ Veterans graves from multiple U.S. military conflicts✦ Peaceful reflection areas with mature shade trees
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lancaster National Cemetery

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lancaster National Cemetery
Park Recreation

Historic Site Visits

Available in Lancaster National Cemetery
Park Recreation

Walking

Available in Lancaster National Cemetery
Park Recreation

Reflective Meditation

Available in Lancaster National Cemetery
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lancaster National Cemetery.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lancaster National Cemetery

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Lancaster
⌖ 0.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

A quaint rural area with opportunities for outdoor adventures amidst scenic farmlands and rivers.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Lampeter
⌖ 4.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lampeter, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural town surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle woodlands, offering relaxed access to laid-back outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and paddling nearby.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Smoketown
⌖ 5.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Smoketown, Pennsylvania

A small town offering calm rural charm combined with access to serene waterways and gentle trails ideal for low-key outdoor activities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Bird in Hand
⌖ 6.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bird in Hand, Pennsylvania

A serene gateway to Amish country’s pastoral landscapes, offering quiet trails, gentle waterways, and rich cultural immersion framed by untouched farmlands.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Landisville
⌖ 7.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Landisville, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural town offering access to Pennsylvania Dutch farmlands, gentle trails, and nearby state parks for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Conestoga
⌖ 7.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Conestoga, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural community rich in history and natural landscapes, perfect for low-key outdoor exploration and enjoying Pennsylvania’s farmland and waterways.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lancaster National Cemetery

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.