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State Game Lands · PA

State Game Lands Number 80

State Game Lands Number 80 is a Pennsylvania state-managed wildlife area offering diverse outdoor recreation and prime opportunities for hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking across its forested terrain.

State Game Lands8,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Game Lands

Total Wilderness Area

8,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About State Game Lands Number 80

State Game Lands Number 80 is a Pennsylvania state-managed wildlife area offering diverse outdoor recreation and prime opportunities for hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking across its forested terrain.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

State Game Lands Number 80 (SGL 80) is a managed forest and wildlife conservation area located in central Pennsylvania primarily within Clearfield County. The area features a mix of mixed hardwood forest, brushlands, and small wetlands, providing habitat for a diverse range of game species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and waterfowl. Established to support wildlife populations and provide managed hunting opportunities, SGL 80 covers a mosaic of hilly terrain, with elevations ranging roughly from 1,300 to 1,800 feet. Popular recreational uses include hunting during regulated seasons, hiking on small-maintained trails and logging roads, and wildlife watching, especially in early spring and fall migration periods. The land is administered by the Pennsylvania Game Commission for both conservation and public outdoor use. Though the area is less developed than nearby state parks, it appeals to visitors looking for quiet, backcountry experiences and a chance to connect with native wildlife. There are no developed campgrounds within SGL 80 itself, but dispersed primitive camping is allowed in compliance with state game lands regulations. Access is provided via a network of gravel forest roads and designated parking areas. While not a major tourist destination, this game land offers substantial natural value within Pennsylvania’s network of public hunting and wildlife areas.

Field Guide · State Game Lands
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near State Game Lands Number 80

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

Hiking Adventure at North Country National Scenic Trail Trailhead★ 7.5⌖ 39 miHiking
North Country National Scenic Trail Trailhead

Hiking Adventure at North Country National Scenic Trail Trailhead

The North Country National Scenic Trail Trailhead near Leeper, PA offers a peaceful introduction to extensive forest hikes and wildlife viewing. Ideal for day hikes or longer adventures, enjoy stone staircases, streams, and quiet woodland scenery best experienced from late spring through early fall.

Wander Through Cook Forest: A Natural Gem★ 8.7⌖ 40 miHiking
Cook Forest State Park

Wander Through Cook Forest: A Natural Gem

Explore Cook Forest State Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the East. Enjoy hiking, camping, and water activities around the beautiful Clarion River. Ideal for families and nature lovers year-round.

Ruins and Trails: Discovering Shingletown Gap★ 7.5⌖ 44 miHiking
Shingletown Gap

Ruins and Trails: Discovering Shingletown Gap

Explore the trails at Shingletown Gap near State College, PA, featuring historical ruins and lush forests. A prime spot for hiking and birdwatching, it offers pathways for all skill levels amidst beautiful landscapes.

Discover Allegheny National Forest★ 7.8⌖ 47 miHiking
Allegheny National Forest

Discover Allegheny National Forest

Explore Allegheny National Forest in Marienville, PA. With its sprawling woodlands and diverse activities like hiking, boating, and camping, it's a serene getaway. Best in spring and fall with quiet trails year-round.

Kinzua Skywalk: Where Engineering Meets Nature★ 7.0⌖ 49 miSightseeing
Kinzua Bridge State Park

Kinzua Skywalk: Where Engineering Meets Nature

Explore the Kinzua Skywalk located at Kinzua Bridge State Park in Pennsylvania. This easy access historical landmark offers breathtaking views from its glass-bottom deck. Ideal for sightseeing and seasonal hiking, it's open year-round with family-friendly amenities.

SightseeingView Details→
Cherry Springs State Park: A Stargazer’s Paradise★ 8.2⌖ 58 miStargazing
Cherry Springs State Park

Cherry Springs State Park: A Stargazer’s Paradise

Cherry Springs State Park in Coudersport, PA, is renowned for stargazing with one of the darkest skies in the U.S. Enjoy hiking through diverse flora along peaceful trails. Ideal for photographers and stargazers seeking a serene retreat.

StargazingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Large tracts of mixed hardwood forests providing excellent habitat for white-tailed deer and wild turkey✦ Access to quiet ponds and small wetlands favored by waterfowl and amphibians✦ Extensive network of service roads and multi-use trails offering low-impact hiking and wildlife viewing✦ Remote areas suitable for primitive hunting camps and solitude seekers
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in State Game Lands Number 80

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
Park Recreation

Primitive Camping

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in State Game Lands Number 80
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in State Game Lands Number 80.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for entry, but standard Pennsylvania hunting licenses and permits are mandatory for hunting activities.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in State Game Lands Number 80

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience State Game Lands Number 80. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near State Game Lands Number 80

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

Curwensville
⌖ 5.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Curwensville, Pennsylvania

A quiet small town offering access to peaceful outdoor activities focused on paddling, hiking, and nature exploration near waterways and forested areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Grampian
⌖ 5.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Grampian, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and paddling in a scenic Appalachian foothills setting.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Clearfield
⌖ 7.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clearfield, Pennsylvania

A quiet town offering access to rugged forests, waterways, and seasonal outdoor activities in the Allegheny Plateau region.

Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
DuBois
⌖ 10.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

DuBois, Pennsylvania

A welcoming small town with access to diverse outdoor activities including hiking, paddling, and winter sports nearby, set amidst Pennsylvania’s rolling woodlands.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Falls Creek
⌖ 13.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Falls Creek, Pennsylvania

A quiet small town offering access to scenic forest landscapes, rivers, and trails in the Pocono Mountains region, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
Venedocia
⌖ 15.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Venedocia, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural community offering peaceful access to Pennsylvania's natural woodlands and waterways, perfect for travelers seeking low-key outdoor experiences.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in State Game Lands Number 80

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.