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Day Forest National Park adventures

Day Forest National Park Adventures

Day Forest National Park offers a diverse landscape of hardwood forests and rolling hills, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and camping.

150,000
Acres Protected
120
Miles of Trails
850,000
Annual Visitors
1935
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Day Forest National Park.

Entrance Requirements

A park pass or entrance fee is required.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Visitor Information

Main Visitor Center located near the south entrance.

Getting There

Accessible via US Highway 64; some roads are closed in winter.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and vibrant colors.

Conservation Efforts

Invasive species and land erosion are ongoing challenges, with active conservation programs in place.

Camping in Day Forest National Park

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Pine Creek Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Located near the main park entrance with easy access to trails and amenities.

Bear Lake Backcountry

Backcountry
No Reservations Needed

A remote setting for those seeking solitude and a true wilderness experience.

Top Trails

Sunrise Loop

Moderate
4.2

Offers stunning sunrise views from the ridge tops.

Raven's Rock Trail

Hard
7.5

A challenging hike rewarding with panoramic mountain views.

Fern Gully Path

Easy
3.1

Winds through lush fern groves and towering trees.

Waterfall Way

Moderate
5.0

Features a series of cascading waterfalls and misty forest surroundings.

Trailblazer Tips

Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds.

Spring and fall offer the most moderate hiking conditions.

Arrive early to secure parking at popular trailheads.

Carry a map and a compass as GPS is unreliable in some areas.

Helpful Resources