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State Recreation Area · PA

Clear Creek State Recreation Area

Clear Creek State Recreation Area in Pennsylvania offers diverse outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and camping amidst forested hills and scenic waterways.

State Recreation Area3,0414+ Trails

Designation

State Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

3,041

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Clear Creek State Recreation Area

Clear Creek State Recreation Area in Pennsylvania offers diverse outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and camping amidst forested hills and scenic waterways.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Clear Creek State Recreation Area is situated in northwestern Pennsylvania within Jefferson County, spanning over rugged forested terrain characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and a network of streams including the namesake Clear Creek. The area lies within the Allegheny Plateau and features a mixed hardwood forest ecosystem with species such as oak, maple, hickory, and pine, supporting an abundance of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and various songbirds. Established to provide outdoor recreational opportunities, the park offers ample space for hiking on trails that wind through varied topography and scenic overlooks, as well as access for fishing in Clear Creek and small lakes stocked with trout. Camping is a popular activity here, with both developed and primitive campsites available for visitors seeking solitude or group gatherings. The area also allows for mountain biking and cross-country skiing in winter months, accommodating all-season adventure. Clear Creek State Recreation Area is known for its tranquil natural setting away from heavy tourism, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy quiet exploration and wildlife observation. The combination of rugged hills, dense forests, and clear water bodies makes it a valuable habitat and a refreshing destination for nature-based activities. Visitor facilities include picnic areas and boat launches, contributing to a well-rounded outdoor experience. Accessibility from nearby towns adds convenience while preserving the area's rustic charm.

Field Guide · State Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Clear Creek State Recreation Area

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

Hiking Adventure at North Country National Scenic Trail Trailhead★ 7.5⌖ 22 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⌖ 23 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.

Discover Allegheny National Forest★ 7.8⌖ 39 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⌖ 50 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→
Wildlife Rehabilitation Wonders: Humane Animal Rescue★ 8.5⌖ 62 miWildlife Observation
Humane Animal Rescue Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

Wildlife Rehabilitation Wonders: Humane Animal Rescue

Visit the Humane Animal Rescue Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Verona, PA. Enjoy family-friendly wildlife observation and educational programs. Best visited in spring and summer for active wildlife scenes. Drive-in access and educational opportunities make it a memorable experience.

Wildlife ObservationView Details→
Ruins and Trails: Discovering Shingletown Gap★ 7.5⌖ 63 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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Clear Creek Trout Stocked Fishing Area✦ Scenic overlooks along the Clear Creek hiking trails✦ Cross-country skiing trails open in winter✦ Remote primitive camping sites surrounded by dense forest
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Clear Creek State Recreation Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Clear Creek State Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Clear Creek State Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fee required during peak season; camping fees apply; no permits needed for hiking.

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 Clear Creek State Recreation Area

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

Clear Creek Family Campground

Provides 80 sites with electric hookups, water access, showers, and a playground, located centrally near recreation facilities.

Clear Creek Group Campground

Remote site designed for large groups offering pit toilets and fire rings, suitable for rustic camping experiences.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Clear Creek State Recreation Area

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

Brookville
⌖ 8.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brookville, Pennsylvania

A quiet and scenic gateway to Pennsylvania’s outdoor offerings, with a focus on paddling, hiking, and seasonal activities in a largely forested region.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Falls Creek
⌖ 8.87 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
Punxsutawney
⌖ 9.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

A small town known for its unique cultural event, surrounded by rolling hills, forested lands, and rural landscapes offering peaceful outdoor recreation.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowshoeingExplore Town
DuBois
⌖ 10.22 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
Brockway
⌖ 13.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brockway, Pennsylvania

A small, welcoming town offering quiet access to wooded trails, gentle waterways, and outdoor activities suited for all seasons in the northern Pennsylvania region.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowshoeing and cold-weather birdingExplore Town
Grampian
⌖ 19.40 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Clear Creek State Recreation Area

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.