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State Park · PA

Nescopeck State Park

Nescopeck State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation within over 3,500 acres of forested landscapes and streams in northeastern Pennsylvania.

State Park3,5504+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,550

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Nescopeck State Park

Nescopeck State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation within over 3,500 acres of forested landscapes and streams in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Nescopeck State Park is located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, encompassing over 3,500 acres of mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and mountainous terrain dominated by the Nescopeck Creek watershed. The park's landscape is defined by rolling hills, deep valleys, and clean cold-water streams, which support trout populations and a variety of other freshwater species. Established in 1975, the park aims to protect the natural habitat and provide recreational opportunities to residents and visitors. The park features an extensive network of multi-use trails used for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in winter, all set within a mix of mature forests and open fields. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe species such as white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds. Anglers come to Nescopeck Creek for its trout fishing opportunities, while paddlers may explore calm stretches of the Nescopeck Creek and other smaller waterways. The park includes several scenic overlooks and picnic areas that encourage day-use visitors to relax amid natural surroundings. No major development within the park interrupts the serene environment, making it a peaceful destination for nature walks and photography. While there are no particularly high peaks, the elevation changes offer moderate hiking challenges. Accessibility from nearby towns like Berwick and Nescopeck allows easy day trips or weekend visits. The park’s conservation efforts focus on protecting water quality in the Nescopeck Creek watershed and maintaining the integrity of its forest ecosystems.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Nescopeck State Park

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

Tranquil Waters of the Susquehanna River⌖ 18 miKayaking
Susquehanna River

Tranquil Waters of the Susquehanna River

Explore the tranquil Susquehanna River, stretching 444 miles through PA, ideal for kayaking and fishing. Family-friendly with scenic views and wildlife spotting. Enjoy year-round adventures with moderate crowds and stunning spring and fall scenes.

Ricketts Glen State Park: Nature's Hidden Gem★ 8.8⌖ 19 miHiking
Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park: Nature's Hidden Gem

Explore Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, PA. The park's Falls Trail is a challenging 7.2-mile loop with 21 waterfalls. Ideal for hiking, nature walks, and bird watching. Best visited in fall for stunning foliage, sturdy footwear recommended.

Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls★ 8.5⌖ 28 miHiking
Glen Onoko Falls

Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls

Explore Glen Onoko Falls near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Known for its scenic beauty and challenging access, this area offers hiking and birding opportunities. Access to the falls is restricted for safety. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary★ 8.8⌖ 33 miBirdwatching
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is renowned for birdwatching, particularly during fall migrations. The sanctuary is a photographer's delight but can get busy during peak seasons. Enjoy hiking and catching sight of migratory raptors in this protected area.

BirdwatchingView Details→
Scenic Wonder at Pulpit Rock, Pennsylvania★ 6.3⌖ 36 miHiking
Pulpit Rock

Scenic Wonder at Pulpit Rock, Pennsylvania

Experience the stunning vistas of Pulpit Rock along the Appalachian Trail in Kempton, PA. This moderately challenging hike is ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, with picturesque views especially captivating in spring and fall.

Majestic Trails: Appalachian National Scenic Trail★ 8.8⌖ 43 miHiking
Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Majestic Trails: Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Explore the iconic Appalachian National Scenic Trail, stretching 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine. This challenging hike offers stunning views and diverse wildlife. Best hiked in spring or fall to avoid crowds. Not wheelchair accessible, but an adventure seeker's dream.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Nescopeck Creek – a prime trout fishing stream✦ Multi-use trail system accommodating hikers, mountain bikers, and snowmobilers✦ Scenic views from elevation points along Sugarloaf Mountain Loop✦ Wetlands and forest habitat supporting diverse bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Nescopeck State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Nescopeck State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Nescopeck State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Nescopeck State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free entry; no permits or fees required for day use; camping reservations may be needed at designated campgrounds.

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 Nescopeck State Park

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

Nescopeck State Park Campground

Located near the park office with tent and trailer sites, modern restrooms, and potable water available; popular for family camping.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Nescopeck State Park

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

Berwick
⌖ 1.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berwick, Pennsylvania

A historic small town along the Susquehanna River offering easy access to outdoor activities blending river adventures, trails, and four-season options.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Nescopeck
⌖ 1.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nescopeck, Pennsylvania

A quiet rural town offering serene outdoor experiences along waterways and forest areas, perfect for paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers seeking low-key adventure.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Shickshinny
⌖ 8.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shickshinny, Pennsylvania

A peaceful small town on the Susquehanna River offering easy access to serene paddling, hiking trails, and scenic natural areas in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Bloomsburg
⌖ 11.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania

A charming small town set along the Susquehanna River offering scenic outdoor recreation with a mix of river paddling, forest hiking, and nearby state parks.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Benton
⌖ 11.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Benton, Pennsylvania

A quaint town offering stunning natural landscapes and a gateway to outdoor pursuits in the scenic regions of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Hunlock Creek
⌖ 14.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania

A quiet riverside community offering intimate access to woodland trails, river paddling, and seasonal outdoor escapes amid northeastern Pennsylvania’s rugged landscapes.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Nescopeck State Park

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.