It's still summer, and it's still not too late to take advantage of the beautiful, warm, and sunny weather we've been experiencing here for the past couple weeks in State College. And thankfully for us, State College is surrounded by beautiful forests, lakes, and ridges that are just waiting to be explored.
So without a further ado, here is a list of places are that sure to take your breath away before you see your own breath!
Location 1: Black Moshannon State Park
Why is this park on the list? If you are really feeling adventurous and wish to get yourself off the grid for a couple hours, this 3,394 acre of wetlands and forests is for you. Black Moshannon offers endless outdoor activities for even the wildest outdoorsman. Just some of the activities include mountain biking, hunting, fishing, boating, tenting, and swimming. The park also provides 250 picnic tables in case you are just looking to relax and take in the spectacular view! The entire park is surrounded by over 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest, so don't even think about bringing your phone to this place (unless it is to take pictures)!
Where is it? Black Moshannon is northwest of Centre County, approximately 17 miles from State College.
Where can I find more information about this park?
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/b...
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g534...
Location 2: Bald Eagle State Park
Why is this park on the list? Looking to go to the beach but not trying to drive 3 hours to get there? Well, this is the spot for you. With a 1,200-foot long sand beach, this park allows you to bring out your bathing suit, towel, and sunscreen once last time. Swimming is allowed between Memorial Day to Labor Day (weather permitting), so make sure if you decide to visit you don't jump in the water. If that doesn't appeal to you, there's still endless things to do along this 8-mile beach shoreline. There are 14.5 miles of hiking trails you can choose from (distances ranging from half a mile up to 4.4 miles). You can also go boating (they even allow motorized boats), hunting, or picnicking with your friends. You even make a reservation to camp out and spend the night there!
Where is it? Bald Eagle is northeast of Centre County, approximately 27 miles from State College.
Where can I find more information about this park?
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/b...
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g528...
Location 3: Greenwood Furnace State Park
Where is it? Greenwood Furnace is located on the western side of the Seven Mountains in northeastern Huntington County, approximately 20 miles from State College.
Where can I find more information about this park?
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/g...
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g528...
Location 4: Whipple Dam State Park
Why is this park on the list? This 256-acre State Park not only has countless miles of hiking trails through forest but also a 300-foot sand beach to relax on that overlooks a beautiful lake. While it is still warm, you can go boating, fishing, and even swimming in the lake! Also, the park provides three large picnic pavilions which are perfect for an afternoon lunch with friends or a new, more relaxing study spot!
Where is it? Whipple Dam is in the northeastern corner of Huntingdon County, approximately twelve miles south of State College.
Where can I find more information about this park? http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/w...
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g528...
So what are you waiting for? Get outdoors and get a last glimpse of summer nature before you have to whip out that coat for the rest of the school year!
