Exploring Bendigo State Park in Elk County

A collage of four scenic photos taken at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows the Bendigo Canoe Launch along the East Branch Clarion River, with a sign providing directions for paddlers. The top right image captures the peaceful river flowing through the park, with a stone observation platform overlooking the water and colorful autumn trees lining the banks. The bottom left photo features the Eagle Trail, a serene forest path covered in fallen leaves, surrounded by tall trees with early fall foliage. The bottom right image displays the Bendigo State Park entrance sign, set in a wooded area with a forest floor blanketed by leaves, welcoming visitors to the park.

If you’re looking for information about visiting Bendigo State Park in Elk County, you’re in the right place!

A peaceful seating area with a wooden bench overlooks the calm waters of the East Branch Clarion River at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The viewpoint is surrounded by lush greenery and trees showcasing the early signs of autumn, creating a tranquil atmosphere. A wooden fence lines the riverbank, enhancing the scenic beauty of the area, while the blue sky with scattered clouds adds to the serene outdoor experience for visitors.

Bendigo State Park, spanning 100 acres along the East Branch Clarion River, is a favorite destination for families and adventurers alike.

A scenic view of the East Branch Clarion River at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, during October. The river flows gently through the landscape, flanked by trees adorned with vibrant fall colors, ranging from deep greens to oranges and reds. Large clouds hover in the sky, casting a moody contrast to the warm autumn tones. Fallen branches and rocks line the riverbank, enhancing the natural, untamed beauty of the scene. The peaceful flow of the water and the colorful foliage make this a tranquil spot for visitors to enjoy the splendor of the fall season.

Opened in 1959, Bendigo State Park continues to attract visitors with its peaceful ambiance and recreational opportunities.

A volleyball court at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, is set in a grassy clearing surrounded by trees displaying the vibrant colors of autumn. The court is framed by tall, leafy trees, with picnic tables nearby for visitors to enjoy outdoor meals and relaxation. The surrounding landscape is a mix of red, orange, and green foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for recreation. The well-maintained court and scenic setting make this a perfect spot for families and groups to play volleyball while taking in the beauty of the park during the fall season.

Directions to Bendigo State Park

Bendigo State Park is located at State Park Road, Wilcox, PA 15870.


What You’ll See at Bendigo State Park

One of the highlights of Bendigo State Park is the large swimming pool, which is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

An empty swimming pool at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, sits under a cloudy autumn sky. The light blue pool is surrounded by a spacious concrete deck, with wooden benches placed around the perimeter. In the background, a rustic brown bathhouse blends with the surrounding trees, which display early signs of fall foliage. The nearby forested hills add to the natural beauty of the setting, while the quiet scene highlights the seasonal closure of the pool, which operates from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

Surrounded by picnic tables and pavilions, the park is an ideal spot for a family outing, with plenty of space for outdoor dining and relaxation.

A quiet picnic area at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, featuring several picnic tables scattered under large trees with golden autumn leaves. The grassy ground is covered with a blanket of fallen leaves, adding to the seasonal charm of the scene. A charcoal grill is nearby, making this an ideal spot for a family gathering or outdoor meal. In the background, a basketball hoop can be seen near the road, offering additional recreational opportunities for visitors. The surrounding hills are dotted with colorful foliage, enhancing the beauty of the park in the fall.

Several trails wind through the park’s lush forest, offering hikers and nature lovers a chance to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings.

A peaceful forest trail covered in fallen leaves winds through a dense woodland at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. A small sign marks the path as the "Eagle Trail," inviting hikers to explore the natural beauty of the area. Tall trees, some with early autumn colors, create a canopy overhead, while ferns and other greenery line the forest floor, adding to the tranquil and scenic atmosphere of the hiking experience. The trail extends into the distance, offering a serene escape for nature lovers.

The East Branch Clarion River flows gently through the park, providing not only scenic views but also great fishing opportunities, a popular pastime here.

A beautiful autumn scene along the East Branch Clarion River at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The river flows gently through the park, surrounded by lush trees showcasing vibrant fall foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and green. The hillside beyond the river is blanketed in colorful leaves, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape. The mix of evergreen trees and deciduous trees creates a rich tapestry of colors, while the calm river reflects the surrounding forest. The peaceful setting offers visitors a tranquil space to enjoy the changing seasons.

For paddlers, the canoe launch allows easy access to the river, making it a perfect spot for kayaking or canoeing.

A canoe launch area at Bendigo State Park sits beside the East Branch Clarion River in Elk County, Pennsylvania. A sign marking the "Bendigo Canoe Launch" provides information for paddlers, indicating the last take-out before a mill downstream. The calm river is lined with trees, showing off vibrant fall colors, and the sky is filled with dramatic clouds, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors enjoying the outdoor recreation. A pair of paddles is propped against the sign, highlighting the area’s appeal for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts.

Kids can enjoy the playground, while sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the volleyball court, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A playground at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, is surrounded by trees adorned with vibrant red and orange autumn leaves. The playground features colorful equipment, including slides and climbing structures, set on a soft mulch base. Nearby, a paved walking path leads through the well-maintained grassy area. The bright fall foliage adds to the inviting atmosphere, making it an enjoyable space for families visiting the park. In the background, picnic tables and a parking area can be seen, providing additional amenities for park-goers. The hills behind the park showcase the seasonal beauty of the region.

The park’s wooded landscape is particularly beautiful in the fall, when the trees burst into vibrant colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors.

A scenic forest trail at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, is covered with fallen leaves, offering a peaceful path through towering trees. The lush greenery of the forest is punctuated by the early signs of autumn as vibrant yellow and orange leaves begin to dot the landscape. The dense tree canopy filters sunlight, creating dappled light on the trail, which invites hikers to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of nature during the fall season. The path extends into the distance, providing a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to the river activities, the picnic areas provide charcoal grills, making it convenient for those who want to cook up a meal after a day of exploring.

A peaceful riverside picnic area at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, featuring a wooden picnic table and a charcoal grill. The area is shaded by tall trees with autumn leaves, offering a quiet, scenic spot for outdoor meals. The East Branch Clarion River flows gently in the background, surrounded by colorful fall foliage on the hills. The natural beauty of the river and forested landscape creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a relaxing picnic while taking in the seasonal colors of the park.

The park also offers horseshoe pits and plenty of open space for games or simply enjoying the peaceful environment.

A peaceful picnic pavilion stands in a grassy clearing surrounded by vibrant fall foliage at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The pavilion, equipped with picnic tables, is nestled among tall trees with a backdrop of wooded hills, creating a serene spot for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the park during the autumn season. Additional picnic tables and grills are scattered nearby, enhancing the inviting setting for outdoor gatherings.

Whether you’re there for the water, the woods, or just some quality family time, Bendigo State Park delivers.

A picturesque view of the East Branch Clarion River at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania, during October. A stone observation platform with wooden benches provides a scenic overlook of the river, which flows calmly through the park. The surrounding trees, adorned with the vibrant colors of fall, add to the beauty of the scene. The grassy riverbank and dense forested hills in the background create a peaceful and inviting setting for visitors to enjoy the natural splendor of the park. Dark clouds in the sky contrast with the warm autumn tones, enhancing the drama of the landscape.

Final Thoughts

Bendigo State Park is a hidden gem in Elk County that provides a perfect escape for outdoor fun and relaxation.

A wooden entrance sign for Bendigo State Park stands amidst a forested area in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The sign, bordered in yellow, features the Pennsylvania DCNR State Parks logo and provides directional information for visitors. Fallen leaves and ferns cover the ground, reflecting the park's natural, wooded setting. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting shadows on the sign and creating a welcoming atmosphere for those entering the park to enjoy its various outdoor recreational activities.

With its variety of activities and stunning natural setting, it’s no wonder this park has been a beloved destination since 1959.

A scenic view of the East Branch Clarion River at Bendigo State Park in Elk County, Pennsylvania. The river flows gently through a lush landscape of trees showing vibrant fall colors. A wooden observation deck stands along the grassy riverbank, offering visitors a perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the park. The calm water reflects the colorful foliage, while the cloudy sky adds contrast to the warm autumn tones. This peaceful riverside scene showcases the park's serene atmosphere and its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nearby Attractions

12 Must-See Attractions in Elk County is your guide to even more great things to see and do near Bendigo State Park.

The Best Things to See and Do in Elk County PA.

Find even more great destinations to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!


Did you enjoy this article?

If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!

Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.


Love the Logo? Get the Stickers!

Grab a FREE pair of stickers (one white and one holographic) featuring the famous PABucketlist.com Sasquatch logo on them.

A photo showing the free stickers offered by PA Bucket List featuring the website logo on either a white or hologram background.

Just send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address above, and I’ll mail them out to you right away!


PA Bucket List 2022 Sasquatch Logo

Pennsylvania’s Best Travel Blog!

Rusty Glessner
Rusty Glessner is a professional photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and a frequently-cited authority on PA's best travel destinations.