PA State Parks

Exploring Chapman State Park in Warren County

A collage of four photos showcasing Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The top-left image features a fisherman by the calm waters of Chapman Lake, surrounded by colorful fall foliage and a view of the dam in the background. The top-right image shows a wooden swinging bridge spanning a peaceful stream, inviting hikers into a forest of autumn-colored trees. The bottom-left image captures a tranquil lakeside beach with a bench facing the scenic view of Chapman Lake, framed by vibrant fall trees and a cloudy sky. The bottom-right image highlights the exposed roots of a large tree along the shoreline of Chapman Lake, with the reflection of the sky and trees mirrored perfectly on the water’s surface. The collage beautifully represents the serenity and natural beauty of the park during the autumn season.

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

A view of the dam at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, where water gently cascades over the concrete steps, forming Chapman Lake. The still lake reflects the bright autumn foliage of the surrounding trees, which display a mix of green, red, yellow, and orange leaves. The blue sky, scattered with puffy white clouds, adds to the peaceful and scenic atmosphere. The dam structure contrasts with the natural beauty of the lake and the vibrant colors of the fall landscape.

Chapman State Park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and 862 acres of scenic beauty in the foothills of the Allegheny National Forest, close to historic Route 6.

A scenic view of Chapman Lake at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, showcasing a row of canoes and small boats neatly lined up along the gravel shoreline. The calm water reflects the surrounding hills covered in autumn foliage, with shades of red, orange, and yellow blending with the green trees. The clear blue sky, dotted with clouds, adds to the peaceful atmosphere, while the distant hills provide a picturesque backdrop for the tranquil lake scene.

Chapman State Park, opened in 1951, is named in honor of Dr. Leroy E. Chapman, a long-serving Pennsylvania state senator from Warren County.

Directions to Chapman State Park

Chapman State Park is located at 4790 Chapman Dam Road, Clarendon, PA 16313.

To view/download/print the park’s official trail map, CLICK HERE.

A small wooden footbridge along the Nature Trail at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The bridge, covered in fallen autumn leaves, crosses a shallow stream in a peaceful forest setting. Tall trees with a mix of green and yellow foliage surround the trail, and the forest floor is dotted with colorful leaves, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The narrow, winding path leading away from the bridge invites hikers deeper into the tranquil woodland.

What You’ll See at Chapman State Park

One of the park’s most popular features is 68-acre Chapman Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating and kayaking across its 68-acre expanse.

A tranquil view of Chapman Lake at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, with the roots of a large tree extending toward the water's edge in the foreground. The lake is calm, reflecting the blue sky and clouds as well as the surrounding autumn-colored trees. The mix of green, orange, and yellow foliage frames the peaceful scene, while the hills in the distance rise gently above the treeline. The serenity of the lake and the vibrant colors of fall make this spot an idyllic natural retreat.

Fishing is also a favorite activity, with anglers casting lines both in Chapman Lake and the West Branch Tionesta Creek, hoping to catch bass, trout, or sunfish.

A peaceful autumn scene at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, showing a fisherman standing on the grassy shore of Chapman Lake. The angler, dressed in outdoor gear, is focused on his fishing line, with a folding chair set up nearby. The lake reflects the vibrant fall foliage of the surrounding trees, including shades of orange, yellow, and green. In the background, the dam structure that forms Chapman Lake is visible, blending into the natural beauty of the landscape. The cloudy sky adds a calm, overcast atmosphere to the serene setting.

For those who enjoy swimming, the sandy beach along the lake offers a refreshing place to cool off in the summer months.

A peaceful lakeside scene at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, featuring a sandy beach along the shoreline of Chapman Lake. A single bench faces the calm water, reflecting the vibrant autumn foliage of trees surrounding the lake. The sky is dotted with dramatic clouds, enhancing the serene atmosphere. The park's natural beauty is on full display with the mix of colorful fall leaves, grassy areas, and the tranquil waters of the lake.

Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with trails winding through the park and connecting to the nearby Allegheny National Forest, providing stunning views of the area’s natural beauty.

A wooden sign marking the entrance to the Penny Run Trail at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The sign provides information about the trail's construction in 1990 by the Sheffield Ranger District, Federal Correction Institution-McKean, and Chapman State Park personnel. Behind the sign, a wooden footbridge leads into a lush, green forest with trees displaying early signs of autumn foliage. A smaller sign below the trail marker provides a reminder about tick prevention, adding to the information for visitors. The scene is welcoming, offering a glimpse into the serene beauty of the park's hiking trails.

The Lowlands Trail, which features a recently-reopened swinging bridge across the mouth of the West Branch Tionesta Creek, is a must-see for any visitor.

A side view of a wooden swinging bridge at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The bridge, supported by cables and wooden beams, spans a small stream surrounded by trees showing vibrant autumn colors. The wooden pathway, with stairs leading up to the bridge, invites visitors to cross and explore the natural beauty on the other side. The blue sky and scattered clouds above enhance the scenic backdrop, while the surrounding foliage creates a peaceful and picturesque setting for an outdoor adventure.

The wooden suspension bridge provides stunning views of the surrounding forest and creek, especially during the fall season.

A visitor crossing a wooden swinging bridge at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The bridge is suspended by cables and leads over a calm stream surrounded by trees displaying vibrant autumn foliage. The visitor, dressed in a red jacket and blue cap, walks along the bridge toward the forest on the other side. The bright blue sky and sunshine add to the peaceful atmosphere, while the trees' colors reflect the beauty of the fall season in the park. The scene captures a sense of adventure and tranquility amidst nature.

This restored feature enhances the park’s hiking experience, connecting trails on the north and south sides of Chapman Lake and adding a unique point of interest for those exploring the area.

A view from the top of a wooden swinging bridge along the Lowlands Trail at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The bridge, framed by wooden railings, spans a tranquil stream surrounded by thick vegetation and autumn trees displaying bright shades of green, orange, and yellow. The reflection of the sky and clouds in the water adds to the serene atmosphere. The blue sky with billowing clouds provides a striking backdrop to the scenic trail, inviting visitors to continue exploring the peaceful natural landscape on the other side.

Picnicking is another popular pastime, with well-maintained pavilions and picnic areas scattered throughout the park, perfect for a relaxing lunch amidst the vibrant fall foliage.

A large wooden picnic pavilion at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, featuring several picnic tables and a stone fireplace in the center. The pavilion is surrounded by tall trees displaying vibrant fall colors, with shades of yellow, orange, and green. The grassy area around the pavilion provides ample space for outdoor activities, and a charcoal grill is visible next to the pavilion. The structure offers a cozy, sheltered spot for gatherings, blending beautifully with the natural surroundings of the park.

If you’re planning an overnight stay, the park offers a range of accommodations, including cozy yurts and rustic cabins nestled in the forest.

A cozy yurt nestled in the campground at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The yurt, with a tan roof and teal walls, sits on a wooden deck surrounded by trees showcasing vibrant autumn colors. A small set of stairs leads up to the deck, which is equipped with a picnic table, providing a perfect spot for outdoor dining or relaxing in nature. The peaceful forest setting and colorful foliage make this yurt a charming and inviting retreat for campers enjoying the beauty of the park in the fall season.

Camping under the stars, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature, is a wonderful way to experience all that Chapman State Park has to offer.

A cozy wooden cabin nestled among tall trees in the campground at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA. The cabin features a covered front porch with a picnic table, and a fire ring nearby, providing a perfect spot for outdoor meals or relaxing by the fire. Surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, the cabin offers a peaceful retreat in a natural forest setting, with a concrete pad in front for easy access. The sunlight filters through the trees, adding warmth to the serene woodland atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re spending a day or a weekend, Chapman State Park is an ideal destination for outdoor lovers of all kinds.

A serene autumn scene at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, featuring a walkway leading to a wooden fishing pier on the edge of Chapman Lake. The lake is calm and reflects the vibrant fall colors of the surrounding trees, including shades of orange, red, and yellow. A picnic table sits beneath a tree with changing leaves, offering a peaceful spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the view. The blue sky and scattered clouds enhance the natural beauty of the scene, while the distant hills provide a picturesque backdrop.

The park’s variety of activities for all ages, from boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking, ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A playground at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, featuring tan-colored slides and climbing structures surrounded by a bed of wood chips for safety. The playground is set in a grassy field with trees displaying vibrant autumn colors in the background, including shades of red, orange, and yellow. The bright blue sky adds to the cheerful atmosphere, making the playground an inviting spot for families and children to enjoy. The surrounding open space and distant trees provide a picturesque setting for outdoor recreation.

With its beautiful natural surroundings and plentiful amenities, Chapman State Park in Warren County is a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

A scenic view of Chapman Lake at Chapman State Park in Warren County, PA, with the calm water reflecting the blue sky, fluffy white clouds, and vibrant autumn foliage from the surrounding trees. The shoreline is lined with tall grasses and shrubs, adding to the natural beauty of the landscape. In the distance, rolling hills covered in fall colors of orange, yellow, and green provide a picturesque backdrop. The peacefulness of the lake and the bright sky create an inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy the serenity of the park.

Nearby Attractions

Washington Park Overlook in Warren County features breathtaking views of the Allegheny River and the city of Warren, from hundreds of feet above the city.

A collage of four images showcasing different aspects of Washington Park Overlook in Warren County, Pennsylvania. The top left image features a wide view of the city of Warren with the Allegheny River winding through it, surrounded by forested hills. The top right image shows a closer view of the river, highlighting the vibrant autumn colors and buildings along the riverbank. The bottom left image captures the Washington Park entrance sign, set among tall trees with early fall foliage. The bottom right image provides another expansive view of the river, bridges, and industrial structures, framed by the scenic hills in the background. The collage illustrates the park's blend of natural beauty and urban surroundings.

Rimrock Overlook in Warren County offers visitors outstanding views of Kinzua Bay and the Allegheny National Forest which surrounds it.

Looking north over the Allegheny Reservoir from Rimrock Overlook in Warren County.

Jakes Rocks Overlook in Warren County is actually a series of overlooks, located in the Allegheny National Forest and just a few miles west of Rimrock Overlook.

Jakes Rocks Overlook in the Allegheny National Forest.

Kinzua Beach in Warren County stretches roughly 450 feet along the banks of the Allegheny Reservoir, providing a serene and scenic spot for a day of relaxation and recreation.

A collage of four photos taken at Kinzua Beach in Warren County, Pennsylvania, depicting various highlights of the area. The top left image shows the sandy beach along the Allegheny Reservoir with a green steel bridge in the background, where beachgoers are relaxing near the water. The top right image features the modern restroom and changing facility surrounded by lush greenery and a well-maintained lawn. The bottom left image captures a peaceful view of the Allegheny Reservoir framed by dense vegetation, with rolling hills in the distance under a partly cloudy sky. The bottom right image displays the entrance sign for Kinzua Beach Recreation Area in the Allegheny National Forest, maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, set against a backdrop of trees and greenery. The collage showcases the natural beauty and amenities of Kinzua Beach.

Tidioute Overlook in Warren County features a pair of easy-to-reach vistas offering views of the Allegheny River and the quaint town of Tidioute.

A collage of four photos taken at Tidioute Overlook in Warren County, Pennsylvania, within the Allegheny National Forest. The top left image features a scenic view of the Allegheny River, surrounded by lush green forested hills. The top right image shows the town of Tidioute nestled in a valley, with houses and farmland surrounded by rolling hills. The bottom left image captures the entrance sign to the Allegheny National Forest's picnic ground and overlook, with a peaceful road leading into the dense forest. The bottom right image provides a close-up of the Allegheny River winding through the verdant landscape, highlighting the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

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.