PA Fall Foliage

38 Best PA State Parks for Fall Foliage Lovers

The best Pennsylvania State Parks for fall foliage viewing.

If you’re looking for the best Pennsylvania State Parks for viewing fall foliage in 2024, you’re in the right place!

Horse and rider at Cowans Gap Overlook in Fulton County PA — Horse and rider at Cowans Gap State Park in Fulton County, PA.

Pennsylvania’s state parks are home to some of the most magnificent fall foliage displays anywhere in the United States!

A boater on Greenwood Lake at the height of fall foliage season. — A boater at Greenwood Furnace State Park at the height of fall foliage season.

And while visiting any of the Keystone State’s 124 state parks is bound to be a wonderful experience in October, here are 38 of my favorite PA State Parks for fall foliage viewing.

Hyner View State Park sign in Clinton County.

To make it as easy as possible for you to find each park, I’ve plotted all 38 of them on the interactive map below

Simply click on the blue text links on the map above or in the descriptions below (listed alphabetically) to view a more in-depth article about each park.

The view from the Kinzua Bridge skywalk, looking out over the fall foliage surrounding the debris field. — Fall foliage views at Kinzua Bridge State Park.

1. Bald Eagle State Park

Bald Eagle State Park is a 5,900 acre recreational area in Centre County, approximately 25 miles northeast of State College.

Fall foliage views from the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County, PA.

At the heart of Bald Eagle State Park is 1,730-acre Sayers Lake, built by the the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1969 as part of a flood control project.

Fall foliage around Sayers Lake at Bald Eagle State Park.

Fishing, hiking, and boating are popular October activities at Bald Eagle State Park, in addition to “leaf peeping.”

Hiking the Butterfly Trail at Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County Pennsylvania. — Hiking the Butterfly Trail in October.

2. Black Moshannon State Park

At the heart of Black Moshannon State Park in Centre County lies Black Moshannon Lake, a 250 acre glassy mirror that reflects the brilliant fall foliage that appears here every October.

Fall foliage reflections on the lake at Black Moshannon State Park in Centre County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage reflections on the lake at Black Moshannon State Park.

The 3,400 acre State Park is surrounded by 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest, meaning LOTS of fall foliage viewing opportunities!

Red and gold fall foliage surrounding Black Moshannon Lake.

3. Canoe Creek State Park

Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County is a fantastic area for fall foliage viewing in a historic industrial region.

Fall foliage around the lime kilns at Canoe Creek State Park.

The Limestone Trail is one of the easiest and most popular fall foliage hikes at Canoe Creek State Park.

Fall foliage along the Limestone Trail at Canoe Creek State Park.

This one mile hike leads to the abandoned lime kilns at Canoe Creek State Park, six massive remnants of a once-thriving lime-producing operation that operated here in the early 1900s.

4. Clear Creek State Park

Clear Creek State Park spans 1,901 acres in Jefferson County.

Fall foliage around the picnic pavilions at Clear Creek State Park.

The park occupies a scenic portion of the Clear Creek Valley, a tributary of the nearby Clarion River.

Fall foliage reflections on the lake at Clear Creek State Park. in Jefferson County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage reflections on the lake at Clear Creek State Park.

5. Colonel Denning State Park

Colonel Denning State Park in Cumberland County is a 273 acre wilderness haven that offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

View from behind a wooden bench at Colonel Denning State Park in Cumberland County, PA, overlooking a peaceful lake reflecting the vivid colors of autumn trees. The foliage is a mix of green, yellow, and orange, creating a mirrored image on the water's calm surface on a bright sunny day.

The park serves as a gateway to the 96,000-acre Tuscarora State Forest, which surrounds the park.

A winding creek lined with autumn foliage leads to a serene lake in Colonel Denning State Park, Pennsylvania.

6. Colton Point State Park

Forming the west rim of the PA Grand Canyon, Colton Point State Park is a 368 acre Tioga County attraction offering visitors stunning overlooks of the Pine Creek Gorge.

Fall foliage views from the PA Grand Canyon on October 6 2022. — Fall foliage views from Colton Point State Park in early October.

Most of the overlooks at Colton Point State Park require very little hiking to reach, or feature rather flat trails if hiking is involved.

Looking out over Pine Creek from Colton Point State Park

For those advanced hikers looking for off-trail adventures, you’ll find plenty of waterfalls and fall foliage along Fourmile Run, near the western edge of Colton Point State Park.

Fourmile Run Falls on an autumn afternoon.

7. Cook Forest State Park

Cook Forest State Park covers an 8,500-acre expanse across portions of Clarion, Jefferson, and Forest counties in northwestern PA.

Exploring Cook Forest State Park in northwestern Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage scenes at Cook Forest State Park.

Seneca Point at the park is a rock outcropping that serves as a scenic overlook high above the Clarion River valley.

Fall foliage views for miles at Seneca Point inside Cook Forest State Park in Clarion County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage views for miles at Seneca Point inside Cook Forest State Park.

Located just a short hike from the park office along Route 36, the Swinging Bridge at Cook Forest State Park is one of the most popular attractions at the park.

A hiker crossing the suspension bridge at Cook Forest State Park.

8. Cowans Gap State Park

Cowans Gap State Park is a fantastic 1,085 acre park located in Fulton County (with a small portion extending into neighboring Franklin County as well).

A fisherman at Cowans Gap State Park. — Fall foliage views from a fishing pier at Cowans Gap State Park.

At the heart of the park lies 42-acre Cowans Gap Lake, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the mid 1930’s.

Kayakers and paddleboarders at Cowans Gap State Park.

The park also features 13 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the famed Standing Stone Trail.

The shared section of Knobsville Road Trail and the Standing Stone Trail.

9. Denton Hill State Park

Denton Hill State Park in Potter County is quite possibly the most unique fall foliage destination in all of northcentral PA!

Ski lift at the abandoned Denton Hill State Park ski resort. — The abandoned ski resort at Denton Hill State Park in Potter County.

Last operated in 2014, the abandoned ski resort at the park makes for an eerie yet beautiful setting to view the amazing fall colors there.

Beautiful fall foliage surrounding the abandoned ski lifts at Denton Hill State Park.

And while the ski resort sits idle and decaying, the park is open to visitors.

Fall foliage surrounding the abandoned ski lodge at Denton Hill State Park.

10. Greenwood Furnace State Park

Greenwood Furnace State Park covers 423 acres in northeastern Huntingdon County, and contains the popular 6 acre Greenwood Lake.

A fisherman surrounded by fall foliage at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Huntingdon County.

Those that enjoy fishing flock here year round, but Greenwood Furnace is an especially popular destination in October when the fall foliage is at its peak.

Fall foliage at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Huntingdon County.

11. Hickory Run State Park

Hickory Run State Park is a magnificent 15,990-acre recreational area in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains.

Fireline Trail Vista at HIckory Run State Park. — Fireline Trail Vista at Hickory Run State Park.

Featuring more than 40 miles of hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, unique natural areas, and spectacular scenic overlooks, Hickory Run State Park has a LOT to offer!

Fall foliage around Stametz Dam at Hickory Run State Park.

12. Hills Creek State Park

Hills Creek State Park in Tioga County spans 407 acres of natural splendor and offers a plethora of outdoor activities.

A picturesque autumn scene at Hills Creek State Park in Tioga County, Pennsylvania. In the foreground, a wooden picnic table and a rack holding colorful kayaks rest on a grassy area. One tree with bright orange leaves stands out among the mostly green forest that surrounds the serene lake. The calm water reflects the cloudy sky and the changing foliage, creating a peaceful and inviting outdoor setting.

The park’s crowning jewel is the tranquil 137-acre Hills Creek Lake, ideal for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

A view from the Lakeside Trail at Hills Creek State Park in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, featuring a calm lake surrounded by a forested area. The water's surface gently ripples, reflecting the partly cloudy sky above. The foliage around the lake is a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, with some trees displaying vibrant autumn colors of yellow, orange, and red. Tall grasses and reeds in the foreground suggest a thriving lakeside habitat. The scene is peaceful and typical of the natural landscapes found within the park, offering a moment of tranquility and a connection to nature.

13. Hyner View State Park

The 6 acre Hyner View State Park in Clinton County offers an outstanding view of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River 1,300 feet below!

The stone retaining wall which helps define the overlook at Hyner View was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s.

Civilian Conservation Corps statue at Hyner View State Park.

14. Kettle Creek State Park

The 1,793 acre Kettle Creek State Park was formed as part of a flood control project in Clinton County by the Army Corps of Engineers.

Kettle Creek Vista overlooking Kettle Creek State Park in Clinton County. — Kettle Creek Vista overlooking Kettle Creek State Park in Clinton County

When the Alvin Bush Dam was constructed on Kettle Creek, it created the Kettle Creek Reservoir which is now used for recreational purposes as well as for flood control.

Fall foliage at Alvin Bush Dam at Kettle Creek State Park.

15. Keystone State Park

The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park is a great place for day-trips and fall foliage viewing in Westmoreland County.

Fall foliage around the causeway at Keystone State Park in Westmoreland County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage around the causeway at Keystone State Park.

Featuring a beautiful 78 acre lake as its centerpiece, Keystone State Park provides an ideal setting for camping, wildlife watching, hiking, fishing, and leaf peeping.

Fall foliage at Keystone State Park in October 2022.

Keystone State Park features 8 miles of hiking trails, open year-round for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

The McCune Run Trail is an excellent choice for viewing fall foliage at Keystone State Park in Westmoreland County Pennsylvania. — The McCune Run Trail is an excellent choice for viewing fall foliage at Keystone State Park.

16. Kings Gap Environmental Center

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center consists of 2,531 acres of forest on South Mountain in Cumberland County, with more than 25 miles of hiking trails.

Wooden footbridge over a rocky creek surrounded by the lush green and yellow foliage of autumn in the woods near the Cameron-Masland Mansion.

The terrace off the back of the Cameron-Masland Mansion at Kings Gap serves as a magnificent scenic overlook, especially in October.

A vibrant autumn forest foreground with a panoramic view of Cumberland Valley and distant Blue Mountain range under a clear blue sky.

17. Kinzua Bridge State Park

If you’re unfamiliar with this Kinzua Bridge State Park, the Kinzua Viaduct was once the longest and tallest railway bridge in the entire world.

Kinzua Bridge skywalk as viewed from one of the viewing platforms. — Kinzua Bridge State Park in McKean County.

Partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003, the state repurposed the remaining, still-standing 600 feet of bridge and built the Kinzua Skywalk, which opened in 2011.

View of Kinzua Bridge skywalk from footbridge over Kinzua Creek.

18. Kooser State Park

Kooser Run and man-made Kooser Lake are the highlights of 250 acre Kooser State Park in Somerset County.

Fall foliage at Kooser Lake n Somerset County. — Fall foliage at Kooser Lake in Somerset County.

This park is popular for fishing, cabin rentals, and picnicking most of the year.

Fall foliage at Kooser State Park in Somerset County. — Fishing at Kooser State Park in Somerset County.

Come October, it is also a marvelous spot to view the fall foliage the Laurel Highlands is so famous for.

Leaf peeping at Kooser State Park in October.

19. Laurel Hill State Park

At the heart of the 4,062 acre Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset County lies 63 acre Laurel Hill Lake, one of the best spots to view fall foliage by boat in the entire state.

Kayakers on Laurel Hill Lake at Laurel Hill State Park.

Laurel Hill Creek, which passes through Laurel Hill State Park, is one of the finest trout fishing stream in western Pennsylvania.

Fall foliage along Laurel Hill Creek at Laurel Hill State Park.

The man-made Jones Mill Run Dam is another popular hiking destination for fall foliage viewing at Laurel Hill State Park.

Vibrant fall foliage around Jones Mill Run Dam on October 9th, 2021. — Fall foliage at Jones Mill Run Dam at Laurel Hill State Park near Somerset, Pennsylvania.

20. Laurel Ridge State Park

The 13,625-acre Laurel Ridge State Park spans Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties and is home to the 70 mile-long Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.

Fall foliage views from Laurel Run Overlook along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail on October 16, 2022. — Fall foliage views from Laurel Run Overlook along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.

Laurel Run Overlook is one of the many outstanding fall foliage vistas along the trail, and can be found at GPS coordinates 39.98266, -79.35177, a little over 2 miles north of the Route 653 trailhead.

Fall foliage along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail as it passes through Laurel Ridge State Park in Somerset County.

21. Leonard Harrison State Park

Leonard Harrison State Park in Tioga County forms part of the eastern rim of the PA Grand Canyon.

The PA Grand Canyon in early October as viewed from Leonard Harrison State Park. — The PA Grand Canyon in early October.

Aside from the views of the canyon itself, the most popular activity here is hiking the Turkey Path from the rim of the canyon to Pine Creek some 750 feet below.

Fall foliage around the tallest waterfalls along the Turkey Path.

The Turkey Path passes a series of waterfalls before reaching the banks of Pine Creek at the bottom of the trail.

Pine Creek as viewed from the bottom of the Turkey Path.

22. Linn Run State Park

Linn Run State Park is a 612 acre park in Westmoreland County, popular with hikers, campers, and picnickers.

Linn Run State Park office in Westmoreland County on October 16, 2022. — Linn Run State Park office in Westmoreland County.

There are 6.25 miles of hiking trails at Linn Run State Park, but many of the trails connect to others in the surrounding Forbes State Forest, for even longer hiking options.

Iscrupe Trail at Linn Run State Park in Westmoreland County, PA. — Iscrupe Trail at Linn Run State Park.

23. Lyman Run State Park

Lyman Run State Park is a 595-acre park, located in northern Potter County, just west of the PA Grand Canyon.

A panoramic view of Lyman Run lake and dam at Lyman Run State Park in Potter County, Pennsylvania. — Lyman Run State Park in Potter County.

Lyman Lake Vista is just a 5-minute drive from the park office, and offers fantastic fall foliage views.

Lyman Lake Vista at Lyman Run State Park in Potter County.

24. McCalls Dam State Park

McCalls Dam State Park is an 8 acre park in a remote portion of Centre County.

A tranquil autumn scene at McCalls Dam State Park in Centre County, PA, showcasing a gentle stream flowing through a dense forest of tall evergreen and deciduous trees. The water cascades over a small natural dam made of rocks and branches, creating a peaceful ripple. The surrounding forest floor is adorned with golden ferns and fallen leaves, while the trees are tinged with the warm colors of fall, including rich oranges and yellows. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the foliage and casting reflections on the clear water.

McCalls Dam State Park has a small picnic area along White Deer Creek with a few tables and charcoal grills, but no other modern facilities.

A serene autumn scene at McCalls Dam State Park in Centre County, PA, featuring a wooden picnic table and grill beneath a canopy of trees adorned with vibrant orange and yellow fall foliage. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting a warm glow on the grassy area, while a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees provide a lush backdrop. Fallen leaves lightly cover the ground, adding to the peaceful and inviting atmosphere of this secluded picnic spot.

25. McConnell’s Mill State Park

40 miles north of Pittsburgh you’ll find breathtaking fall foliage at McConnells Mill State Park in Lawrence County.

Downstream view of fall foliage around the spillway next to McConnell's Mill in Lawrence County. — Downstream view of fall foliage around the spillway next to McConnell’s Mill in Lawrence County.

McConnell’s Mill Covered Bridge is a particularly popular spot for “leaf peepers.”

Fall foliage around McConnell's Mill Covered Bridge in Lawrence County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage around McConnell’s Mill Covered Bridge.

Cleland Rock Scenic Vista is another exceptional fall foliage spot here, looking out over the Slippery Rock Gorge, which forms the heart of McConnell’s Mill State Park.

Fall foliage views from Cleland Rock Overlook at McConnell's Mill State Park in Lawrence County Pennsylvania.. — Fall foliage views from Cleland Rock Overlook at McConnell’s Mill State Park.

26. Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park in Fayette County may offer the most extensive and diverse fall foliage viewing opportunities of any state park in Pennsylvania.

Fall foliage views at Ohiopyle Falls on October 16, 2022.

Waterfalls – check.

Fall foliage at Ohiopyle Falls in Fayette County.

Mountain vistas – check.

A sunny autumn afternoon at Baughman Rock Overlook.

Bike trails – check.

Fall foliage around the High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park.

Ohiopyle State Park has a little bit of everything for everyone when it comes to seeing incredible fall foliage the way YOU want to see it!

Fall foliage at Upper Jonathan Run Falls at Ohiopyle State Park.

27. Ole Bull State Park

Ole Bull State Park is a 132-acre Pennsylvania state park in Potter County, named in honor of Ole Bornemann Bull, a famous Norwegian violinist who toured the United States in the 1850s.

Exploring Ole Bull State Park in Potter County PA — Fall foliage scenes at Ole Bull State Park.

Five miles of hiking trails are available at the park, including the Castle Vista Trail, one of the most popular hikes at the park.

Part of the Castle Vista Trail at Ole Bull State Park follows an old logging grade.

28. Parker Dam State Park

Parker Dam State Park is a 968-acre expanse in Clearfield County featuring a tranquil lake, a beach area, scenic vistas, and miles of hiking trails.

Fall foliage reflections off the lake at Parker Dam State Park.

Parker Lake is a 20-acre man made lake in the heart of the park, created by the damming of Laurel Run.

An October afternoon at Parker Dam State Park in Clearfield County Pennsylvania. — An October afternoon at Parker Dam State Park.

There are 13 miles of hiking trails within the boundaries of Parker Dam State Park, but many of these trails continue into the Moshannon State Forest and/or the Quehanna Wild Area.

Fall foliage along a boardwalk at Parker Dam State Park in Clearfield County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage along a boardwalk at Parker Dam State Park in Clearfield County.

29. Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Cumberland County is a 696-acre haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

A wooden dock extends into the tranquil waters of Laurel Lake at Pine Grove Furnace State Park, Cumberland County, PA, surrounded by a vibrant autumn landscape. The forest is ablaze with fall colors ranging from green to yellow, orange, and red. The clear water reveals a rocky lakebed peppered with fallen leaves.

The park is home to not one but two lakes – Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake.

A calm and clear day at Fuller Lake in Pine Grove Furnace State Park, Cumberland County, PA, with vibrant fall foliage reflecting on the glass-like surface of the lake. Trees with yellow and orange leaves edge the water, and a clear blue sky with a few clouds is above. The rocky lakeshore in the foreground adds texture to the peaceful scene.

30. Prince Gallitzin State Park

Prince Gallitzin State Park is a 6,249-acre recreational area in Cambria County.

Exploring Prince Gallitzin State Park in Cambia County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage scenes at Prince Gallitzin State Park.

At the heart of the park you’ll find 1,635-acre Glendale Lake, with 26 miles of shoreline.

Looking down on a portion of Glendale Lake known as Campground Cove at Prince Gallitzin State Park. — Looking down on a portion of Glendale Lake known as Campground Cove.

Hikers will find 32.65 miles of trails at the park, traversing a variety of habitats and provide many different views of the lake.

The breast of the dam at Prince Gallitzin State Park in Cambria County Pennsylvania. — Trail along the breast of the dam at Prince Gallitzin State Park.

31. RB Winter State Park

RB Winter State Park is a 695 acre recreational area located in western Union County.

A perfect fall day for selfies at the RB Winter State Park scenic overlook. — Scenic overlook at RB Winter State Park.

The focal point of the park is Halfway Lake, a seven acre lake which is filled by spring-fed mountain streams.

Fall foliage along the beach at RB Winter State Park in Union County, PA. — Fall foliage along the beach at RB Winter State Park in Union County.

The park is a middle trailhead for central Pennsylvania’s Mid State Trail, which stretches 327 miles from Bedford County in the south to Tioga County in the north.

Fall foliage along the Mid State Trail as it passes through RB WInter State Park. — Fall foliage along the Mid State Trail as it passes through RB Winter State Park.

32. Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park in Luzerne County is without a doubt one of the busiest and best fall foliage viewing destinations in PA.

Tuscarora Falls at RIcketts Glen State Park in PA — Autumn at Tuscarora Falls at Ricketts Glen State Park.

The 4 mile long Falls Trail Loop is challenging but extremely rewarding at the same time.

Mohican Falls at Ricketts Glen State Park.

33. Sand Bridge State Park

Sand Bridge State Park in Union County is famous for being the smallest state park in Pennsylvania.

This 3-acre park is primarily used as a roadside picnic area; the three picnic pavilions there were built by workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.

A quaint wooden bridge over a tranquil stream at Sand Bridge State Park in Union County, Pennsylvania. The bridge is framed by a variety of trees with leaves in shades of yellow, orange, and green, indicating early fall. Fallen leaves are scattered across the bridge and the forest floor, adding to the autumnal feel.

Rapid Run is a stocked trout stream that flows through Sand Bridge State Park, essentially cutting it into two even smaller parcels of land.

A peaceful stream meanders through Sand Bridge State Park in Union County, Pennsylvania, reflecting the clear blue sky above. The banks of the stream are lined with stones and fallen logs, amidst a forest of tall trees exhibiting the full splendor of autumn. Leaves in varying shades of yellow, orange, and red create a colorful canopy overhead, with some leaves floating on the water's surface, enhancing the fall atmosphere of this tranquil setting.

34. Shawnee State Park

Shawnee State Park in Bedford County is highlighted by man-made, 451 acre Shawnee Lake.

Fall foliage reflected off the lake at Shawnee State Park.

Besides offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities, Shawnee Lake creates exceptional reflections of the fall foliage along its banks.

Fall foliage near the fishing pier at Shawnee State Park.

35. Sinnemahoning State Park

Sinnemahoning State Park spans parts of Cameron and Potter counties, and is a fantastic place to check out fall foliage in the heart of PA Elk Country!

Fall foliage around the 40 Maples picnic area at Sinnemahoning State Park on October 12th, 2021. — Fall foliage around the 40 Maples picnic area at Sinnemahoning State Park.

At the heart of the park is the 145-acre George Stevenson Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing, boating, AND leaf peeping.

Fall foliage starting to appear around the Stevenson Dam at Sinnemahoning State Park on October 12th, 2021.

36. Trough Creek State Park

Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County offers miles of trails with some phenomenal scenic overlooks, like this one along the Ledges Trail.

Fall foliage at the Ledges Trail Overlook at Trough Creek State Park.

When the weather cooperates and we have rain during the fall foliage season, few waterfalls in PA can match Rainbow Falls at Trough Creek for sheer natural beauty!

Fall foliage at Rainbow Falls in Pennsylvania — Fall foliage at Rainbow Falls at Trough Creek State Park.

Trough Creek State Park is adjacent to 8,300 acre Raystown Lake, the largest lake that lies entirely within Pennsylvania.

Fall foliage views from Hawn's Overlook in Huntingdon County PA. — Fall foliage views from Hawn’s Overlook above Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County.

There are numerous vantage points to view the fall foliage surrounding the lake – you’ll find directions to 4 of the best one HERE.

Fall foliage at Raystown Dam near Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County. — Fall foliage at Raystown Lake near Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County.

37. Worlds End State Park

Worlds End State Park is a 780 acre oasis in the heart of Sullivan County.

High Rock Overlook at Worlds End State Park.

Home to numerous waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and miles of trails, Worlds End State Park is one of my absolute favorite state parks in all of Pennsylvania!

Fall foliage at Cottonwood Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.

The park’s Visitors Center is a wealth of information and home to a small museum.

The visitor center and park office at Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County, PA, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. The building features rustic stone and wood construction, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. An American flag and a Pennsylvania state flag fly on poles near the entrance, while colorful autumn leaves create a picturesque backdrop of reds, yellows, and oranges against the clear blue sky. The well-maintained grounds and welcoming structure invite visitors to explore the park during the peak of the fall season.

Loyalsock Creek is the main artery flowing through the heart of of Worlds End State Park.

A picturesque autumn landscape at Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County, PA, featuring Loyalsock Creek flowing briskly over rocks and pebbles. The creek is flanked by a hillside blanketed in vibrant fall foliage, with a mix of golden yellows, deep oranges, and patches of green. The sky above is bright blue with a few scattered clouds, adding to the crisp, clear atmosphere of the scene. The natural beauty of the season is on full display, with the colorful trees reflecting the essence of fall in this tranquil setting.

The surrounding Loyalsock State Forest is home to numerous scenic overlooks, the most famous being High Knob Overlook, another excellent (and roadside) fall foliage viewing area.

The High Knob Trailhead at High Knob Overlook in the Loyalsock State Forest.

38. Yellow Creek State Park

Yellow Creek State Park in Indiana County features 2,981 acres of pristine beauty and endless outdoor recreation.

A serene autumnal scene at Yellow Creek State Park in Indiana County, Pennsylvania. The image captures a wooden dock overlooking Dragonfly Pond, with the calm waters reflecting the vibrant fall foliage. The trees display a palette of warm colors ranging from yellow to orange and red, contrasting against the evergreens. The sky is overcast with dynamic cloud formations, and the peacefulness of the scene is palpable.

At the heart of the park lies the 720-acre Yellow Creek Lake, a destination for boaters, anglers, and swimmers.

A floating dock at Yellow Creek State Park in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, with two pontoon boats moored to it. One of the boats is equipped with a canopy and appears ready for use, while the other is partially covered with a tarp, possibly for maintenance. The water is calm with a scattering of lily pads, reflecting the cloudy sky. The background showcases a vibrant display of autumn foliage with trees in shades of yellow, orange, and red. A label on the boats indicates they are property of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) of Pennsylvania.

The park is named for the Yellow and Little Yellow creeks, which flow into the lake and are characterized by the yellow clay on their banks and bottoms.

A picturesque autumn view at Yellow Creek State Park in Indiana County, Pennsylvania. It features a tree with striking red leaves on the shore of Yellow Creek Lake, its branches reaching out over the tranquil water. The lake reflects the cloudy sky and the surrounding foliage, with colors ranging from green to vibrant reds and oranges. A rocky shoreline anchors the scene in the foreground.

So there you have it – 38 PA state parks where you can experience breathtaking fall foliage in 2024!

Fall foliage around the spillway at Parker Dam State Park in Clearfield County Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage around the spillway at Parker Dam State Park.

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A color-coded map depicting 2024 peak fall foliage predictions in Pennsylvania, based upon DCNR fall foliage data from 2017 through 2023. — 2024 peak fall foliage predictions map for Pennsylvania.

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