Clear Creek State Park

Opened in 1922, Clear Creek State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most popular public recreational spaces. Nestled within the stunning Allegheny National Forest, between the picturesque Clarion River and the scenic creek from which it gets its name, this 1,901 acre park provides year round outdoor leisure activities. This includes the likes of kayaking and canoeing, as well as hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, picnicking and hunting. While in the winter cross country skiing is regularly practiced too. Located in Sigel, at just under a 2 hour driving distance from Pittsburgh, and just over 2 hours and 15 minutes from Akron, the park is a favored day trip destination from both cities. In addition, many families choose to come here for their annual holidays, with the onsite campground providing plenty of accommodation options for RVs, trailers and tent campers.

Activities

Visitors to this Pennsylvania state park can partake in a wide range of recreational outdoor pursuits during their time at Clear Creek State Park. Outlined below is just a tiny selection of some of the many activities you can see and do while you are there.

Boating at Clear Creek State Park

If you are into kayaking or canoeing, the park offers fantastic opportunities to enjoy this pastime at the picturesque Clear Creek. Alternatively, if you are a more seasoned practitioner you could also tackle the Class 1 rapids on the Clarion River. To do either, you will need to have a valid permit or registration documentation prior to hitting the water. While on it, be sure to wear your lifejacket at all times too.

Swimming at Clear Creek State Park

The summers can get pretty hot in Pennsylvania, so when the temperature rises within the park, a good place to head to is its 180 foot beach. Here, from the months of May to mid-September, you will be able to swim in a specially designated area. If you do, you’ll need to exercise caution as this area is not lifeguarded. But as the sun beats down, you’ll love the feeling of the cooling water on your skin.

Fishing at Clear Creek State Park

Fishing is a popular activity at the park, attracting anglers from all over the state. For those who want to cast a line, you can either do this at the Clarion River and Clear Creek. The river is stocked with panfish and other warm water game fish, while the creek is seasonally filled with trout. To fish in either waters, you will need to have a relevant fishing Pennsylvania licence. Should you take to the water in a kayak or other watercraft, you will also need a relevant boat licence too.

Hiking at Clear Creek State Park

For those who enjoy hiking there are more than 20 miles of trails throughout the park for you to enjoy. Varying in length and degrees of difficulty, these trails showcase the park’s outstanding natural beauty. When attempting any of these trails, be sure to wear a good pair of hiking boots and also take plenty of water with you.

Picnicking at Clear Creek State Park

Whilst at the park many families take the opportunity to enjoy picnics within the beautiful surroundings. There are several tables located throughout it, most of which have grills and are near vault toilets. In addition, there are also five pavilions available, all of which have covered tables and barbecue pits and can accommodate more than 48 people. A couple of these are ADA accessible.

Cross-Country Skiing at Clear Creek State Park

During the winter, when the snow comes, many of the trails at the park become perfect for cross country skiing. If this is something you are interested in doing, the Saw Mill Trail is one of the most popular courses to traverse. Just be sure to dress up warm and be mindful of how long you spend outside.

Hunting at Clear Creek State Park

During the hunting seasons, around 1000 acres of space is set aside for this pastime within the park. Some of the common game species you can hunt or trap here include white-tail deer, turkey, rabbits, squirrel, and even bears. As the park resides in the Allegheny National Forest, you will also find lots more hunting space there.

Pets at Clear Creek State Park

You are welcome to bring your pooch with you to the park, however, some restrictions may apply. To find out what they are, it is a good idea to contact the park’s main office for further clarification.

Camping at Clear Creek State Park

Overall the park offers 52 campsites for RVs, trailers and tents which are located across two different campgrounds. One of which is completely pet-friendly. Of these sites, 41 of them come with hookups for electricity and water, while the remainder are primitive. Each of these sites come with picnic tables and grills. Other amenities include comfort stations with flush toilets and showers, as well as an RV sanitation dump. As well as these campsites, the park also has 22 rustic cabins dotted along the Clarion River, which are available for you to book. These cabins can sleep between four and eight people, and a couple of them are ADA accessible. All of them are furnished with a kitchen that has a microwave and a refrigerator. As well as gas heating and bedrooms with mattresses – although you will have to bring your own bedding with you. If you would prefer, you could also stay at one of the two yurts that reside in the park. Providing a unique accommodation experience, they are based right on the river and also feature bedrooms, a kitchen and heating.

Park Location

Clear Creek State Park 38 Clear Creek, Park Rd Sigel, PA 15860 Phone: 814.752.2368 Website Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Clear Creek State Park:

Explore More Pennsylvania State Parks

Clear Creek State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Pennsylvania. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Pennsylvania guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

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