Evening clouds over the shore of Lake Marburg, Codorus State Park

Nestled in the picturesque rolling hillsides of York County in Pennsylvania, Codorus State Park has been attracting visitors in their droves since 1970.

Boasting over 3,500 acres of dense forest, lush wetlands and verdant fields that are rich in bird and wildlife, the park dates back to well before European settlers discovered the area. Around the time when Susquehannock Indians called this stunning landscape home.

Today the park is renowned for its excellent boating and fishing, which takes place at either Codorus Creek and Lake Marburg. The latter of which boasts 26 spectacular miles of shoreline.

Hiking, biking and picnicking and camping are popular activities here too. While in the winter, when the snow hits, it provides prime conditions for the likes of cross country skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, ice skating and ice fishing.

Activities

During your time at this Pennsylvania state park there are plenty of outdoor pursuits you can partake in.

Below is just a small selection of some of the recreational activities the park is well known for.

Boating at Codorus State Park

If you love nothing more than to get out onto the water on a boat, then you’ll love the fact that there are seven different launch ramps dotted around the lake.

Please note, these ramps can only be used by registered campers. Also should you want to use your boat, you will have to ensure it is less than a 20 horsepower motor.

Kayaks, canoes and paddleboats can all be rented out at the park if you didn’t bring any with you.

Swimming at Codorus State Park

Unfortunately swimming is not allowed in the lake. However, if you want to go for a cooling dip whilst you are at the park you will be able to do so in the onsite swimming pool.

Situated on a bluff that lies above Lake Marburg, you will have to pay a fee to use the pool, and its adjacent playground.

However, if you do this, there is also a lovely snack bar that offers both hot and cold food and drinks.

Fishing at Codorus State Park

The picturesque Lake Marburg is a wonderful place to fish, attracting anglers from all over the state.

If you would like to cast a line in its shimmering water you will need a current state fishing license. Although if you have one you should be able to snare plenty of crappie, bluegill, northern pike and yellow perch.

Should you catch any bass, you will only be able to legally keep them if they exceed 15 inches in length.

Hiking at Codorus State Park

Be sure to bring your hiking boots with you as there are more than 19 miles of trails in the park for you to explore on foot.

Most of these trails are multi-use, although there are two trails specifically designated for hikers only.

These trails are:

  • trail 1 – Laho Trail. Length: 1.7 mile Degree of Difficulty: easy
  • trail 2 – Mary Ann Furnace Trail. Length: 3 miles Degree of Difficulty: moderately difficult

Biking at Codorus State Park

For those into mountain biking the park features 6.5 miles of trails, within a designated 195-acre mountain biking area, near the park’s northern shoreline.

These trails provide splendid views as you crisscross through forests and also climb short hills. If you are planning to ride them during hunting season, be sure to wear fluorescent orange for a greater level of safety.

Picnicking at Codorus State Park

For those who want to enjoy a relaxing picnic during their time in the park, there are three main designated areas where you can do this.

One is situated near the swimming area, while you will find another at the Marina Day-Use Area. A third is situated at the main Launch Day-Use Area.

At each of these areas you’ll find picnic tables, grills and restrooms.

If you plan to be part of a large group, you can reserve one of two picnic pavilions, situated in the swimming area. This can be done up to 11 months in advance.

Winter Activities at Codorus State Park

During the winter the park offers a wide range of recreational activities that are based around the snow.

This includes ice fishing and ice skating on the lake, as well as sledding, snowmobiling and cross country skiing.

Birding & Wildlife at Codorus State Park

Codorus State Park’s diverse landscape of fields, forests, wetlands, and of course the beautiful lake provide an spectacular backdrop in which to spot a wide range of bird and wildlife.

This includes the likes of white-tailed deer, swallows, turtles, sparrows, ruddy ducks, scaups, mergansers and bluebirds to name but a few.

Pets at Codorus State Park

Pets welcome at the park, although some restrictions may apply.

To clarify what they are it is worth contacting the park’s main head office for further details.

Camping at Codorus State Park

For those looking for overnight accommodation, the seasonally operated Codorus Campground offers over 190 campsites.

Providing several sites for RVs under 50 feet in length, as well as tents, many of them have electric hookups.

Amenities at this campground include comfort stations with flushing toilets and warm showers. You’ll also find a dump station and a play area which kids ought to love.

As an alternative accommodation option, the park offers three cottages and two yurts.

Both of these ADA accessible options can sleep up to five people and come with electric heating. In addition, the yurts also feature a cooking stove, refrigerator, countertops and table and chairs.

Park Location

Codorus State Park
Marina Drive,
Hanover, PA 17331
Phone: 717.637.2816

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

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