Fowler Hollow Run at Fowlers Hollow State Park

Fowler Hollow Run at Fowlers Hollow State Park. Photo: Clint, Wikimedia

Strategically placed between Washington D.C., Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Fowlers Hollow State Park is a popular getaway for those who want to retreat from the pace of city life for a while.

Set across 104 spectacular acres, the park, and the adjacent Tuscarora State Forest, are the perfect places to go to reconnect with nature.

Although one of Pennsylvania’s smaller state parks, there is plenty to do at the Fowlers including fishing, hiking, horse riding and biking. While snowmobiling and cross-country skiing is regularly practiced in winter too.

While the campground is small by many other state parks’ standards, it offers a comfortable base for the visitor to explore its picturesque landscape.

Driving to Fowlers Hollow State Park

Situated roughly halfway between Altoona and Harrisburg, the park is a very easy place to get to from both cities.

While the area is undoubtedly beautiful it does lay within a mountainous terrain. So be extra careful when you drive as the roads are narrow and winding in parts. Be sure to reduce your speed and drop down a gear when appropriate.

Whilst in the park you should be able to freely drive any vehicle, including RVs, trailers, campers, motorhomes and campervans on its roads.

If you are intending to visit the park during winter, it is a good idea to double check for road closures prior to leaving home.

Activities

When you visit Fowlers Hollow State Park there is a wide range of outdoor recreational pursuits you can take part in.

Outlined below is just a small selection of some of the activities the park is renowned for.

Fishing at Fowlers Hollow State Park

Be sure to pack your rod and reel with you as Fowlers Hollow State Park is a fabulous place to fish.

Centered around Fowlers Run, a fresh-water stream that runs through the park, anglers will find trout in abundance here.

You can fish here at any time in the warmer months. Although you will need to comply with the laws and regulations of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission when you do so.

However, if you can, try and visit the park in mid-May, as the stream features plenty of brook trout at that time.

Hiking at Fowlers Hollow State Park

The park, and the adjacent Tuscarora State Forest, is well known for its many hiking opportunities.

Within Fowlers Hollow State Park, there is a trailhead that leads into the forest’s 96,000 acres. From there you will be able to hike the iconic Tuscarora Trail.

As the forest is so large, it is advisable to take a map with you before you begin your hike there.

Biking and horse riding at Fowlers Hollow State Park

If you are interested in mountain biking and horse riding, the adjacent Tuscarora State Forest offers good opportunities for both.

You can do this at the Beaston and Alfarata trails, which are suitable for riders of all skill levels.

Mountain biking and horse riding are also permitted on park roads.

Picnicking at Fowlers Hollow State Park

As compared to other state parks in Pennsylvania, the picnic area isn’t the biggest. However, the few tables they do have, offer a lovely spot in which to enjoy your food, within the stunning surroundings of lush woodland.

Pretty much all of the tables come with a grill, so you can prepare a hot meal for you and your party.

Should you want to eat in a larger group, there is also a picnic pavilion available which can be reserved up to 11 months in advance. If left unreserved, it can be used for free on a first come first served basis.

Hunting at Fowlers Hollow State Park

Hunting is not permitted in Fowlers Hollow State Park. However, during the designated season, many visitors base themselves at the park to hunt in the adjacent Tuscarora State Forest.

As the terrain is fairly hilly and mountainous, turkey and deer are the most popular species to hunt there.

Please note, it is forbidden to openly carry archery or firearms inside the park. Therefore, when not hunting, all weapons must be kept inside your trailer.

Winter Recreation at Fowlers Hollow State Park

As soon as the snow comes, the park transforms into a wonderland for winter based activities.

Snowmobiling is an especially popular activity here across the magnificent landscape of the Tuscarora State Forest. Which, under a blanket of snow, is quite breathtaking.

Similarly, cross-country skiing is well practiced too. Taking place across the park, but especially within two miles of specifically designated trails, that run near the southwest section of the campground.

Pets at Fowlers Hollow State Park

Pets are permitted within the park, although some restrictions do apply.

For further clarification of what they are, it’s worth contacting the park’s main office.

Camping at Fowlers Hollow State Park

Within the park you will find a small campground that features 18 pet friendly campsites.

Regarded as an excellent place for RVs to base themselves for a relaxing stay, 12 of these sites come with electric and water hookups. One of these sites has a 50-amp connection, while the others have a 30-amp connection. The remaining six are primitive walk-in tent sites.

All of these campsites come with a fire ring and a picnic table. While other amenities include flush toilets and an ADA-accessible restroom, water spigot and a sanitary dump station.

Please note, there are no showers available at the campground.

Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance of your stay at the campground. Those sites that remain unreserved are available on a first come first served basis.

Park Location

Fowlers Hollow State Park
Blain, PA 17006
Phone: 717.776.5272

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a YouTube video giving a short tour of Fowlers Hollow State Park State Park: