Kettle Creek State Park

Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Kettle Creek State Park is a serene spot for those who want to escape into nature.

Located about 45 minutes from Lock Haven, the park’s centerpiece is the shimmering 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir. A tranquil body of water that offers visitors a variety of recreational activities to enjoy, including fishing, boating and swimming.

The park’s vast acres of forest are home to several miles of trails which allow hikers of all skill levels to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It also is home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Additionally, visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and even winter sports like cross-country skiing and ice fishing. For this reason, Kettle Creek State Park is a terrific year-round destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Pennsylvania state parks.

Activities

Those who visit are able to enjoy a wide range of outdoor leisure and recreational pursuits while at Kettle Creek State Park.

Presented below is a short summary of some of the main activities people enjoy during the time they have there.

Boating at Kettle Creek State Park

Thanks to its centerpiece lake, Kettle Creek State Park is known for its excellent boating opportunities.

The lake is located in a valley surrounded by steep mountains, which provide a scenic backdrop for a relaxing day on the water.

Boats, kayak and canoe rentals are available for those who don’t have their own vessel, and the park has a boat launch area and a large parking lot for boats and trailers.

If you intend to take to the water, you will need to abide by the rules and regulations of the park concerning safety equipment.

Fishing at Kettle Creek State Park

If you enjoy fishing, you will love the opportunities the lake gives you to catch brown, brook, and rainbow trout in Kettle Creek Lake. You may also be able to hook bass, catfish, and panfish as well.

The lake is perfect for those who prefer to fish from a boat, with a boat ramp located within the park.

Alternatively you can choose to cast a line from the shore. To do so, you will need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license, which you can pick up online, from the park or local stores in the nearby towns.

Fishing is allowed year-round, and the park offers several events and programs related to the pastime. They include youth fishing derbies and fly fishing workshops for those who want to brush up on their technique.

Hiking & Mountain Biking at Kettle Creek State Park

Hiking is a very popular activity at Kettle Creek State Park, attracting visitors from all over the state.

Overall, the park offers 11 miles of well-marked hiking trails that take hikers through its rugged terrain, showcasing breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

The trails vary in length and difficulty, ranging from the easy 1.5-mile Kettle Creek Vista Trail to the challenging 9-mile Bucktail Trail.

Along the way, hikers can experience the beauty of the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including the towering hardwood trees, ferns, wildflowers and wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and coyotes.

The park’s hiking trails also lead hikers to several natural and historical attractions. They include the Kettle Creek Gorge, the CCC Camp S-111 Historic Site, and the Kettle Creek Fire Tower, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Winter Recreation at Kettle Creek State Park

When the weather turns colder, Kettle Creek State Park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of winter activities.

One of the most popular of these is snowmobiling, which can take place over 20 miles of designated trails. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also available should you enjoy a quieter winter adventure.

For those who enjoy ice fishing, Kettle Creek Reservoir is a prime location to catch trout, bass, and panfish.

The park also hosts an annual Winter Festival, which features activities such as ice fishing, ice carving and winter hikes.

Pets

You should have no qualms about bringing your pets with you to Kettle Creek State Park so long as you adhere to its pet policy.

This states, among other things, that pets must be restrained and well behaved at all times when they are at the park. They must also not be left unattended for more than half an hour.

Pets additionally are only allowed in certain parts of the park. To clarify where these are, it is a good idea to check with park officials, prior to your visit.

Camping

Kettle Creek State Park offers a range of camping options for those who want to stay overnight.

Its campground has 68 campsites, including 53 that come with electricity hookups. Each of which has a picnic table and a fire ring. Additionally, the campground also features flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station for RVs.

For those who fancy a more secluded experience, there are 12 primitive campsites available, while the park also offers four modern cabins that can accommodate up to six people each. The cabins come with amenities like electricity, heating and a kitchenette and are located near the campground. They provide easy access to the park’s many recreational opportunities.

If you are planning on visiting the park in a larger number, there is a group camping area available for up to 25 people.

Park Location

Kettle Creek State Park
97 Kettle Creek Park Ln
Renovo, PA 17764
Phone: 570.923.6004

Park Website
Reservations

Map

Video

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