Situated just a 30-minute drive from Philadelphia, Neshaminy State Park is a popular destination for those who want a city detox.
Sitting on the banks of the Neshaminy Creek, this 330-acre Pennsylvania state park provides visitors with plenty of ways to relax and unwind.
Fishing is a popular activity at the creek, as well as the nearby Delaware River, which is also a huge draw for boaters.
Additionally, there is also a fantastic swimming pool to cool off in on a hot summer day, while almost 6.5 miles of trails meander through the park for those who want to explore it on foot.
The park also has three picnic pavilions, though unfortunately no camping facilities. However, as there are plenty of campgrounds in the surrounding area, there are several other places you can choose to pitch your tent or RV.
Activities
Neshaminy State Park allows visitors to enjoy its gorgeous surroundings in several different ways.
Presented below is a quick overview of some of the main recreational pursuits you can take part in while you are there.
Boating at Neshaminy State Park
As the park is situated along the Delaware River it provides visitors with excellent opportunities to take in the picturesque scenery while boating.
You will be pleased to read that unlimited hp motors are permitted and there are two ramps in the park that can easily get you onto the water.
There are also about 370 marina slips which are rented on a seasonal basis. Although demand for these is always strong and usually involves waiting lists.
As well as boating, the likes of kayaking, canoeing and Stand Up Paddling Boarding are also popular activities too.
Swimming at Neshaminy State Park
One of the best features of the park is its fantastic swimming pool. Open from the weekend of Memorial Day until the end of Labor Day, the pool is a terrific place to cool off from the summer sun.
The pool is lifeguarded, so swimmers are looked out for, while there is also a children’s spray area for the young ones to enjoy.
The pool is open from 10 am to 6 pm during the weekends and holidays and 11 am to 6 pm on week days and a fee is charged to use it. Children aged 10 or under should also be accompanied by someone who is at least 14 years old.
In case you are tempted, be aware that swimming is not allowed in the Delaware River.
Fishing at Neshaminy State Park
With both the Delaware River and Neshaminy Creek available, fishing is a very popular activity at the park.
Several species of warmwater fish species are present at either, including catfish, muskellunge, panfish and smallmouth and largemouth bass.
During the spring the park is also a noted area for the yearly run of striped bass that passes through it.
To fish at the park you will need a relevant Pennsylvania fishing license. However, once you have secured one, you will be able to cast a line from the shore or, if at the river, in a boat.
Hiking at Neshaminy State Park
Like with most state and national parks in the USA, Neshaminy State Park is perhaps best explored via hiking.
Overall the park has 6.45 miles of trails meandering through its diverse landscape. All of which provide excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife watching.
The trails vary in length, but they are all considered easy to traverse. They also all convey something unique about the park. Here are some of the most popular trails you can attempt during your visit to Nescopeck State Park:
- Eagles Forest Trail – Length: 0.4 miles Degree of Difficulty: easy
- Winks Lane – Length: 0.48 miles Degree of Difficulty: easy
- River Walk – Length: 0.92 miles Degree of Difficulty: easy
Picnicking at Neshaminy State Park
Picnicking is a very popular activity at the park, with many families and groups coming here to enjoy an al fresco meal.
Overall the park has three picnic pavilions available which can be reserved up to 11 months in advance of your visit.
If they are unreserved by the time of your visit, they are available on a first come, first served basis.
Pets
The park has a pet-friendly policy that enables you to bring your pooch with you on your visit.
However, should you choose to do this, you will have to abide by strict rules and regulations that relate to their attendance.
Firstly, all dogs must be well behaved and kept on a hand held leash during the entire time they are at the park.
Also owners are not allowed to take them into certain sections of the park and must clean up after they have made a mess.
Several other restrictions apply too, so to clarify what they are, you might want to contact the staff at the main office.
Camping
There are no camping facilities available at Neshaminy State Park. So, you will have to find somewhere else to base yourself should you want to camp in a tent or your RV.
Thankfully, there are several very good campgrounds available within a 20 to 30 minute drive of the park. These include the Deer Wood Campground in Pipersville, the Dogwood Haven Family Campground in Upper Black Eddy, the Tohickon Family Campground in Quakertown and the Beaver Valley Campgrounds in Ottsville.
Between them, these campgrounds cater to all preferences, from primitive tent sites to those which have full hookups for electricity, water and sewer. They also have cabins available too, as well as walk-in backpacking and group camping sites.
Depending on where you stay, some of their amenities may include comfort stations with flush toilets and warm shower houses. They may also include a swimming pool, laundry, dump station, children’s playground and a camp store.
Park Location
Neshaminy State Park
3401 State Rd
Bensalem, PA 19020
Phone: 215.639.4538
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Neshaminy State Park:
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