Forbes State Forest is a public state park in Pennsylvania near Laughlintown. Spanning 388 acres and established in 1926, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Pennsylvania |
| Nearest City | Laughlintown |
| Park Size | 388 acres |
| Established | 1926 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Forbes State Forest is located near Laughlintown, Pennsylvania. The park’s coordinates are 46.0041, -86.3820.
Things to Do
Pennsylvania’s massive state park system is defined by deep hardwood forests, rugged river gorges, and expansive lakes. It offers top-tier hiking on miles of trails (including access to the Appalachian Trail), extensive boating and sailing on natural and man-made lakes, and some of the best fly fishing for trout in the eastern United States. Visitors also enjoy whitewater rafting, camping in shaded forest sites, mountain biking, exploring old-growth forest remnants, and visiting historical sites that chronicle America’s early industrial and colonial history.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (late September through October) is magnificent, as Pennsylvania’s vast deciduous forests put on one of the best foliage displays in the country. Summer (June–August) is the busiest season, perfect for lake swimming and shaded woodland hikes. Spring (April–May) brings high water levels great for whitewater paddling and waterfall viewing. Winter transforms many northern and mountain parks into destinations for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing, though some park facilities close seasonally.
Visitor Tips
Pennsylvania stands out by offering free admission to all state parks for day use. Camping and cabin rentals require fees and can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through the state’s reservation system. Popular parks like Ohiopyle and Ricketts Glen can get very crowded on summer and fall weekends. When hiking waterfall trails (like the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen), wear sturdy, grippy footwear as the stone steps are perpetually wet and slippery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pennsylvania state parks free?
Yes, all Pennsylvania state parks offer free admission — no vehicle permits or entrance fees are required. Camping, cabin rentals, and some specific activities may have fees.
What are the best state parks in Pennsylvania?
Top parks include Ricketts Glen (22 waterfalls), Ohiopyle (whitewater and trails), Cook Forest (old-growth forest), Worlds End (mountain scenery), and Presque Isle (Lake Erie beach peninsula).
Can I see waterfalls at Pennsylvania state parks?
Ricketts Glen State Park is famous for its Falls Trail with 22 named waterfalls. Bushkill Falls (privately operated) and Dingmans Falls (Delaware Water Gap) are also popular waterfall destinations nearby.
How far in advance can I book camping in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania state park camping reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the PA DCNR reservation system. Popular parks like Ricketts Glen and Ohiopyle fill quickly for summer weekends.
Explore More Pennsylvania State Parks
Forbes State Forest 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.
Wildlife & Nature
Forbes SF — 50,000 acres in the Laurel Highlands — encompasses Mount Davis (3,213 feet), Pennsylvania’s highest point. The forest’s mountain ridges, bogs, and hardwood-conifer forests support black bears, bobcats, and timber rattlesnakes. Snowshoe hares inhabit the higher elevations. Northern saw-whet owls call at night.
Nearby Attractions
Somerset — adjacent. Ohiopyle SP — 20 miles northwest — has Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater. Flight 93 National Memorial — 15 miles north. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail — traverses.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Laurel Summit State Park (a short drive away) or Laurel Mountain State Park (a short drive away).
Park Location
Plan your gear for Forbes State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
