🌤 Weather at Michaux State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32–73 °F | 61–85 °F | 35–76 °F | 23–41 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Chambersburg 1 Ese, 4 mi away, elevation 640 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Michaux State Forest is located in Pennsylvania near Fayetteville and is managed by the DCNR Bureau of Forestry, not by Pennsylvania’s state park system. Spanning more than 85,500 acres and established in 1897, the forest offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Pennsylvania |
| Nearest City | Fayetteville |
| Park Size | 85,500 acres |
| Established | 1897 |
Location & Getting There
Michaux State Forest is located near Fayetteville, Pennsylvania. The park’s coordinates are 39.9119, -77.5636.
Things to Do
Michaux covers more than 85,500 acres of South Mountain in Cumberland, Franklin and Adams counties. It is considered Pennsylvania’s “cradle of forestry” as the site of the first forestry school, Mont Alto, and is named for the French botanist Andre Michaux. The Bureau of Forestry lists hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, ATV riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, golfing, picnicking, sightseeing and a target shooting range (permit required).
Best Time to Visit
The forest is open year-round, but some uses are seasonal. ATV trails are open only from the Friday before Memorial Day through the last full weekend in September, and again from the day after the rifle deer season until April 1. During spring wildfire season, from March 1 to May 25, primitive campers need the forest’s permission for a campfire. In winter, the Bureau of Forestry lists snowmobiling and cross-country skiing here.
Visitor Tips
Michaux is a state forest of the DCNR Bureau of Forestry, not a Pennsylvania state park. Backpackers may camp in most areas without a permit if they stay no more than one night in one spot. Longer stays and all roadside (motorized) camping need a permit from the Pennsylvania State Park and Forest Reservation System, and roadside camping is allowed only at designated sites. State forests have no water, hookups or dump stations, so pack out your trash. For local questions, call the Michaux District Office in Fayetteville (717-352-2211).
Explore More Pennsylvania State Parks
Looking for state parks in Pennsylvania? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Pennsylvania guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Michaux SF — 85,000 acres on South Mountain — is one of the most visited state forests in PA. The Appalachian Trail traverses the forest for 40 miles. The forest’s mountain ridges, ravines, and streams support black bears, bobcats, and timber rattlesnakes. Brook trout fill the mountain streams. Mountain laurel blooms magnificently.
Nearby Attractions
Gettysburg — 15 miles east — has the Civil War battlefield. Caledonia SP — within the forest. Pine Grove Furnace SP — within the forest — has the AT midpoint. Carlisle — 15 miles north.
Nearby parks: If you have extra time, Caledonia State Park is a short drive away, and Mont Alto State Park is a short drive away.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Michaux State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
