Samuel Lewis State Park
Perched high above the Susquehanna River Valley in York County, Pennsylvania, Samuel S. Lewis State Park is an 85-acre hilltop retreat renowned for its sweeping, panoramic views. Originally the private farmland of the park’s namesake—a former Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Forest and Waters who donated the land to the Commonwealth—the park opened to the public on July 4, 1954.
Unlike massive, heavily forested wilderness parks, Samuel S. Lewis is defined by its wide-open, manicured spaces and high elevation. The undisputed focal point is Mt. Pisgah, an 885-foot ridge that provides breathtaking, unobstructed sightlines of the surrounding towns, deep valleys, and active farmlands. It is a favored local destination for picnicking, kite flying, and quiet afternoon hikes.
Samuel S. Lewis State Park at a Glance
- Location: 6000 Mt Pisgah Rd, York, PA 17406 (York County)
- Entry Fee: Free entry and parking.
- Main Attractions: The Mt. Pisgah scenic overlook, expansive kite-flying fields.
- Facilities: Restrooms, three reservable picnic pavilions, and a playground.
- Camping: strictly a day-use park. There is NO overnight camping permitted.
The Mt. Pisgah Overlook
The primary reason most visitors travel to Samuel S. Lewis State Park is to stand atop Mt. Pisgah. The prominent, 885-foot-high rocky ridge anchors the park and separates the Susquehanna River Valley to the east from the Kreutz Creek Valley to the west.
Panoramic Sightseeing
From the crest of the ridge, visitors are treated to incredible seasonal vistas. In the autumn, the overlook provides a front-row seat to the changing foliage across the Susquehanna Valley. It is also a highly strategic location for birdwatchers, particularly during the fall raptor migration when hawks and eagles ride the thermal currents rising off the ridge.
A Kite Flyer’s Paradise
Because the northern and eastern slopes of the mountain consist of deeply mowed, wide-open grass fields rather than dense forests, Mt. Pisgah acts as a massive natural wind catch. This unique geography makes the park one of the premier kite-flying destinations in southern Pennsylvania for both families and serious hobbyists.
Hiking and Recreation
While the footprint of the park is relatively small, it packs a surprising amount of diverse terrain into its 85 acres. The landscape transitions sharply from the open, grassy summit down into a mature, deeply shaded pine plantation in the southern section, and mixed hardwood forests to the west.
| Trail Name | Distance / Difficulty | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Hilltop Trail | 1.2 miles / Moderate | The longest and most dynamic trail in the park. It loops precisely around the summit of Mt. Pisgah, weaving through the pine plantation and offering the best vantage points of the exposed rock formations. |
| Fire & Nature Trails | 0.5 & 0.3 miles / Easy | Short, highly accessible paths ideal for families. The Nature Trail is particularly good for spotting local wildlife, including woodpeckers, owls, and grazing wild turkeys. |
| Disc Golf Course | 9 Holes / Moderate | A challenging, heavily wooded 9-hole disc golf course utilizes the park’s dramatic elevation changes, offering a highly technical round for seasoned players. |
Picnicking and Day-Use Facilities
Samuel S. Lewis is explicitly designed for comfortable day use. The park is heavily dotted with individual picnic tables and charcoal grills, many offering excellent views of the valley below. For larger family gatherings or events, the park manages three large pavilions (including the highly popular Hilltop Pavilion) which can be reserved up to 11 months in advance.
Near the main picnic areas, families will find modern playground equipment, horseshoe pits, and easy access to potable water and modern restrooms. Note that because this is strictly a day-use facility, the park closes promptly at sunset, and there are no overnight accommodations of any kind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed at the park?
Yes, Samuel S. Lewis State Park is very pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome to join you on the hiking trails and in the open fields, provided they are kept on a leash at all times and owners strictly clean up after them.
Can I fly a drone from the top of Mt. Pisgah?
No. While the park is famous for kite flying, the use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is generally prohibited in Pennsylvania State Parks unless specifically designated to protect wildlife and the privacy of other visitors.
Is there a lake or swimming area?
No. Because the park is situated on a high ridge, there are no lakes, streams, or swimming pools within the park boundaries. Visitors looking for water recreation should look to the nearby Susquehanna River access points outside the park.
Plan Your York County Visit
Pack a picnic, bring a kite, and enjoy the best views in southern Pennsylvania.
📍 Primary Location: 6000 Mt Pisgah Rd, York, PA 17406
🌐 Official Website: Pennsylvania DCNR – Samuel S. Lewis
📞 Park Office Phone: (717) 252-1134
