Sizerville State Park
Pennsylvania

Sizerville State Park

Cowley Hill, Portage Township, Pennsylvania
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Mountain Biking
  • Snowmobiling
  • Ice Fishing
  • Sailing
  • Rafting
  • Paddling
  • Biking
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated March 2026

Sizerville State Park is a public state park in Pennsylvania in Cameron and Potter Counties County. Spanning 386 acres and established in 1924, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StatePennsylvania
CountyCameron and Potter Counties
Park Size386 acres
Established1924
AccessibilityYes. See dcnr.pa.gov for specific accessibility details.

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

Sizerville State Park 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

Sizerville SP — in Cameron County — provides recreation in the heart of the PA Wilds. The park’s mountain forest, First Fork of the Sinnemahoning Creek, and CCC-era structures support elk, black bears, and white-tailed deer. Brook trout fill the creek. Bald eagles soar above. Wild turkeys strut.

Nearby Attractions

Emporium — adjacent. Sinnemahoning SP — 15 miles east — has premier elk viewing. Elk Country Visitor Center — 25 miles southeast. PA Wilds — surrounding.

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Park Location

Cowley Hill, Portage Township, Pennsylvania