by As federal campgrounds face closures due to staffing shortages, state parks near the Lehigh Valley are bracing for an influx of summer visitors.
In response to the closures, Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) kicked off its “Still Open. Still Awesome.” campaign in March, highlighting that the state’s parks and forests are fully open and ready.
“These lands offer priceless access to Pennsylvania’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation,” said Tom Gilbert, president of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. “They also pump $19 billion annually into the state economy.”
More Visitors, New Challenges
Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center in Bushkill Township is already seeing higher attendance, according to park manager Rob Neitz. A popular spot like the Henry’s Woods Trail fills up quickly, leaving visitors parking on grass and roadsides.
“We urge visitors to explore other parts of the park,” Neitz said. “You might discover a new favorite.”
Jacobsburg spans over 1,100 acres and includes trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Neitz stressed the importance of trail etiquette: “Everyone yields to horses, and cyclists yield to pedestrians. It’s about respect and safety.”
Surge in Camping Demand
Across Pennsylvania, campsite reservations are up nearly 30% compared to last year, signaling a busy summer.
DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said, “We encourage everyone to plan early and explore the wide range of available sites.”
At Hickory Run State Park, just north of the Lehigh Valley, park manager Stacie Hall reported a 60% increase in March bookings compared to last year. Hickory Run offers nearly 375 campsites, with full hookups and electric sites booking up fast.
“If you’re planning a trip, weekdays and non-holiday weekends still have availability,” Hall said.
Hickory Run: A Hub of Activity
The Hickory Run complex also includes Lehigh Gorge and the Nescopeck Environmental Education Center. All three areas are managed by a single team based out of Hickory Run.
“We’re getting more calls and visitors every day,” said Hall. “There’s real excitement about the upcoming season.”
Visitors came from 46 U.S. states, Canada, and even Germany last year. Most are from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Hall emphasized the need for preparation: “Learn the rules before visiting. Know your trail, your limits, and what to expect.”
Beltzville State Park Gears Up
Down in Carbon County, Beltzville State Park is getting ready for its busiest stretch of the year. Park manager Cody Miller said the beach, boat rentals, and food concessions are all set for Memorial Day.
“In July, we saw over 122,000 visitors,” Miller noted. “That’s nearly triple what we get in the spring.”
Beltzville features a 949-acre lake and over 16 miles of trails. Miller warned against using unmarked “social trails,” which pose safety risks.
“Stick to the blazed trails,” he said. “Going off-path could make rescue difficult if needed.”
Longer Seasons Thanks to Climate Shifts
Spring is starting earlier, and fall is stretching into December, according to Neitz at Jacobsburg.
“Warmer shoulder seasons mean we’re seeing more visitors year-round,” he said. “Still, Memorial Day to Labor Day remains our peak.”
A recent restoration project at Bushkill Creek reopened the popular Henry’s Woods Trail, bringing excited anglers and hikers back in droves.
“They were itching to return,” said Neitz. “Now that it’s open, we’re seeing a big spike in activity.”
Conclusion
With federal closures pushing more traffic toward state-managed parks, places like Jacobsburg, Hickory Run, and Beltzville are stepping up to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for everyone.
Whether you’re planning to hike, camp, fish, or just relax in the great outdoors, now’s the time to explore Pennsylvania’s stunning state parks.
