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What to Know Before Visiting York County, PA, Parks

York County, PA, is home to a diverse range of parks, offering everything from scenic overlooks and hiking trails to water activities and historical sites.

Many parks feature multiple attractions, such as hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints or lakes that offer both fishing and boating.

Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area Samuel S. Lewis State Park Susquehanna Riverlands State Park Codorus State Park Gifford Pinchot State Park William Kain County Park John C. Rudy County Park Richard Nixon County Park Heritage Rail Trail County Park Wallace Cross Mill Historic Site Apollo County Park Native Lands County Park P. Joseph Raab County Park Spring Valley County Park

To help you find the best parks for your interests, we’ve categorized them based on their standout features—though some parks could fit into more than one category.

Before heading out, be sure to check trail difficulty, available amenities, and seasonal park regulations to make the most of your visit.

Scenic Views & Overlooks

For breathtaking landscapes and panoramic vistas, these parks are must-visits:

Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area

Trail Challenge Level: Easy (half-mile, ADA-accessible paved trail with a gentle incline).
What to See: 79 acres of open meadowland with panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley and River.
Activities: Hiking, drone use (designated areas).
What to Know: Rock benches are available along the paved trail for resting.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park

Trail Challenge Level: Multiple trails with varying difficulty levels.
What to See: Stunning views of the Susquehanna River, surrounding towns, and farmlands.
Activities: Hiking, camping, picnicking, playground, and ball fields.
What to Know: Camping is available from April 1 - November 30 (reservations required).

Susquehanna Riverlands State Park

Trail Challenge Level: The popular Mason-Dixon Trail runs through the park, offering moderate to challenging terrain.
What to See: Miles of riverfront and creek views year-round.
Activities: Paddlesports, fishing, boating, sailing, hiking, and walking.
What to Know: This state park is ADA-accessible, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy.

Lakes & Water Activities

These parks offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and water-based fun:

Codorus State Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy to strenuous trails, including high-elevation paths.
What to See: Local wetlands, rolling hills, thick forests, views of Lake Marburg, and the birds that call the area home, including the bald eagle.
Activities: Fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and pool swimming.
What to Know: Swimming in the lake is not allowed due to fluctuating water levels.

Gifford Pinchot State Park

Trail Challenge Level: Ranges from easy to fairly challenging.
What to See: Woodlands, farmland, and picturesque views of Pinchot Lake.
Activities: Kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, fishing, disc golf, and educational programs.
What to Know: Picnic grounds and a playground are available.

William Kain County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Mostly easy trails with a few challenging options.
What to See: Views of Lake Williams and Lake Redman, perfect for birdwatching.
Activities: Boating, fishing, hunting, volleyball, horseshoes, hiking, and biking.
What to Know: Biking and horseback riding are prohibited during wet conditions—check with the park office before visiting.

Great for Family Fun & Education

Ideal for kids, families, and educational experiences:

John C. Rudy County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy and moderate trails, plus a BMX track for a challenge.
What to See: Scenic sunset and creek views.
Activities: Sports fields, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, green spaces, and cross-country trails.
What to Know: Includes Canine Meadows Off-Leash Dog Area (separates dogs by size).

Richard Nixon County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Mostly easy trails.
What to See: Meadows, woodlands, and local wildlife.
Activities: 14,000 square foot Nature Center with amphibian, reptile, insect, and bird exhibits as well as a bird-watching window; guided Sunday walks.
What to Know: The Nature Center is closed on Mondays.

Historic & Rail Trail Parks

Explore York County’s past while enjoying outdoor recreation:

Heritage Rail Trail County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy (10-foot-wide compacted stone and asphalt trails, ADA-accessible).
What to See: Historic railroad stations (Hanover Junction, New Freedom), Colonial Courthouse.
Activities: Biking, horseback riding, walking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
What to Know: Rail trail parking is available in select areas; click here for a map.

Wallace Cross Mill Historic Site

Trail Challenge Level: Easy (guided tours available).
What to See: Restored 1826 water-powered grist mill with historic milling equipment.
Activities: Guided tours and educational open houses.
What to Know: Preservation efforts by The Friends of Wallace-Cross Mill.

Wooded Trails & Nature Escapes

For hiking, birdwatching, and immersive nature experiences:

Apollo County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Moderate to challenging (Mason-Dixon Trail passes through).
What to See: Flowering valleys and Susquehanna River views.
Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and winter activities.
What to Know: Camping is allowed at the park but certain rules and regulations must be followed.

Native Lands County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy to moderate.
What to See: 187 acres of scenic nature, with the Native Lands Heritage Trail (six-foot-wide mowed path).
Activities: Hiking, kite flying, nature walks, and bird watching.
What to Know: Near the Zimmerman Center for Heritage, which offers exhibits on regional Native American history.

P. Joseph Raab County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy (typically takes about 30 minutes to explore).
What to See: Woodlands and bat caves.
Activities: Walking, hiking, and wildlife observation.
What to Know: No bikes or horses allowed.

Spring Valley County Park

Trail Challenge Level: 12 miles of trails (varying difficulty).
What to See: Agricultural fields and creek views.
Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and drone flying (designated areas).
What to Know: Offers seasonal horse shows and rentals for two horse show rings (contact Parks Office).

Rocky Ridge County Park

Trail Challenge Level: Easy to moderate.
What to See: Oak forest and Susquehanna Valley views.
Activities: Multi-use trails for hiking and biking, fitness trails, hunting, Hawkwatch Program, and Nature Fun Zone.
What to Know: Hosts Christmas Magic: A Festival of Lights each holiday season, featuring more than one million LED lights.

York County’s parks offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for scenic views, water activities, historic sites, or family-friendly fun. Plan your trip wisely, and be sure to check for park regulations, weather conditions, and seasonal events.