Best Backpacking Destinations in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States

All Topics about Harrisburg All Cities in United States

1. Appalachian Trail

A 2,200-mile hiking trail extending from Georgia to Maine that passes through Harrisburg, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrains.

Scenic Beauty: Hike through diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and valleys.
Adventure Level: Experience varying degrees of difficulty suitable for both beginners and experienced backpackers.
Wildlife Sightings: Spot various wildlife species along the trail, including bears, deer, and numerous bird species.

A state park featuring the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail, offering amenities for backpackers and picnickers.

Midpoint Attraction: Visit the Appalachian Trail's exact midpoint, where a marker stone is located.
Amenities: Take advantage of campground facilities, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Historical Significance: Explore the historic Pine Grove Furnace, a restored iron furnace from the 1800s.

A shorter 274-mile trail through Pennsylvania, offering a more accessible backpacking experience with diverse terrain and scenic views.

Accessibility: Ideal for backpackers looking for a less strenuous hike compared to the Appalachian Trail.
Scenery: Enjoy views of rolling hills, forests, and farmland as you hike through rural Pennsylvania.
Wildlife Observation: Spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.

An old railroad line converted into a scenic hiking and biking trail offering views of local flora and fauna.

Recreational Activities: Engage in various activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Nature Observation: Observe local flora and fauna along the trail, including birds, butterflies, and wildflowers.
Historical Context: Explore remnants of the old railroad system and learn about Harrisburg's industrial history.

A large state park offering backpacking trails, campgrounds, and various recreational opportunities.

Backpacking Opportunities: Choose from several backpacking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.
Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy stunning views of rolling hills, valleys, and the Susquehanna River.
Campground Facilities: Take advantage of campground facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas.

A waterfront park offering hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views.

Water Activities: Enjoy fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water.
Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Susquehanna River and nearby hills.
Hiking Opportunities: Choose from several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.

A beautiful state park featuring waterfalls and diverse landscapes, perfect for backpacking adventures.

Waterfall Exploration: Visit over 22 named waterfalls within the park.
Scenic Beauty: Hike through diverse landscapes, including forests, valleys, and rock formations.
Challenging Trails: Test your backpacking skills on the park's challenging trail systems.

A large state park featuring campgrounds, hiking trails, and a picturesque lake.

Camping Opportunities: Choose from several campgrounds offering various amenities.
Scenic Lake: Enjoy the beautiful Owl Creek Lake, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Hiking Trails: Explore the park's hiking trails, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings.

A historic building featuring guided tours, exhibits, and scenic views of Harrisburg.

Historical Significance: Learn about Pennsylvania's history and government through guided tours and exhibits.
Architectural Beauty: Admire the stunning architecture of this National Historic Landmark.
Scenic Views: Take in panoramic views of Harrisburg and the Susquehanna River from the Capitol's observation deck.

A small island in the Susquehanna River offering scenic views, picnic areas, and recreational opportunities.

Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Harrisburg's skyline and the Susquehanna River.
Picnic Opportunities: Relax and picnic in one of the island's picnic areas.
Recreational Activities: Engage in activities such as fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon on the island.

A park featuring hiking trails, campgrounds, and recreational opportunities along Forbes Road.

Hiking Opportunities: Explore several hiking trails offering diverse landscapes.
Campground Facilities: Choose from various campgrounds, including tent and RV sites.
Historical Context: Explore historical markers along Forbes Road, commemorating the route taken by General John Forbes in 1758.

A recreational area offering camping, hiking, and boating opportunities along the Susquehanna River.

Camping Opportunities: Choose from several campsites, including tent and RV sites.
Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Susquehanna River and surrounding hills.
Recreational Activities: Engage in activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the river.

A small state park featuring camping, hiking trails, and a scenic lake.

Camping Opportunities: Choose from several campsites, including tent and RV sites.
Scenic Lake: Enjoy the beautiful lake, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Hiking Trails: Explore hiking trails offering diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings.

A beautiful state park featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and campgrounds.

Waterfall Exploration: Visit several waterfalls within the park.
Scenic Beauty: Hike through diverse landscapes, including forests, valleys, and rock formations.
Camping Opportunities: Choose from several campgrounds offering various amenities.

An education center offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and environmental education programs.

Environmental Education: Learn about local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
Hiking Opportunities: Explore several hiking trails offering diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings.
Wildlife Observation: Spot various wildlife species along the trails, including deer, birds, and butterflies.