
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Canoe Creek State Park
Experience diverse wildlife in a scenic setting with hiking trails and a lake for canoeing.
- Hiking Trails: Over 15 miles of trails cater to beginners and experienced hikers alike.
- Lake Activities: Canoeing, fishing, and picnicking opportunities make this an all-around family destination.
- Camping: Over 100 campsites for those seeking an immersive nature experience.
2. Pottsgrove Park
Observe white-tailed deer, rabbits, and a variety of birds in this urban oasis.
- Urban Location: A unique chance to enjoy wildlife within city limits.
- Historical Site: Explore over 20 historical structures while enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Educational Programs: Offers programs for school groups and public events, emphasizing local ecology.
3. Colonial Park
Enjoy a scenic walk through diverse habitats with opportunities to spot squirrels, rabbits, and songbirds.
- Diverse Habitats: Forests, meadows, and wetlands provide a variety of wildlife viewing experiences.
- Walking Trails: Over 10 miles of trails cater to all fitness levels.
- Picnic Spots: Perfect for a family outing or group gathering with numerous picnic areas.
4. Swatara Creek Park
Explore the Swatara Rail Trail and spot beavers, herons, and other wildlife along the way.
- Rail-Trail: An old railroad line converted into a multi-use trail for biking, walking, or horseback riding.
- Scenic Beauty: Beautiful views of the Swatara Creek and surrounding forests.
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Observation decks along the trail provide excellent vantage points for wildlife spotting.
5. Herr's Cave Nature Park
Explore a limestone cave and adjacent nature park teeming with local wildlife.
- Limestone Cave: Unique opportunity to explore a natural limestone cave formation.
- Nature Park: Adjacent park offers trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Historic Significance: Features a historic grist mill and other structures from the early settlement era.
6. Tolbert Gap Nature Preserve
Discover a diverse habitat with opportunities to spot wild turkeys, deer, and a variety of birds.
- Diverse Habitat: Combines forests, fields, and wetlands for a rich wildlife experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over 3 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Platforms: Elevated observation areas offer excellent vantage points for wildlife spotting.
7. Railroad Park
Walk or bike along the Susquehanna River and observe beavers, herons, and other local wildlife.
- Susquehanna River Views: Stunning views of the Susquehanna River make for a picturesque experience.
- Rail-Trail: A converted railroad line offers a safe and scenic trail for biking, walking, or horseback riding.
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Opportunities to spot beavers, herons, and other local wildlife along the river.
8. Horseshoe Trail Nature Area
Hike through diverse habitats and observe a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
- Diverse Habitats: Forests, fields, wetlands, and streams provide a rich wildlife experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over 2 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
9. Green Hill Forest
Discover a diverse forest ecosystem teeming with local wildlife.
- Diverse Ecosystem: Features a mix of deciduous and evergreen forests for a rich wildlife experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over 4 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
10. Conewago Falls County Park
Experience the beauty of Conewago Falls and observe a variety of birds and small mammals.
- Waterfall Viewing: Stunning views of Conewago Falls make for an unforgettable experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over 2 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds and small mammals in the park.
11. Susquehanna State Park
Explore the Susquehanna River and observe a variety of birds and small mammals.
- River Access: Provides access to the Susquehanna River for canoeing, kayaking, or fishing.
- Hiking Trails: Over 8 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds and small mammals in the park.
12. Duncannon Park
Enjoy riverfront views and opportunities to observe a variety of birds and small mammals.
- Riverfront Views: Stunning views of the Susquehanna River make for an enjoyable experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over a mile of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds and small mammals in the park.
13. Milesburg Natural Area
Explore this forested area and observe a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
- Diverse Forest Ecosystem: Features deciduous and evergreen forests for a rich wildlife experience.
- Hiking Trails: Over 2 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
14. Mount Gretna Outdoor Adventure Center
Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while observing local wildlife in this unique setting.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.
- Historic Site: Located in the historic village of Mount Gretna with unique shops and restaurants.
15. Pennsylvania State Game Lands No. 238
Experience a peaceful wilderness sanctuary for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.
- Hunting Opportunities: Licensed hunters can participate in deer, turkey, and small game hunting.
- Hiking Trails: Over 20 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation Opportunities: Opportunities to spot a variety of birds, deer, and other local wildlife.