Bucktail State Park Natural Area

Bucktail State Park Natural Area is a protected forest landscape that extends roughly 75 miles along Pennsylvania Route 120, linking Emporium and Lock Haven through valleys and ridges. The terrain includes dense woodlands and mountainous sections, with significant portions remaining under private ownership.

The Pennsylvania Legislature established this area as a state park in 1933, protecting an ancient Native American pathway that once connected the Susquehanna and Allegheny river systems. This historic route had served for centuries as a vital passage through the mountain landscape.

The name comes from the Civil War Pennsylvania Bucktails Regiment, which left Driftwood in 1861 to serve in the Union Army. Visitors can feel the historical connection to the region's past when exploring this landscape.

Visitors should seek permission before entering private properties within the park boundaries, as substantial sections of the land remain privately owned. Understanding access rules and respecting the boundaries between public and private areas will ensure a smooth visit.

The river valleys here attract diverse wildlife including elk, osprey, white-tailed deer, and black bears that find ideal habitats in these waterway corridors. This concentration of animals and birds makes it a rewarding destination for nature watchers.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: 1933

Website: http://dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/Bucktail.aspx

GPS coordinates: 41.51080,-78.21920

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:02