Zindel Park – Dog-Friendly Trails & Nature in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania

Zindel Park, located on Reservoir Rd in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, is a scenic haven for nature lovers and their pets. Known for its picturesque rivers, reservoirs, and easy-to-navigate pet-friendly trails, the park offers wide open spaces and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for dog owners seeking a peaceful outing. The area features grassy clearings, a flowing creek, and unique landmarks like a dilapidated house, stone structures, and a small waterfall, making every visit an adventure. Ample (though unpaved) parking is available in a dirt lot near the entrance, alongside a gazebo and picnic tables providing a great place to relax.

While Zindel Park is not a traditional dog park with fenced enclosures, it offers expansive trails where well-behaved dogs can enjoy off-leash time in many areas, provided they remain under control. Owners should remain attentive, as the space is shared with other pets and wildlife, and leashes are encouraged for those pets less reliable with recall. Clean restrooms and a port-a-john are onsite for visitor convenience, and there’s abundant shade throughout the park. The natural setting, direct trail access, access to Pine Creek, and areas for picnics make this park a standout location for dog-friendly hiking in Clinton County and the Lock Haven area.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are commonly allowed off-leash in much of Zindel Park, but there is no fenced area, so they should remain under reliable voice control and owners need to be attentive.
• Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there are no dedicated fenced dog runs or enclosures in the park.
• What are the park’s leash requirements? While off-leash dogs are commonly seen, keeping your dog leashed is strongly recommended if your dog does not have reliable recall, especially due to wildlife and other dogs in the area.
• Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are plenty of shady spots and some shelter, including a gazebo with a picnic table near the parking lot.
• Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are clean restrooms and port-a-johns near the main parking area.
• Where is the best place to park? Parking is available in a dirt lot toward the end of Reservoir Rd, but be aware the road is steep, unpaved, and best suited for 4×4 or AWD vehicles.
• Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Absolutely – the park is renowned for its extensive network of dog-friendly hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.
• Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There is a creek and access to reservoirs where some dogs may swim, but use caution and keep an eye on your pet near water.
• Are picnics allowed? Yes, picnicking is allowed and there are picnic tables and clearings ideal for relaxing with your pet.
• Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shady areas and a gazebo for shelter.
• Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The park is generally well maintained, but there are occasional reports of litter or uncollected dog waste. Please do your part to keep the area clean.