PA State Game Lands 221 - Cresco, PA
PA State Game Lands 221 Dog-Friendly Trails in Cresco, Pennsylvania
Located just outside Cresco, Pennsylvania, PA State Game Lands 221 is a unique outdoor destination offering beautiful, pet-friendly trails for nature lovers and their dogs. This dog-friendly hiking area is rich in natural beauty, featuring ruins to explore, a scenic gorge, multiple waterfalls, and lightly traveled trails that make for a peaceful outdoor experience. While not a traditional dog park with fenced-in areas, it provides miles of adventure in a truly wild setting.
Dog owners will appreciate the option to explore these scenic, unmarked trails year-round with their pets—just be mindful that this area is public hunting land, so wearing fluorescent orange during hunting season is required by law. Multiple primitive stream crossings and occasional muddy or wet conditions mean waterproof boots and preparedness are recommended. The Game Lands are a special place to enjoy dog-friendly hiking close to home, especially for those seeking a more rugged, natural experience with their four-legged companions.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are welcome on the trails, but there are no designated off-leash or fenced dog areas; use of a leash is strongly recommended for safety, especially during hunting season.
- Is this park open year-round? Yes, the Game Lands and trails are accessible throughout the year, including winter months.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are scenic hiking trails that wind through the area, including routes alongside streams and past waterfalls.
- Is this park muddy after it rains? Yes, trails can be muddy or wet, particularly after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trails are generally wooded and shaded, providing relief from the sun, though there are no built shelters.
- Is there parking available? Parking is available at the trailhead area on Devils Hole Rd.
- Are there any safety requirements during hunting season? Yes, wearing fluorescent orange is required during hunting season to ensure your safety while hiking.
Reviews
I accidentally discovered the “PA State Game Lands” just by trying to go for a walk 10 minutes away from my home, and I found a beautiful hiking trail!
I accidentally discovered the “PA State Game Lands” just by trying to go for a walk 10 minutes away from my home, and I found a beautiful hiking trail!
I accidentally discovered the “PA State Game Lands” just by trying to go for a walk 10 minutes away from my home, and I found a beautiful hiking trail!
I accidentally discovered the “PA State Game Lands” just by trying to go for a walk 10 minutes away from my home, and I found a beautiful hiking trail!
Abundance of whitetail, small game, and turkeys. Perfect place for spring gobbler
Abundance of whitetail, small game, and turkeys. Perfect place for spring gobbler
Beautiful, fascinating, full of history… And wayyyy too many people.
My dog and I abandoned the trail after about a mile; there were just too many other people there for me. But it’s very easy to navigate.
Do plan on multiple primitive stream crossings. Waterproof hiking boots were fine with the water very low, but in spring I’d probably bring another option.
It’d be beautiful here in winter, too. I may go back when there’s snow on the ground.
Beautiful, fascinating, full of history… And wayyyy too many people.
My dog and I abandoned the trail after about a mile; there were just too many other people there for me. But it’s very easy to navigate.
Do plan on multiple primitive stream crossings. Waterproof hiking boots were fine with the water very low, but in spring I’d probably bring another option.
It’d be beautiful here in winter, too. I may go back when there’s snow on the ground.
Beautiful, fascinating, full of history… And wayyyy too many people.
My dog and I abandoned the trail after about a mile; there were just too many other people there for me. But it’s very easy to navigate.
Do plan on multiple primitive stream crossings. Waterproof hiking boots were fine with the water very low, but in spring I’d probably bring another option.
It’d be beautiful here in winter, too. I may go back when there’s snow on the ground.
Beautiful, fascinating, full of history… And wayyyy too many people.
My dog and I abandoned the trail after about a mile; there were just too many other people there for me. But it’s very easy to navigate.
Do plan on multiple primitive stream crossings. Waterproof hiking boots were fine with the water very low, but in spring I’d probably bring another option.
It’d be beautiful here in winter, too. I may go back when there’s snow on the ground.