Visiting Colonel Denning State Park in Newville

Colonel Denning State Park is located in Cumberland County, Newville Pennsylvania. The state park consists of 273 acres of woodland and has a beautiful 3 1/2 acre lake. One of the things we love about this place is that it's open year-round from sunrise to sunset, plus there is so much to see and do while you're there.

Once every 2-3 years my family likes to get together for a family picnic and fun day at Colonel Denning. We typically do it in late spring or early summer, before it gets too hot. You'll find covered picnic pavilions at the park that are free to use, on a first-come basis, so you'll want to get there early if you plan on using one. You'll also find numerous charcoal grills that you can use if you plan on grilling out.

There is a sandy beach on the one side of the lake that you and your family can use. The sand is typically soft on your feet and they do keep the beach area pretty clean. Before getting into the water, you'll want to read all of the posted swimming rules, because you are swimming at your own risk.

You can use a kayak or non-motorize canoe in the lake with appropriate registration and permits. You will have to "hand" launch them and carry them from the parking area over to the launch area. Please be respectful of other boaters who are out on the water too. Remember, everyone is there to have a good time!

If you enjoy hiking, you'll find two miles of marked trails for you to enjoy and a few of the trails will join up with trails that are within the Tuscarora State Forest. You can visit the park's office for a trail map if you're interested in doing some hiking. I would say that most trails are "moderate" hiking trails, so make sure that everyone in your hiking party is in decent health. You'll want to take plenty of bottled water along with you.

If you want to stay overnight, they do have 50 campsites for you to reserve. There is no running water and non-flushable toilets are nearby. Almost all of the camping lots have shady areas which is really nice because you really feel that you are out in the wilderness with all of those trees! Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring, should you need them. Tent and travel trailers are allowed.

Every time we visit Colonel Denning State Park in Newville Pennsylvania, we have a great time. When visiting, you'll want to plan ahead, check the weather reports and take enough supplies along with you.

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