Camping at RACCOON CREEK STATE PARK

Basic Information

Raccoon Creek State Park is a 7,572-acre park located in Hookstown, Pennsylvania, in Beaver County. It is one of the largest and most visited state parks in Pennsylvania, offering a variety of recreational activities.

Facilities and Activities

Camping:

• The park offers several types of camping, including modern campgrounds with electric hookups, rustic campgrounds, and group camping areas.
• Campers have access to restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

Hiking:

• Raccoon Creek State Park boasts more than 44 miles of hiking trails. These range from short, easy loops to longer, more challenging hikes.
• The trails take visitors through diverse landscapes including forested areas, wetlands, and along the lake shore.

Swimming:

• A 500-foot public beach on the 101-acre Raccoon Lake is open from late-May to mid-September.
• Lifeguards are not always on duty, so swimming is at one's own risk when they're not present.

Fishing and Boating:

• Raccoon Lake is home to a variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to catch bass, bluegill, and trout, among others.
• Boating with electric motors is permitted, and there is a boat launch and mooring area available for this purpose.

Picnicking:

• The park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, several of which are ADA accessible.
• There are also a few picnic pavilions that can be reserved in advance.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Flora and Fauna:

• The park provides habitat for diverse wildlife, including raccoons, deer, beavers, and numerous bird species.
• It is also home to a wide variety of plants, from hardwood trees to wildflowers and ferns.

Wildflower Reserve:

• The park features a wildflower reserve that spans 314 acres and includes over 700 species of plants. It is particularly stunning during the spring and fall.

Visitor Tips

• Check Seasonal Restrictions: Certain amenities and facilities may be seasonal, so it’s best to check the park’s official website or contact the park directly for current information before your trip.
• Reserve in Advance: For camping and picnic pavilion rentals, it's recommended to reserve well in advance, as these facilities can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles during your visit to protect the park’s natural resources and wildlife.
• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in designated areas, but they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Prepare for Wildlife Encounters: Store food securely and keep your campsite clean to avoid attracting raccoons and other wildlife.
• Water Safety: Always prioritize safety when swimming or boating. Children should be supervised near the water.
• Trail Etiquette: Share the trails and respect the natural environment. Stay on marked trails to ensure the protection of the surrounding habitat.

Getting There and Contact Information

Raccoon Creek State Park is easily accessible by car, located approximately 30 miles west of Pittsburgh. You can use the following address for GPS navigation:

Raccoon Creek State Park 3000 State Route 18 Hookstown, PA 15050

To obtain more detailed information or to make reservations, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) official website or contact the park office directly.