Shapiro Administration Kicks Off Summer Outdoor Recreation Season at Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County

HOWARD – Wednesday, ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the Shapiro Administration visited Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County to officially kick off Pennsylvania’s summer outdoor recreation season — highlighting the Commonwealth’s continued infrastructure investments, growing tourism economy, and the broad appeal of its state parks and forests.

Through the Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway(opens in a new tab) campaign and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)’s “Still Open. Still Awesome.(opens in a new tab)” initiative, Pennsylvania is welcoming residents and visitors alike to explore its 124 state parks, 2.2 million acres of forestland, and more than 7,000 campsites — offering affordable, accessible, and unforgettable outdoor experiences for everyone.

“Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and we want people to know: Pennsylvania’s public lands are open, awesome, and waiting to welcome you,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “From scenic hikes and peaceful lakes to campfires under the stars, there’s something for everyone in our state parks and forests. Governor Shapiro is making strategic investments to ensure these spaces remain enjoyable to all.”

As some federal campgrounds reduce operations due to staffing shortages, Pennsylvania’s state parks experienced a nearly 30 percent increase in campground reservations earlier this spring. That upward trend has continued as we head into the busy summer months.

Today’s event took place at the newly completed White Pine Camping Loop at Bald Eagle State Park — a $1.9 million state-funded project that added 22 full-service, pet-friendly RV sites to the park’s existing mix of nearly 200 campsites, cottages, yurts, and the popular Nature Inn at Bald Eagle. Bald Eagle spans 5,900 acres and is home to Foster Joseph Sayers Lake, named in honor of a Pennsylvania native(opens in a new tab) who received the Medal of Honor after being killed in action in World War II. Secretary Dunn paused for a moment of silence at the lake to recognize those who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.

“We are fortunate to have six beautiful state parks in Centre County, each with its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure,” said Centre County Commissioner Chair Mark Higgins. “Thanks to the help of DCNR, we are able to keep our parks accessible, well-maintained, and ready to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors per year.”

“Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, is where adventure and authenticity come together,” said Happy Valley Adventure Bureau President and CEO Fritz Smith. “With more than 750,000 acres of nearby public lands, six state parks, and renowned recreation areas like Rothrock State Forest(opens in a new tab) and Harvest Fields Community Trails(opens in a new tab), we offer something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether hiking, biking, fishing, birding, or geocaching on the Happy Valley GeoTour, each experience is a chance to reconnect with nature and rediscover small-town charm. Every trail explored and every overnight stay directly supports the local businesses, hospitality partners, and passionate communities that make Happy Valley a truly unforgettable place to visit — and return to.”

This investment at Bald Eagle is part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to modernize Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests, with $120 million in infrastructure improvements completed since January 2023. The Governor’s 2025-26 proposed budget(opens in a new tab) includes $5 million in new funding to expand and enhance public lands — including the expansion of Lehigh Gorge State Park to include Glen Onoko Falls Trail and the creation of Pennsylvania’s 125th state park at Laurel Caverns in Fayette County, the state’s first subterranean park.

Since day one, Governor Shapiro has made strategic investments(opens in a new tab) to elevate outdoor recreation, transforming it into a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s economy and communities. These efforts are driving economic growth, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and creating jobs across the Commonwealth.

In 2023, Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry contributed $19 billion to the state’s economy — a 10 percent increase over the previous year — and now represents 2% of the Commonwealth’s gross domestic product. According to new data(opens in a new tab) from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the industry now supports more than 168,000 jobs that provide $9 billion in wages and salaries to Pennsylvanians.

“Pennsylvania’s public lands are the foundation of the Commonwealth’s $19 billion outdoor recreation industry and central to supporting the 9,000 businesses, and 168,000 jobs in the sector,” said Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner. “We are fortunate to have such great places to play, relax, and maybe even do a little remote work. These spaces are vital not only for our health and wellbeing but for supporting jobs and businesses that power Pennsylvania’s growing outdoor economy.”

Plan Your Great American Getaway

Reserve campsites, cabins, yurts, and pavilions at visitPAParks.com(opens in a new tab) or by calling 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Many parks have weekday availability and discounted non-peak rates.

DCNR relaunched its gift certificate program, available online(opens in a new tab) and at park offices, which can be used for lodging reservations, pavilion rentals, and state-operated retail purchases.

Public lands offer a wide range of outdoor activities spanning from ATV riding to whitewater boating. Visit DCNR’s website for more information about what to do at state parks(opens in a new tab) and where to go(opens in a new tab) on public lands, including local parks and for scenic views. DCNR encourages Pennsylvanians to check its Calendar of Events(opens in a new tab) for seasonal programming happening across the state.

As part of National Safe Boating Week, May 17-23, DCNR reminds visitors to follow basic safety tips on the water: always wear a life jacket, never boat under the influence, and check the forecast before heading out. Visitors should also follow Leave No Trace(opens in a new tab) principles to keep public lands clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.

As DCNR marks its 30th anniversary in 2025, the Shapiro Administration remains focused on delivering safe, welcoming, and well-maintained public lands for all. Whether you’re exploring a scenic overlook, casting a line into a quiet lake, or spending the night in a state park — Pennsylvania’s parks and forests are ready for your next adventure.

Visit DCNR’s website(opens in a new tab) for more information about state parks, events, and outdoor recreation opportunities.