Located along state Route 144 in Clinton County, the park stretches across a remote valley carved by Kettle Creek and is surrounded almost entirely by the vast Sproul State Forest, the largest state forest in Pennsylvania.

The park’s centerpiece is the 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir, which provides a scenic backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities. Rolling forested hills, quiet waters and abundant wildlife make the area especially attractive for those looking to escape the quickly changing pace of everyday life.

According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the park is situated within a region rich in natural beauty, featuring mixed hardwood forests and diverse habitats that support a variety of plant and animal life.

“Kettle Creek State Park is surrounded by mountainous terrain and pristine forestland,” the DCNR notes, highlighting the area’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Above, one of the many peaceful views during the drive leading into the park ahead of the Alvin R. Bush Dam.

THE HISTORY

The land that now makes up Kettle Creek State Park has a long history tied to Pennsylvania’s lumber industry. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region was heavily logged to supply timber for a growing nation.

Following this period of deforestation, much of the land was acquired and reforested by the Commonwealth, eventually becoming part of Sproul State Forest.

The construction of the Alvin R. Bush Dam in the mid-20th century created the Kettle Creek Reservoir, helping to control flooding in the West Branch Susquehanna River watershed while also establishing the park as a destination for recreation.

Over time, the area has transformed from a heavily harvested landscape into a thriving forest ecosystem, offering visitors a glimpse of both natural recovery and conservation efforts in Pennsylvania.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Open fields provide plenty of land for wildlife.

During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed the original park that is now considered the Lower Campground.

Additionally, during 1962, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers opened the Alvin R. Bush Dam for flood protection for the lower Susquehanna watershed.

ACTIVITIES

Boating and Fishing

The Kettle Creek Reservoir is a focal point for recreation within the park. Visitors can enjoy boating opportunities, with both motorized and non-motorized boats permitted, as well as kayaks that can be rented out through a third party.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS One of many informational signs throughout Kettle Creek shows their 22-mile equestrian trail that starts at Beaverdam Run and travels through the Sproul State Forest before returning to the trailhead.

Fishing is also popular, with anglers seeking species such as bass, trout and panfish.

DNCR notes that all Pa. Fish and Boat Commission regulations apply.

Swimming

During the warmer months, a designated swimming area provides a refreshing place to cool off. The beach area is open seasonally and offers a family-friendly environment for visitors.

Hiking

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS The start of the multi-use trail begins along Beaverdam Run.

Kettle Creek State Park features several miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty, giving both beginner and experienced hikers options to explore the surrounding landscape.

Trails wind through forested hillsides, offering scenic overlooks of the reservoir and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

— Bearfield Road Trail: This 5.9-mile “out-and-back” trail connects the day use area of the park to many other trails throughout Sproul State Forest with 1.7 miles in the park.

— Beaverdam Road:This 75-mile trail shares a small 0.2 mile “out-and-back” hike beginning at the intersection of Beaverdam and Kettle Creek roads and accesses many trails throughout Sproul State Forest. Trailhead parking for trailers is available at the base of Beaverdam Road.

— Butler Trail: Beginning at the park, this rugged, 1.3-mile trail leads to Kettle Creek Vista. This vista is in Sproul State Forest and allows visitors to see the entire park and up to 30 miles away. DCNR also considers this to be a more difficult hike.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS An additional view of the lake.

— Donut Hole Trail: Briefly passing through the park near the Lower Campground, the 94-mile Donut Hole Trail loop that traverses rough terrain in Sproul State Forest for hikers and backpackers to enjoy. Many other trails can be accessed along this trail, including the Susquehannock Trail System in Susquehannock State Forest.

— Nature Trail: This 0.31 mile loop trail travels from the Upper Campground to Butler Trail and is great for viewing wildlife.

— Sugar Camp Road: Starting at the Kettle Creek Lake, this 1.5-mile road “out-and-back” trail connects to other roadways and trails in Sproul State Forest.

— Wallow Loop Trail: This short 0.76 mile loop trail offers beautiful views of Kettle Creek along with many riparian wetland areas along Beaverdam Run. It is great for birding and wildlife watching.

Disc Golfing

The park also offers a disc golf course, providing a fun and accessible recreational option for visitors of all ages. The course winds through wooded areas, combining light hiking with the challenge of navigating natural terrain, making it a popular activity for both beginners and experienced players.

Camping

Campsites are available for tents and recreational vehicles, with features such as restrooms, showers and electric hookups at select sites.

The Lower Campground is along Kettle Creek and has 41 sites with electricity and modern restrooms with showers. These sites open from early April to mid-December. Pets are prohibited in the Lower Campground.

The Upper Campground overlooks the Alvin R. Bush Dam and Kettle Creek Reservoir and has 27 sites — 12 with electric hook-ups and vault toilets. Pets are permitted on all sites in Upper Campground and are open from early April to mid-October.

“The park has two camping areas with level sunny or shady sites that accommodate tents or trailers. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Water spigots are scattered throughout the campground,” according to DCNR.

The campground is typically open from spring through fall, providing a comfortable base for outdoor adventures.

Reservations can be made online at pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 888-PA-PARKS.

Picnicking

Picnic areas throughout the park offer tables, grills and pavilions, making it an ideal location for family gatherings, reunions or a simple day outdoors. Some pavilions can be reserved in advance, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“The picnic area sits below the park office along Bearfield Run and Kettle Creek Reservoir. Many picnic tables with charcoal grills, hot coal disposal and water hydrants are scattered throughout this area,” according to DCNR.

Softball and volleyball areas are also available for use along with playground sets at several locations.

Wildlife Watching

Surrounded by Sproul State Forest, the park provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors may encounter white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys and a variety of bird species.

DCNR shares how elk, river otter and fisher are elusive animals that can be found in the park.

Seasonal changes bring different scenic highlights, from lush greenery in the summer to vibrant foliage in the fall.

Hunting

While hunting is not permitted within the developed park boundaries, nearby areas of Sproul State Forest provide access to hunting opportunities in accordance with state regulations.