Buchanan's Birthplace State Park

Open — Open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Day-use only; no camping facilities available. Pavilions can be reserved up to 11 months in advance.

About

Buchanan's Birthplace State Park is an 18.5-acre historic and recreational day-use park located in a scenic gap of Tuscarora Mountain in Franklin County. The park was created from land donated by Harriet Lane in honor of her uncle, James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States, who was born at this site in 1791. A stone pyramid memorial marks the birthplace, and the actual cabin has been relocated to Mercersburg. The park offers two reservable picnic pavilions, picnic tables, restrooms, and drinking water in a wooded setting alongside Buck Run, which flows through the property and hosts a population of native trout. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations for approved trout waters apply. The Tuscarora Trail, which serves as a bypass to the Appalachian Trail, passes to the west of the park along the crest of Tuscarora Mountain. This quiet, narrow hollow provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by forested mountains that offer beauty throughout the year. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, with day-use areas closing at dusk. It is managed by Cowans Gap State Park and offers environmental education programs from April through October. Note that this is a day-use only facility with no camping available.

Directions

Located between McConnellsburg and Mercersburg near the village of Cove Gap along PA Route 16. From U.S. 30 at Fort Loudon, take PA 75 south and follow signs to Cove Gap and the park.

Nearby Campgrounds