Colonel Denning State Park

About

Situated in Doubling Gap, where Blue Mountain curves back on itself in a distinctive S-turn, Colonel Denning State Park provides a secluded camping experience in north-central Cumberland County. The 273-acre park centers around a 3.5-acre lake offering fishing, swimming, and non-powered boating, while the surrounding 96,000-acre Tuscarora State Forest opens up extensive backcountry exploration. The 49-site campground accommodates tents and trailers, with each site equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Modern restroom facilities with warm showers serve the camping area, along with a sanitary dump station. Firewood and ice are available for purchase from the campground host. A separate group tenting area accommodates up to 20 people with five tent pads, lantern holders, and a large communal fire ring. Hiking is a major draw, with trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging routes connecting to the Tuscarora Trail. Flat Rock Trail leads to panoramic views of the Cumberland Valley. The park operates seasonally from early April through mid-December, aligning with Pennsylvania's trout and deer hunting seasons.

Directions

Located 8 miles north of Newville and 9 miles south of Landisburg along PA Route 233. The park address is 1599 Doubling Gap Road, Newville, PA 17241.