Sproul State Forest

Overview

Brochure InfoSproul State Forest was named in memory of William C. Sproul, Governor of Pennsylvania from 1919 to 1923. Governor Sproul was best known for expansion of the public education system in Pennsylvania. Sproul State Forest is located in north central Pennsylvania, primarily in western Clinton and northern Centre counties. The largest in the state forest system, Sproul covers 305,450 acres, or slightly more than 476 square miles. It features steep and rugged hillsides cut by the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and its tributaries. Sproul State Forest is one of eight state forests located in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. For more information visit the Sproul State Forest webpage.Brochure Info - OrientationPart of the Allegheny Plateau in Northcentral PA, the Sproul State forest and its expansive ridges are dominated by a mixed-oak forest type. It lies primarily within the Susquehanna watershed and the many clear, cool streams provide excellent habitat for native brook trout and its contiguous blocks of forestland are considered an Important Bird Area and provide valuable habitat for other wildlife. There are many unique ecological and geological natural features and ecosystems in the Sproul State Forest, with several State Forest Natural Areas that protect important wetland resources.Brochure Info - RecreationSproul State Forest’s 476 square miles is truly the place to experience the wild. Many opportunities exist to explore the area such as the foot-traffic only50-mile Chuck Keiper and 90-mile Donut Hole Trails that wind through some of the most remote locations. There are numerous scenic vistas, most accessible by vehicle along the 300+ miles of public use roads which are also popular for viewing wildlife and brilliant fall foliage. There are many other trails throughout the forest and most are open to horseback riding and mountain biking. The 21-mile Eagleton Mine Camp Trail is managed primarily for mountain biking, and in the winter the Hiding Bear Trail is a popular cross country skiing destination. Other forms of recreation include canoeing from state forest accesses and for those with an interest in motorized recreation there are two ATV trail systems available. Snowmobiling opportunities abound in the winter months. The large expansive forests are home to a variety of wildlife and offer rewarding opportunities for hunting and fishing. Camping in the Sproul State Forest is a great way to get away from it all and spend a night in the great outdoors. These designated, roadside campsites are identified by signpost and campsite name. They are remote, designated sites with no amenities. These sites are for motorized units and tent camping is not permitted.Brochure Info - Facilities and RestrictionsThe Sproul State Forest is managed for dispersed and low-density recreation and facilities are minimal throughout. The Jesse Hall State Forest Picnic Area is located along PA-144 about two miles south of South Renovo. The facilities there include picnic tables, fireplaces, pavilions, , and latrines. No drinking water is available at Jesse Hall Picnic Area.Brochure Info - Nearby AttractionsKettle Creek State Park, Hyner Run State Park, Hyner View State Park, Bald Eagle State Park, and State Game Lands 89, 100, and 321.Key InfoOccupants are also subject to the following permit conditions: 1. Campfires, when permitted, require that adequate precautions be taken to prevent the spread of fire into the forest. All other fires are prohibited. Campfires shall be attended at all times. Campfires in both fire rings and in fireplaces are prohibited when the forest fire danger is determined by the Department to be High, Very High, or Extreme and between March 1 through May 25 without authorization from the District Forester or designee. This prohibition does not apply to self-contained camp stoves when used in a safe manner. A person causing a wildfire, in addition to possible criminal penalty, is liable for all damages, costs of extinction and fines. 2. Dead and down wood may be gathered and burned when permitted but may not be removed from the site. Power tools and chain saws are not permitted. 3. Destruction of Property, damaging, defacing, or removing any sign, structure, equipment or other material is prohibited. 4. Occupants shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older. This permit may not be reassigned or transferred. 5. Pets are permitted on State Forest land if they are kept under control and attended at all times. Manure and pet waste must be disposed of properly. 6. Disorderly conduct including the following is prohibited. Fighting or other behavior that is threatening, violent or tumultuous; using obscene language or making obscene gestures; creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which does not serve a legitimate purpose of the actor; creating an unreasonable noise that may disturb other visitors to State Forest land. 7. Sanitation and Food Storage:Washing in a water outlet, spring, lake or waterway and discharging trailer, camper or motor home sewage, sink or bath water on or into ground or surface waters is prohibited. Toilets must be used where provided. In other locations, self-contained toilets must be used when required or human waste deposited in hole 4-6 inches deep, 200 feet from water, campsite, or trails and covered and disguised. Food must be stored properly to prevent interaction with wildlife. Littering or disposal of garbage, paper, household refuse, waste or other material is prohibited. 8. Parking which obstructs a gate, road, trail, footpath, bicycle path, access way, entrance, exit or road turnaround on State Forest land is prohibited. Parking in area designated for a person with a disability, by the Department, is prohibited unless the vehicle has a valid plate or valid placard. 9. Cutting, picking, digging, damaging or removing a living or dead plant, vine, shrub, tree or flower on State Forest land without written authorization of the District Foresters or a designee is prohibited. Edible wild plants or plant parts may be gathered without authorization if they are gathered for own personal or family consumption. 10. Removing or disturbing historical or archeological resources from State Forest land without written authorization of the District Forester or a designee is prohibited. 11.Target Shooting with firearms, bows arrows or devices capable of launching projectiles, causing injury to persons or property is prohibited. This includes paintball guns. Violations: Violations of forest rules and regulations, or violations of a condition of this permit could result in any or all of the following consequences: 1. The permit may be revoked. This would result in the occupants being required to vacate the facility immediately. 2. The occupants may be required to leave the forest. 3. The occupants may be cited for a violation of the forest rules and regulations, a summary offense. 4. The occupants are responsible for any damage to campsite and related facilities that occurred during or due to their occupancy.Important Information for Daily EntranceDirectionThe Sproul State Forest Resource Management Center is located just outside Renovo at 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, PA 17764. From US-220 take Exit 111 and follow PA-120W for approximately 32 miles. GPS: 41°18'16.2"N 77°48'25.6"WBooking Window Product InfoFee Cancellation DescPlease read our Fees and Cancellation Policies