Let me tell you something. During this time of Covidiousness, we've certainly done our fair share of outdoorsy types of things. While coming to a state park like this in York County may not seem like an obvious choice, it's actually been the perfect place. I'm not going to go in to any history or backstory (I covered that in my initial musings several years ago) but what sets this park apart from most PA state parks is its size. While the park is only 85 acres (PA has 121 state parks and some of them clock in at north of 15K acres just for a sense of scope) it's layout allows for things to feel more spread out than you would assume. The main road that wraps around the park is great for walking but there are also two miles of trails which if done in a clockwise direction are actually somewhat challenging with how it'll be mostly uphill. There is also a disc gold course, a rock formation that kids will love to climb on, a few small swing sets placed at different spots and a large open field at the top of hill with one hell of a view towards the Susquehanna River, Wrightsville and Columbia. The best part about this place is that it's rural enough so that it's never too busy. We've made trips to some state parks closer to us (Jacobsburg-Nockamixon-Lehigh Gorge) recently and they have been consistently packed. Here, not so much. The drive here is easy. There is an amazing view. There is usually more than enough space for everyone to spread out and do whatever they want. Sounds perfect to me and we'll be back this weekend. read more

Samuel S. Lewis State Park does not offer you a bunch of amenities. There's no amazing new playground for the kiddies (although there are some swings and such throughout). There's very few short trails around the park (but enough to satisfy my dogs and if you go the "right" way, you get quite a workout hiking uphill). However, what you DO get is gorgeous views of the river and landscape from atop Mt. Pisgah. You also get open space to roam and run around. And my son's favorite part are the rocks! He loves to climb and explore. It's almost possible for me to give any park less than five stars--especially one with such a beautiful view. You won't regret the trip to visit this park. I'm just lucky that it's only 15 minutes from home. P.S. Go read Christopher C.'s review--it's very thorough and well-written. read more

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Great local place to go for a hike, wooded trail is awesome and very quiet place to walk and enjoy yourself.

This is probably the smallest of PA state parks that I have personally visited, but it sure is interesting for it's size. I'm giving it 5 stars based on the designated kite flying area. Out of over one hundred state parks, this is one of two that offer that feature. This is a great space to fly. Wide & open, incredible 360 degree view. The gradual hill is perfect for launching small kites. As far as the trails and woodland, I remember hiking some very short trails here in my college days and seeing some rock faces, but nothing incredibly impressive. I would like to try a multituse day where I hike, kite fly & picnic all in one. This park is incredible for it's view alone, another reason for the 5 star review. No need to hike up a vista, right off the parking lot you have a breathtaking scene of York County. Thankfully this park is only about 40 minutes away from me, so it's an easy travel. If you live within an hour or so, it's worth the visit for sure. read more

Samuel S. Lewis State Park - Designated kite flying hill. - Parks Near Me - York, Pennsylvania

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This is my favorite state park in York County. I've come here so many times since I was a little kid. You feel like you're so far from civilization even though you can see Route 30 in the distance. It's just so peaceful and serene. There are great walking trails, areas to have a picnic, playgrounds for the kids, and an amazing view of the Susquehanna River. There is also a frisbee golf course. The bathrooms are outhouses but they are clean and don't smell. Definitely come here to relax and connect with nature. read more

Samuel S. Lewis State Park - View of the Susquehanna River - Parks Near Me - York, Pennsylvania

This park was a childhood favourite of mine. Being high on a mountain gives great views of the river below. There are signs on the hill that show what you are looking at as well as some history of the area. Both benches and tables are present. The place is perfect for kite flying. Just off the hill are large rocks to climb as well as a small trail. read more

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Has a few swings, a sand box, a thing you sit in and spin, sea saws, big rocks you can climb on and a hill perfect for flying a kite. It also has an amazing view and a few small trails. read more