Think Outside with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation

“I just really like attracting other people to get outside. That’s kind of my goal right now, is to get as many people outdoors as possible.”Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with two Pennsylvania hikers turned social media influencers, OneEyeWanderz and TheDapperHiker, who are reshaping how people discover the state's outdoor spaces through authentic storytelling and hard-won experience.Dapper began hiking after losing 150 pounds starting in 2022. His first backpacking trip to Quehanna State Forest (a rain-soaked, 26-mile ordeal where hypothermia threatened) paradoxically hooked him on wilderness exploration. The trail name came when OneEye spotted him grooming his mustache mid-hike and declared him "dapper." His Instagram grew from 84 to 3,500 followers within a year by showcasing Pennsylvania's often-overlooked trails.OneEye had hiked Pennsylvania since childhood but resisted social media until a pine branch almost left him to live up to his moniker. Multiple surgeries saved his vision but changed his perspective. Suddenly, sharing nature's beauty became urgent. Both guys now balance full-time jobs with creating content that demystifies outdoor access.Their philosophy rejects gatekeeping. They share exact locations, fishing flies used, and trail conditions. Basically, everything newcomers need. For one thing, they don’t believe that you need $200 hiking boots to get started (OneEye's brother successfully hiked in duct-taped moon boots early on!).Pennsylvania offers what western states do "on a smaller screen": free state parks, terrain changing every mile, and accessible adventures. The guys’ top recommendations include Quehanna for experienced hikers seeking elk and diverse ecosystems, Ricketts Glen for beginners wanting waterfalls, and Cook Forest for families. They advocate Leave No Trace principles while acknowledging most outdoor experiences don't require 23-mile treks. Key Topics:●     Inspiration to Get Outdoors (1:24)●     Pennsylvania's Unique Diversity (6:49)●     Removing the Gatekeeper (14:41)●     Leave No Trace Advocacy (23:18)●     Park Recommendations (34:44)●     Type 2 Fun Philosophy (39:50) Resources:·     OneEyeWanderz on Instagram·     TheDapperHiker on Instagram·     ITravel_4Coffee on Instagram·     Elk State Forest Fundraiser·     How to Take a Picture of a Fish·     Podcast Episode on Loyalsock State Forest·     Podcast Episode on Worlds End State Park·     Happy Little Trees Program

“There are families that have been coming here for five generations, and occasionally all five are here. And that's pretty amazing.”Our host, Marci Mowery, is joined by Environmental Education Specialist Jane Swift, who shares why World's End State Park has captivated visitors for 93 years in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region.Controversy sparked the park's beginning when geologists in 1932 wanted to name it after the S-shaped whirlpool in Loyalsock Creek, but locals insisted on "World's End." A discovered 1940s map proved them right. Today, this Sullivan County gem offers adventures around every trail curve with seven scenic vistas, some accessible by car for those unable to hike the canyon's 700-foot elevation changes.Jane, who has been educating visitors since 1998, transforms the park into a living classroom. From maple syrup production using the park's abundant sugar maples to wildflower walks highlighting spring ephemera, she connects generations to nature. Her proudest memory involves hosting Pennsylvania Outdoor Life's TV crew, sharing edible plants and sumac-ade by the creek.The park's 19 rustic cabins welcome winter guests seeking fireside retreats, while summer brings swimmers to the perpetually refreshing Loyalsock Creek. CCC workers transformed this logged-out landscape in the 1930s, building the infrastructure still enjoyed today. Frank Sattler, a CCC alumnus, even donated a detailed model of camp life displayed in the visitor center.Families return generation after generation, drawn by poor cell service that forces real connection. The Friends of World's End enhance experiences through volunteer work and the famous Mud Day celebration each June. As Jane notes, this is where "adventure, forest, and creek" create irreplaceable family memories in Pennsylvania's wilderness. Key Topics:Park Name Controversy and Origin (1:21)Maple Syrup Production and Pancake Breakfast (5:57)Fall Foliage and Seven Park Vistas (12:13)Winter Cabin Stays and Activities (14:56)CCC History and Park Development (18:23)Fossil Exhibits and Ancient Lungfish (21:44)Indigenous History and Pioneer Trail (24:11)Family Activities and Disconnecting (28:33)Friends Group Support and Volunteerism (32:18)Annual Mud Day Celebration (33:38) Resources:Worlds End State ParkFriends of Worlds End State ParkFriends of Worlds End State Park FacebookLoyalsock State ForestEndless Mountain RegionCivilian Conservation Corps🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus...

"Some say that the best thing about this park is that there is no cell signal. If you need to disconnect from the world, from the electronic world, you can do that here."Our host, Marci Mowery, sits down with Park Manager Mike Crowley as he reveals why RB Winter State Park remains a cherished destination for families seeking authentic outdoor experiences in Pennsylvania's wilderness.Nestled within 200,000 acres of Bald Eagle Forest, this 695-acre park offers a unique blend of history and nature. Built by CCC workers in 1933, it features Pennsylvania's first stone and concrete dam of its kind—a testament to lost craftsmanship that modern construction can't replicate.Despite locals still calling it "Halfway Dam" (its name until 1957), the park has evolved into a multi-generational favorite. From its frigid 45-degree spring-fed lake to miles of rocky mountain biking trails, RB Winter offers a great challenge for outdoor thrill seekers of all levels. The park office hummingbird feeders attract dozens of ruby-throats, while the pristine Rapid Run Nature Trail preserves near-virgin hemlock forests.Mike manages not just RB Winter but three additional parks, including Pennsylvania's smallest at three acres. After weathering devastating storms that destroyed pavilions and hundreds of trees, the park has rebounded with increased biodiversity. He advises visitors to bring layers, grab a paper map (cell service doesn't exist here), and in general, enjoy the great outdoors without all the distractions of modern technology! Key Topics:Park History and CCC Legacy (0:56)Park Features and Cold Lake Waters (4:52)Educational Programs and School Visits (7:13)Mountain Biking and Gravel Roads (8:36)Visitor Safety and Map Reading (11:54)The Four-Park Complex (14:15)Storm Damage and Forest Recovery (17:40)Events: Winter Fest and Dam Half Marathon (21:27)The Famous Hummingbird Feeders (26:22)Management Challenges and Weather (30:48) Resources:Raymond B. Winter State Park (website)Friends of Raymond B. Winter State Park (website)Friends of Raymond B. Winter State Park (Facebook)Halfway to Winter (history booklet)Ravensburg State Park (website)Sand Bridge State Park (website)McCalls Dam State Park (website)🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New...

“There's a lot of days where I kind of have to pinch myself and realize, ‘Oh, I'm out hiking a trail that somebody probably took off work to go hike, but I get to do it and get paid.’”From boat patrols to timber theft investigations, DCNR Rangers Sam and Dani chat with our host Marci Mowery about the diverse and demanding world of protecting Pennsylvania's parks and forests and their visitors.With over 30 years of combined experience, these stewards balance multiple roles—educator, law enforcement officer, conservationist, and much more. Whether it's helping lost hikers find their way, protecting endangered plant species, or managing crowds during busy holiday weekends, no two days are alike.Sam patrols 97,000 acres of Rothrock State Forest with just one partner, relying on a network of regular visitors as "eyes and ears." Meanwhile, Dani navigates the "urban jungle" of Codorus State Park, where eagles nest and visitors need guidance on everything from alcohol restrictions to wildlife encounters.Both rangers believe that enforcement often starts with education, as visitors navigate varying regulations across states and between parks and forests. Despite challenges—from public misconceptions about law enforcement to physically demanding rescues in 95-degree heat—they find deep satisfaction in protecting resources for future generations and their visitors.To aspiring rangers, they encourage being mission-driven, physically fit, and prepared for weekends, holidays, and maybe even the odd four-foot snakebite story from an adventurous young visitor! Key Topics:●     A Ranger’s Daily Responsibilities: Parks vs. Forests (5:40)●     Balancing Education and Enforcement (8:53)●     Memorable Interactions and Stories (11:11)●     Rangers' Role in Conservation (16:06)●     Challenges of Modern Ranger Work (21:35)●     Search and Rescue Prevention Tips (24:30)●     Advice for Aspiring Rangers (26:07) Resources:·     To learn more about Ranger careers, click here·     Codorus State Park·     Rothrock State Forest·     DCNR Ranger Coloring and Activity Book (English)·     DCNR Ranger Coloring and Activity Book (Spanish)🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and...

“You can't help but be changed by being involved in this program, whether it's through training, working with other people, interpersonal skills, leadership, all those types of things, problem solving, [etc.]"Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps continues to shape the next generation of conservation leaders through hands-on work, meaningful mentorship, and powerful partnerships.Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with program director Mike Piaskowski, who shares how this youth and young adult initiative has grown from a small pilot to a workforce pipeline that reaches across parks, forests, and community spaces throughout the Commonwealth.Crews aged 15–25 tackle everything from trail restoration to pavilion construction and even archaeological site preservation. Through real-world problem solving, teamwork, and technical training—including chainsaw safety, CPR, and OSHA certification—participants build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong conservation ethic. With over 1,500 alumni and growing, the program has already placed graduates in agencies like DCNR, the Game Commission, and beyond.The Outdoor Corps also offers specialty crews, including one focused on cultural resources and another for American Sign Language inclusion—proving that the program’s reach is both wide and deeply personal. Above all, it creates space for growth, connection, and knowledge transfer between generations. Key Topics:●     Outdoor Corps Mission and Origins (01:36)●     Technical Projects and Training (03:34)●     Team Building and Growth Mindset (06:50)●     Partnerships and Public Benefit (13:16)●     Career Pathways and Alumni Impact (15:31)●     Specialty Crews and Inclusion (18:38)●     How to Join or Support the Corps (23:27)●     Vision for the Future (29:26) Resources:Mike Piaskowski: Mpiaskowsk@pa.gov | 717-678-0040Apply for Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps JobsPennsylvania Outdoor Corps – Building Careers and Connections (video)🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel📸 a...

Tucked into the mountains of south-central Pennsylvania, Prince Gallitzin State Park is a scenic haven where lake recreation meets forest solitude. Our host, Marci Mowery, is joined by Park Manager Jess Lavelua, who paints a vivid picture of this 6,000-acre park anchored by Glendale Lake and its 1,600 acres of water.Whether you’re casting a line from a kayak, relaxing in a modern cabin with lake views, or attending one of the Friends Group’s massive fall events, Prince Gallitzin has something for everyone.There are 35 miles of underutilized trails, a thriving Friends group that powers festivals like Apple Cider Fest and Trunk or Treats, and a range of wildlife from bald eagles to mischievous beavers. For Jess, stewardship means everything—from planting trees to helping rescue an injured eagle. Prince Gallitzin is also a leader in sustainability with a large solar array feeding clean energy back into the park system.Come for the lake views, stay for the quiet moments—Prince Gallitzin is where nature makes you feel at home.Key Topics:Overview of Prince Gallitzin State Park’s Features (01:44)Camping, Cabins, and Boat Access (04:01)Trail System and Scenic Overlooks (05:52)Friends Group and Seasonal Events (07:21)Sustainability and Solar Power (10:27)Wildlife Encounters and Birding (16:31)Volunteer Opportunities and Programs (20:26)Quick-Fire Questions About the Park (25:02)Loaner Gear and First-Time Visitor Tips (28:44)Resources:Prince Gallitzin State ParkPrince Gallitzin State Park FacebookFriends of Prince Gallitzin State ParkFriends of Prince Gallitzin State Park FacebookDCNR Calendar of EventsCambria County🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel📸 Follow the podcast on Instagram🎶 a...

From primitive campsites deep in the woods to full-hookup RV spots and cozy yurts, Pennsylvania offers a wide spectrum of overnight options for every outdoor adventurer!Joined by our host Marci Mowery to discuss these camping and lodging options are Matt Crosbie, Non-motorized Recreation Specialist at the Bureau of Forestry, and Beth Grove, Park Operations Manager at the Bureau of State Parks.Matt breaks down the rustic side: 2.2 million acres of state forest provide opportunities for backpackers, roadside campers, and water trail explorers. Minimal amenities mean packing in—and out—is essential, but the payoff is solitude, waterfalls, and vast trail systems. Meanwhile, Beth showcases the more developed side, with over 6,000 campsites and 400 roofed facilities ranging from rustic cabins to the hotel-like Nature Inn.They also share a handful of pro tips: use the reservation system’s alert feature, check for permit rules, and always be a good steward. Whether you're an equestrian camper, a Scout group leader, or a first-timer trying out a modern cabin, there’s a fit for you.Start with a yurt, graduate to a trail, or settle into a lodge—Pennsylvania’s parks and forests meet you where you are!Key Topics:A Wide Range of Overnight Options (01:39)State Park Lodging: From Cabins to Yurts (05:22)Group and Family Campgrounds (10:05)Permits and Trailside Camping Tips (12:40)Reservation System Features (15:50)Equestrian Camping (20:12)Stewardship and Safety in the Outdoors (25:25)Best Spots for New Campers (32:28)Resources:Bureau of Forestry Camping Brochure, which gives an overview of camping types and the guidelines/rulesBureau of Forestry’s interactive map that shows all reservable state forest campsites. It provides the ability to view all at once, rather than district by district. It does then direct to the reservation systemMotorized Roadside CampingPrimitive Camping in State Forests and ParksBureau of ForestryBureau of State ParksDCNR EventsPPFF EventsState Park ReservationsCabins and Campsites and Yurts, Oh My! ArticleCamping EtiquetteTrailside Camping and State Forest Hiking...

“It’s embracing the solitude of the forest that I think brings the most amount of reward to people.”Nestled in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains, Loyalsock State Forest spans 115,000 acres across Sullivan, Bradford, and Lycoming counties. Our host, Marci Mowery, talks with District Forester Rich Glinski, who calls Loyalsock “rugged, pristine, and beautiful”—an apt summary for a forest full of remote waterfalls, cliff overlooks, and legacy trails like the 59-mile Loyalsock Trail and the historic Old Loggers Path.Named 2025’s Forest of the Year, Loyalsock is more than scenic; it's a dynamic landscape balancing recreation with energy development, timber management, and environmental conservation. Visitors hike, rock climb, fish, paddle, hunt, and drive along 130 miles of well-maintained forest roads. Popular sites include the Haystacks, Angel Falls, and High Knob Overlook, while lesser-known gems like Yellow Dog Falls reward the adventurous.Rich makes sure to highlight the deep-rooted human connection to the forest. Generations of families return here, often aided by decades of stewardship from volunteers like the Alpine Club of Williamsport. Rich histories, including Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) legacy sites and Indigenous trails such as the Sheshequin and Towanda Paths, quietly shape the terrain.Floods, wild weather, and even the occasional llama on a trail are all part of the forester’s unpredictable job. Still, seeing visitors having the time of their lives as they experience Loyalsock makes it all worth it for Rich. He urges newcomers to come prepared: maps over phones, water in the pack, and a plan shared with friends.Key Topics:Hidden Gems and Trails at Loyalsock State Forest (01:41)Forest of the Year and Resource Management (03:31)Historic Flooding and Climate Challenges (06:35)Loyal Sock and Old Loggers Path Trails (08:00)CCC History and Local Culture (14:36)Careers in Forestry (17:58)Volunteerism and Trail Clubs (25:39)Safety and Map Reading Tips (29:05)Recreation Opportunities (36:13)Resources:Loyalsock State ForestAlpine Club of WilliamsportLoyalsock State Forest FacebookLoyalsock TrailState Forest Hiking Trail MapsSong mentioned: Let’s Work Together - Canned Heat🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.a...

Pennsylvania is home to one of the most accessible state park systems in the nation. With 124 parks—and a 125th on the way—the state offers free admission and parking, a rarity in the U.S. This isn’t just policy; it’s principle. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with the Director of the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks, John Hallas, who states, these parks are 'democratizing spaces,' open to all, regardless of income or background.Each park reflects the state's natural and cultural diversity, from the historic battlegrounds of Valley Forge to the quiet trails of Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or exploring Revolutionary War sites, the experience is intentionally broad. It’s about meeting people where they are—physically, emotionally, and recreationally.During the pandemic, visitation to state parks jumped 27%, highlighting just how vital these spaces are for public health and well-being. Even as life returns to normal, use remains high. The state is responding with forward-thinking projects like expanded trail access, diverse overnight options including yurts and “great gathering” family sites, and the development of its first underground park, Laurel Caverns.These efforts are guided by the Penn’s Parks for All plan, a strategic blueprint focused on accessibility, infrastructure, and conservation. The state is also reinvesting in its aging facilities—many built during the Civilian Conservation Corps era—while adapting to modern recreation trends like e-bikes and paddleboards.Ultimately, Pennsylvania’s parks aren’t just green space. They’re public assets with cultural, economic, and environmental value. And in an era where so much comes at a cost, they remain free—on purpose.Key Topics:Defining “Conservation Area” (00:00)Why It’s Important to Have a Diversity of State Parks (04:04)Historic Sites in Pennsylvania’s State Parks (07:00)Why Free Admission to State Parks is a Right (11:24)About the Upcoming Underground State Park (14:44)Keeping Trails Well-Maintained (20:15)About the Penn’s Parks for All Plan (25:17)Resources:Pennsylvania Bureau of State ParksPenn’s Parks for AllPennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservations🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our...

“Starting and ending can depend on where your journey begins”Stretching just over 70 miles, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail winds through four Pennsylvania counties, crossing ridgelines, game lands, and private forests. Starting in Ohiopyle State Park, the trail climbs north through Somerset, Westmoreland, and Cambria, offering dramatic views, deep solitude, and hard-won miles. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Division Manager Mike Mumau about this beautiful area.It's not easy terrain—steep, rocky, and carved from the Appalachian Plateau—but that's part of the draw. As Mike puts it, the trail offers something rare: real quiet. Winter hikes are his favorite, when the forest is still and snow muffles every sound but your footsteps—and maybe a dog’s, too, since pets are welcome.Shelters appear every 8–10 miles, each with five Adirondack-style structures, two privies, and a primitive water source (bring a filter). In colder months, firewood is stocked to keep hikers warm. Maintenance is handled by the Laurel Hill Complex, supported by passionate volunteers like the Ridge Runners, many of whom began by training for the Laurel Highlands Ultra—a 70-mile trail race that requires entrants to give back with volunteer hours.Behind the scenes, partnerships with organizations like the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy helped secure key land parcels, and some original trail builders still return to help. The trail’s 50th anniversary marks not just its endurance, but the care and vision that shaped it through the years.Want to hike it? Call the Laurel Hill Complex. Staff know the trail and can suggest ideal sections based on your goals. For prep tips, check out Dane Cramer’s site and his book Romancing the Trail.This is more than a trail—it’s a shared legacy. One that challenges, welcomes, and rewards those who walk it.Key Topics:About Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (00:00)How the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Came to Be (06:23)What is a “Shelter Area”? (08:46)Long-Distance Trail Runs at Laurel Highlands (13:52)Reserving a Shelter (18:18)Learn More About Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (21:01)Resources:Laurel Highlands Hiking TrailHow to Support the Trail: Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail FundLaurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) Facebook GroupDane’s Place (website)Romancing the Trail (book)Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Facebook page🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify,

Nestled in Tioga County between Mansfield and Wellsboro, Hills Creek State Park offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by farmland. Unlike other regional parks, it’s bordered by private land, giving it a quiet, remote feel—yet it's conveniently close to town. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Division Manager Ben Stone about this beautiful area.A key feature is its 137-acre warm-water lake, great for year-round fishing, especially bass and panfish. In winter, it’s one of the first to freeze, with over a foot of ice this past season. For ice safety, 4 inches of clear ice is ideal, and it’s always best to go with a buddy and carry safety gear.Open year-round, Hills Creek features cabins, yurts, and 83 campsites, including full hookups and basic sites for tents. The yurts, perched by the lake, are upgraded with real windows, kitchenettes, and offer stunning views. The campground is family-friendly, with pet sites and low-speed roads perfect for kids on bikes.There are several scenic hiking trails, including parts of the Mid-State Trail and interpretive walks like Yellow Birch Trail. The park is also popular for wildlife and bird watching, especially during spring migrations and beaver activity around the lake.Maple syruping is a seasonal highlight. Visitors can watch traditional tapping and learn about syrup production—40 gallons of sap make one gallon of syrup! Hills Creek has even won friendly syrup-making competitions among state parks.The park is maintained by a dedicated team, including office staff, maintenance workers, educators, and rangers. They work year-round to keep facilities running and assist visitors. Career paths in the park system range from internships to full-time roles in law enforcement and environmental education.As part of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Hills Creek is surrounded by state forests and trails, including the Pine Creek Rail Trail. Whether you're camping, hiking, or birding, it's a perfect spot to enjoy nature. Always plan ahead, let someone know your route, and enjoy all the park has to offer—safely.Key Topics:About Hills Creek State Park (00:00)Cabins and Campgrounds at Hills Creek (06:16)The Lakeside Trail and Other Recreational Amenities (11:24)Wildlife at the Park (14:14)Maple Syruping at Hills Creek (16:07)Employment Opportunities at the Park (20:29)Resources:Hills Creek State ParkVirtual tour of Hills Creek State Park🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our weekly...

Presque Isle State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most visited and ecologically diverse parks—an ever-changing landscape shaped by wind, water, and time.Today our host Marci Mowery chats with Matt Greene, Park Manager of Presque Isle and nearby Erie Bluffs, to explore what makes this peninsula on Lake Erie so unique.Presque Isle (meaning “almost island” in French) is home to a rare Great Lakes ecosystem, with more threatened and endangered species than any other similarly sized area in the state. With seven and a half miles of sandy shoreline, it offers not only guarded beaches and scenic trails but also opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and fishing. Its 13-mile multipurpose trail loops the park, revealing diverse views—from downtown Erie to quiet bays filled with migrating birds.Presque Isle’s dynamic nature sets it apart. Water levels and wind constantly reshape the shoreline, influencing erosion patterns and altering habitats. In one season, parts of the park may flood or recede, creating a landscape that looks entirely different from year to year. This constant motion feeds vibrant ecosystems and creates a haven for wildlife, including over 300 bird species. Warblers, purple martins, and gulls flock here, especially during key migration periods.Nearby Erie Bluffs offers a wilder experience—an undeveloped shoreline with prime beach glass hunting and fewer crowds. While Presque Isle is carefully maintained, including beach nourishment, the Bluffs present nature untouched.The park’s rich history includes the 1921 establishment of Presque Isle, its lighthouse-turned-museum, and even a D-Day reenactment on Beach 11.Matt believes that what makes the park special is how it changes—and how those changes leave lasting memories. Whether you’re spotting rare birds, catching bass, or simply walking the beach, no two visits are ever the same!Key Topics:What Makes Presque Isle a Must-Visit Destination? (00:00)Visitors Activities (01:47)Bird Life on Presque Isle (05:30)About Erie Bluffs (12:38)Other Presque Isle Activities (15:42)The Park’s History (19:52)What Matt Loves About Working in Presque Isle (27:08)Resources:DCNR WebsitePresque Isle State ParkErie Bluffs State ParkPresque Isle State Park on Facebook🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 a...

What do a legacy of conservation, a changing climate, and your own backyard have in common?As it turns out—everything. Our host, Marci Mowery is joined by Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn to discuss how public lands, local stewardship, and the wisdom of the past are shaping a greener future.Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests weren’t always the thriving natural havens they are today. In the late 1800s, widespread deforestation and environmental degradation inspired early conservationists like Joseph T. Rothrock and Mira Lloyd Dock to push for reform. Their efforts laid the groundwork for a movement that, decades later, would lead to the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which helped restore much of the landscape and built key infrastructure still in use today.Today, the work continues. With increasing threats from climate change, invasive species, and urbanization, conservation is more urgent—and more community-driven—than ever. A proposed 125th park may soon join the park system and the 2.2 million acres of state forests lands are managed with long-term sustainability in mind. Everyone can play a role. Whether it’s showing up to a park program, planting a native tree, or simply taking a new trail, active engagement matters. Nature doesn’t just belong to us—it’s part of us. And in preserving it, we’re preserving something far greater than scenery: we’re preserving our future.Key Topics:The DCNR’s Vision-Mission (00:00)The Creation of State Parks (06:53)Cindy’s Role in Preserving Water Quality (13:31)How Citizens Can Consider the Broader Subject of Conservation (18:13)Lawn to Meadow: Replacing Invasive with Native Plants (23:34)DCNR’s Current and Future Initiatives (28:37)Resources:DCNR Website“Ramblings” at Penn-Roosevelt: A Look at African American CCC Camp S-62Penn-Roosevelt Quintet: Music and Entertainment at Camp S-62Education at Camp S-62The Unsung Contributions of CCC Company 303-C at Clearfield NurseryThe “Maroon Devils” of Company 361-C: Sports at Camp S-62Volunteerism with Friends Groups🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Think Outside! Marci Mowery and Pam Metzger kick things off with an introduction to the podcast and the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF). They also reflect on some of their favorite outdoor adventures!In Pennsylvania, the outdoors offer more than recreation—they offer renewal. Whether through hiking, cycling, photography, or simply sitting quietly under a tree, Marci and Pam believe that time spent in nature is a boon to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.While the mission of the Foundation is to inspire stewardship of state parks and forests, a goal is toto ensure a place and an experience for everyone in the outdoors. As a nonprofit partner to the state’s parks and forests, PPFF empowers people to get involved through volunteering, advocacy, or simply showing up. With 46 Friends Groups across the state, they help protect public lands and make them more accessible for future generations.Access matters. Nature is not a luxury; it’s public good. And everyone, regardless of background or ability, should have the chance to benefit from it. PPFF champions that belief through everything from infrastructure improvements to educational resources like park guides and fact sheets. Whether you're seeking solitude, family-friendly trails, or a chance to give back, there’s an entry point for all stages of life.In a time when so much demands our attention, the outdoors remains a constant—a place to reset, reflect, and reconnect. And thanks to organizations like PPFF, these spaces continue to belong to all of us. Protected. Preserved. And always open.Key Topics:The Vision-Mission of the PPFF (01:47)Take 5 Fridays with Pam (04:06)About Marci Mowery and Pam Metzger (07:21)Favorite Outdoor Adventures (15:45)Resources:Sign up for Take Five, Fridays with PamDownload the Guide to Wild and Natural Areas🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel📸 Follow the podcast on Instagram🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau📱 Follow PPFF on:

Welcome to Think Outside with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation!Think Outside is your guide to outdoor opportunities, nature exploration, and wellness. Discover expert tips, inspiring stories, and new ways to connect with the great outdoors for a healthier, happier life.🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved!👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel📸 Follow the podcast on Instagram🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau📱 Follow PPFF on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeMeetUp