"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)

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The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.

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🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau

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