Ricketts Glen State Park | Allentown

Here is a comprehensive and detailed guide to Ricketts Glen State Park, covering its geography, history, trails, waterfalls, lodging, recreation, and visitor information.

Overview

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse parks in Pennsylvania. Spanning over 13,193 acres, the park straddles Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties in northeastern Pennsylvania. It is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The park is most famous for its Glens Natural Area, which contains a concentration of waterfalls along three major streams: Kitchen Creek, Ganoga Glen, and Glen Leigh.

Natural Features

Glens Natural Area

Designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969.

Contains old-growth forest with trees over 300 years old.

Home to hemlock and mixed hardwood forest, dense undergrowth, and a moist, temperate microclimate ideal for waterfalls and moss-covered ravines.

Waterfalls

The Falls Trail System showcases 22 named waterfalls.

Ganoga Falls is the tallest at 94 feet.

Other notable falls:

Tuscarora Falls (47 ft)

Mohican Falls (39 ft)

Oneida Falls (13 ft)

B. Reynolds Falls (40 ft)

F.L. Ricketts Falls (38 ft)

Each waterfall has unique features in terms of drop type, rock formation, and surrounding vegetation.

Hiking and Trails

Falls Trail System

Distance: 7.2 miles (full loop), 3.2 miles (shorter loop)

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Features: Traverses steep, rocky gorges with footbridges, staircases, and switchbacks

Important Notes:

Trail is often slippery and steep

Proper hiking boots required

Dogs must be leashed

Closed in winter unless you have proper ice gear

Other Trails

Evergreen Trail (1 mile): Easy nature trail featuring interpretive signs and Adams Falls (36 ft).

Cherry Run Trail (4.6 miles): Travels through meadows, forest, and former logging railroad beds.

Laurel View Trail (1.9 miles): Loop trail with vistas overlooking the valley.

Old Beaver Dam Road Trail (4 miles): A longer backcountry-style hike.

Mountain Springs Trail (4 miles): Leads to remote, quiet areas near Lake Leigh.

Beach Trail, Bear Walk, Highland Trail: Connect beach and falls areas, good for combining routes.

Camping and Lodging

Campground

120 campsites, available from April through December.

Some sites have electricity.

Pet-friendly sites available.

Amenities:

Restrooms with hot showers

Dump stations

Fire rings and picnic tables

Cabins

10 modern cabins, available year-round.

Equipped with heat, electricity, kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms.

Accommodate 4–6 people.

Cabin H is ADA accessible.

Deluxe Cottages

5 units, open mid-April to mid-October.

Includes kitchenette, porch, electric heat.

Sleeps up to 5.

All are ADA accessible.

Organized Group Tenting

Accommodates up to 240 people.

Available for scout groups, schools, and large outdoor gatherings.

Lake Jean Recreation Area

Boating

Lake Jean is a 245-acre lake open to electric motorboats and paddlers.

Boat rentals available in summer (canoes, kayaks, paddleboats).

Boat launch ramp and mooring areas present.

Fishing

Warm-water fishery including:

Largemouth bass

Panfish

Trout (stocked)

Pickerel

A Pennsylvania fishing license is required.

Swimming

600-foot sand beach at Lake Jean.

Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.

No lifeguards—swim at your own risk.

Adjacent picnic areas, restrooms, and a food concession.

Winter Activities

Ice Fishing on Lake Jean

Snowmobiling on designated trails

Cross-Country Skiing across open fields and forest roads

Ice Climbing on frozen waterfalls in the Glens Natural Area (for experienced climbers only)

Wildlife and Nature Observation

Ricketts Glen is rich in biodiversity. Common wildlife includes:

White-tailed deer

Black bear

Wild turkey

Red fox

Barred owl

Pileated woodpecker

Birdwatching is excellent year-round, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Picnicking and Day Use

Multiple picnic areas with charcoal grills, pavilions, and tables.

Pavilion rentals available online for group gatherings.

Playgrounds near the beach and day-use areas.

Visitor Tips

Peak Season: May to October; weekends are especially busy.

Best Waterfall Viewing: Spring (after snowmelt) or after heavy rain.

Dress: Waterproof hiking shoes, layered clothing, rain protection.

Water & Snacks: Bring your own—limited concessions available.

Phone Service: Limited in many areas.

Permits: Required for ice climbing and organized group activities.

Accessibility: Limited to ADA cabins and select areas; most trails are rugged.

Park Information

Address:
Ricketts Glen State Park
695 State Route 487
Benton, PA 17814

Phone: 570-477-5675
Open: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Camping season: April to December (cabins year-round)

Reservations:
Through the PA State Parks Reservation System at 888-PA-PARKS or online.

Nearby Attractions

Worlds End State Park (approx. 45 minutes north)

Loyalsock State Forest

Lake Jean picnic and beach area

Red Rock Mountain Overlook

Historic covered bridges in Columbia County

Summary:
Ricketts Glen State Park is a premier outdoor destination for waterfall enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Whether you are seeking a peaceful lake retreat, a challenging mountain hike, or a scenic family picnic, the park offers an unforgettable experience rooted in Pennsylvania’s natural beauty.