Discover Dutch Country Roads' Great Places to Picnic
Samuel S. Lewis State Park

c/o Gifford Pinchot
Lewisberry, PA 17339-9787
717-432-5011

This 85-acre state park is dominated by Mt. Pisgah, an 885-foot high ridge separating Kreutz Creek Valley and East Prospect Valley. The overlook offers a spectacular view of the Susquehanna River Valley. The park landscape consists of mowed grass fields on the northern and eastern park slopes, pine plantations in the southern area and mature woods on the western section of the park.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park was named to honor the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Forest and Waters from 1951-1954. Samuel S. Lewis donated 35 acres of his farm to the Commonwealth in 1954. Lewis convinced Walter Stine to sell his arboretum to the Commonwealth for a reasonable price. The Commonwealth then purchased an additional 35 acres of the adjacent Almoney Farm to complete the initial park tract. The park opened to the public on July 4, 1954. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources purchased an additional 14 acres of land in 1999.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park is in southcentral Pennsylvania, York County, and is about 12 miles east of York, Pennsylvania. From the Wrightsville exit of US 30 follow Cool Creek Road south about 1.5-miles to Mt. Pisgah Road and the park.

Picnicking: There are picnic tables, a ball field and playground equipment. Three picnic pavilions may be reserved up to 11 months in advance for a fee by calling 888-PA-PARKS. Unreserved picnic pavilions are free on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hiking: 1 mile of trails
The short hiking trails allow exploration of the pine forests and pass near interesting rock formations.

Kite Flying: The crest of Mt. Pisgah is an excellent area for kite flying. Local groups and individuals gather to show their skills and offer help to novice kite fliers.

Scenic View
The 885-foot high Mt. Pisgah is the highest point in the area and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Susquehanna River and the towns and fertile farmlands that it borders. A wayside panel is on the summit of Mt. Pisgah near Pavilion C and identifies various points of interest along the river valley. Coin operated binoculars are available.

Mt. Pisgah offers an uninterrupted view of the stars. Local clubs and organizations frequently hold star gazing events for the public.

The natural and scenic backdrop provides a popular site for weddings. Contact the park office for more information on planning a wedding in the park.