Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Open During Federal Government Shutdown

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Acting Secretary Ellen Ferretti today reminded Pennsylvanians that state parks and forests are open for business as usual, although national parks are closed because of the federal government shutdown.

"There is a Pennsylvania state park within 25 miles of every resident offering an array of recreational activities including camping, hiking, fishing, paddling, biking and wildlife watching," Ferretti said. "Fall is an especially great time to visit a state park or forest, as Pennsylvania has a longer and more varied fall foliage season than any state in the nation."

Pennsylvania's 120 state parks and 20 state forest districts are open year round. Entrance to Pennsylvania state parks and forests is free.

For details on Pennsylvania's state parks and forests visit the DCNR website at www.dcnr.state.pa.us. 

To take a virtual tour of some of the best fall foliage sites, and Pennsylvania's 20 must see parks, choose the "Story Map" icon on the left side of the home page.

"The new interactive Story Map feature on the website combines information, photos, and interactive map-related functions," Ferretti said. "The maps serve as virtual visits to the wide variety of Pennsylvania natural wonders, recreational amenities, and conservation-focused points of interest that we're fortunate to have in Pennsylvania."

Other story maps include: outstanding geologic features in Pennsylvania; an old growth forest tour; notable design and architecture sites; and the state park first-time camper program.

To make a reservation for an overnight stay, call 1-888-PA-PARKS between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday or go to www.visitPAparks.com.

Media contact: Christina Novak, DCNR, 717-772-9101

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

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