Cook Forest State Park
The 8,500-acre Cook Forest State Park and 3,136-acre Clarion River Lands lie in scenic northwestern Pennsylvania.
Known for its stands of old growth forest, the park’s Forest Cathedral of towering white pines and hemlocks is a National Natural Landmark.
A scenic 13-mile stretch of the Clarion River flows through Cook Forest State Park and is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.
Clear Creek State Park is only 11 miles away.
Seasons and Hours
The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. Day use areas close at dusk.
The park office is open specific hours. Overnight areas and other areas are open specific seasons and hours. Contact the park office for facility seasons and hours.
Reservations
Make
online reservations or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday to Saturday.
Directions
From the east, take Exit 78 off of I-80, then PA 36 north directly to the park in Cooksburg.
From the west, take Exit 60 off of I-80, then take PA 66 north to Leeper. From Leeper, follow PA 36 south, seven miles to the park.
GPS DD: Lat. 41.33292 Long. -79.20915
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available outside the old park office located at 113 River Road.
Scenic Views
Two scenic views are accessible from Fire Tower Road, about 1.5 miles from Route 36:
From the rock ledges of Seneca Point Overlook, you can see the Clarion River Valley. Do not walk or climb on the rock outcroppings outside of the fenced area. These rock ledges are hazardous.
An 80-foot climb up Historic Fire Tower #9 reveals a breathtaking view of the entire area. On a clear day, you can see points 15 to 20 miles away.
Sawmill Center for the Arts
A
local, non-profit craft organization housed in the historic sawmill offers traditional crafts, a gift shop, and classes. Demonstrations and classes on various crafts are presented throughout the summer and fall.
The Verna Leith Sawmill Theater presents plays, musicals, and other entertainment throughout the summer season.
Learn, Experience, Connect
Through hands-on activities, guided walks, and evening programs, participants gain appreciation, understanding, and develop a sense of stewardship toward natural and cultural resources. Programs are offered year round.
Curriculum-based environmental education programs are available to schools and youth groups. Teacher workshops are available. Group programs must be scheduled in advance by calling the park office.
The Log Cabin Environmental Learning Center
The center offers indoor space for programs and displays historic logging and rafting tools, models, and artifacts.
Do Not Feed Wildlife
Black bears are native to this area. All food should be put away after use and kept in a tight, secure container in the trunk of a car or in a camper.
Feeding wildlife is prohibited. When wildlife loses its fear of people, these animals can become pests, and dangerous situations can result.
Access for People with Disabilities
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit.
In an Emergency
Call 911 and contact a park employee.
Directions to the nearest hospital are posted on bulletin boards and at the park office.
Nearest Hospital
Clarion Hospital
One Hospital Drive
Clarion, PA 16214
814-226-9500