Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Ridley Creek State Park, an independent guide built from Pennsylvania DCNR's official pages. The park is free, open every day from sunrise to sunset, and covers more than 2,606 acres of woods and meadows in Delaware County, 16 miles from Center City Philadelphia. DCNR lists 13 miles of trails, including a paved multi-use trail, 14 picnic areas and the Hunting Hill Mansion. Dogs are welcome on a leash; swimming and alcohol are not allowed.
Visiting
See Hours & Fees, Parking & Directions and Plan Your Visit for the details behind these answers.
Ridley Creek State Park Questions
Is Ridley Creek State Park free?
Yes. Pennsylvania state parks charge no entrance or day-use fees. Reserved pavilions, group tenting and mansion events cost extra.
What are the hours at Ridley Creek State Park?
Sunrise to sunset, every day of the year. Day-use areas close at dusk. In 2026 the park closes completely on December 3 and December 10 for controlled deer hunts.
Where is Ridley Creek State Park?
In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, near Media and Newtown Square, about 16 miles from Center City Philadelphia. The main entrance is on Sandy Flash Drive South at Gradyville Road.
Who runs Ridley Creek State Park?
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of State Parks. The park office is at 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, 610-892-3900.
How big is Ridley Creek State Park?
More than 2,606 acres of woodlands and meadows, divided by Ridley Creek.
Are dogs allowed at Ridley Creek State Park?
Yes, on a leash, caged or crated and under physical control. Pets are not allowed inside buildings.
Can you swim in Ridley Creek?
No. State park rules ban swimming outside designated swimming areas, and Ridley Creek has none.
Can you camp at Ridley Creek State Park?
Only organized groups, in a 120-person tenting area from April to October. There is no public campground.
How many miles of trails are at Ridley Creek?
DCNR's hiking page lists 13 miles of trails. They include a paved multi-use loop (4.3 miles on the hiking page) and a 4.7-mile bridle trail.
What is the best hike at Ridley Creek State Park?
The White Trail, a 4.3-mile blazed loop through the woods that can be used to link to other trails.
Can you bike at Ridley Creek State Park?
Yes, on the paved multi-use trail along Sycamore Mills Road and Forge Road and on park roads. Not on the unpaved hiking trails.
Is there fishing at Ridley Creek?
Yes. The creek is stocked with trout. From Sycamore Mills Dam to the mouth of Dismal Run it is catch and release, fly fishing only.
What is the mansion at Ridley Creek State Park?
Hunting Hill Mansion, built in 1915 around a 1789 farmhouse. It holds the park office and hosts weddings of up to 150 guests.
Can you have a wedding at Ridley Creek State Park?
Yes, at Hunting Hill Mansion, booked through Parque at Ridley Creek State Park, 484-580-8260.
Does Ridley Creek State Park have a playground?
Yes, in Picnic Areas 3, 8, 11 and 17, plus a sensory playground in Area 8.
Is Tyler Arboretum part of Ridley Creek State Park?
No. Tyler Arboretum is a separate nonprofit on the park's southern boundary with its own admission fee.
Is alcohol allowed at Ridley Creek State Park?
No. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Is there a waterfall at Ridley Creek State Park?
DCNR's Ridley Creek pages and park map do not list a waterfall. The park's water feature is Ridley Creek itself, with the Sycamore Mills Dam.
Can you go sledding at Ridley Creek?
Yes. DCNR says the large grassy slope by the park office is popular for sledding.
Is there cell service at Ridley Creek State Park?
DCNR calls cell service unpredictable in state parks. Download the park map before you go.