Plan Your Visit

Plan on half a day at Ridley Creek State Park for a hike and a picnic. Entry is free, the park is open sunrise to sunset, and there are restrooms at each of the 14 picnic areas. First-time hikers should take the 4.3-mile White Trail loop; families with small children or strollers do better on the paved multi-use trail and a playground at Picnic Area 3, 8, 11 or 17. Download DCNR's park map first, because cell service is unreliable.

Before You Leave Home

1. Check DCNR's Ridley Creek alerts page for closures. In 2026 the park closes on December 3 and December 10 for controlled deer hunts.
2. Download the park map PDF (Trail Map).
3. Pack water, snacks, bug spray and sturdy shoes; the blazed trails have roots and rocks.
4. Bring a leash and bags if your dog is coming (Dogs).
5. Leave alcohol and drones at home (Rules).

Three Ways to Spend the Day

The classic hike. Park near the White Trail, walk the 4.3-mile loop, then picnic at the nearest area (White Trail).

The family day. Start at a playground area (3, 8, 11 or 17), ride bikes or push a stroller on the paved multi-use trail, grill lunch, and finish with the 1-mile Mansion Gardens loop. Area 8 has a sensory playground.

The history loop. Walk or bike the paved trail past the old mill village of Sycamore Mills, visit the Hunting Hill Mansion gardens and the Franklin tree, and on a weekend from April to November, stop at the Colonial Pennsylvania Farmstead (separate admission).

Seasons

• Spring: DCNR's programs start in April.
• Summer: shady woods; there is no swimming, so plan for heat.
• Fall: the canopy turns, the Franklin tree blooms in early autumn, and deer season begins. Wear bright colors (Hunting).
• Winter: sledding by the park office and cross-country skiing when it snows (Winter).

Programs and Groups

DCNR runs public programs at Ridley Creek from April through November: guided walks, hands-on activities and special events. Schools can book environmental education programs, and DCNR suggests booking at least three months ahead; other organized groups should book early. Find dates on DCNR's events calendar.

Accessibility

The paved Sycamore Mills Road Trail is DCNR's accessible route. Pavilions 11A and 11B, the ADA fishing platform and accessible picnic tables are ADA accessible; contact the park office about a vehicle permit for the fishing platform. If you need an accommodation for a program, contact the park ahead of time.

Good to Know

• There is no campground for individuals (Camping).
• The park office is in the mansion: 610-892-3900, RidleyCreekSP@pa.gov.
• Electric vehicle charging: two plugs in the mansion lot.
• Emergencies: call 911. Nearest hospital: Riddle Hospital, Media.