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Maryland
301

Maryland State Parks

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USA Parks
Maryland
Upper Eastern Shore Region
Susquehanna State Park
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Susquehanna State Park © Lynn Cordell
Susquehanna State Park © Lynn Cordell
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park Susquehanna River © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
Susquehanna State Park Carter Archer House © Mark Shartle
Carter Archer House HDR
Susquehanna State Park © Wayne Blottenberger
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SUSQUEHANNA STATE PARK
SUSQUEHANNA STATE PARK
4122 Wilkinson Road
Havre de Grace, Maryland   21078

Phone: 410-734-9035
Reservations: 888-432-2267
Located along the Susquehanna River valley with its heavy forest cover and massive rock outcroppings, Susquehanna State Park offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities as well as historical significance. The park is home to some of the most popular mountain biking trails in Maryland and the river itself beacons fishermen and boaters alike. Susquehanna State Park also contains a very family friendly campground with traditional campsites and cabins. History buffs will be drawn to the restored Rock Run Historical Area with its working grist mill, the Archer Mansion, Jersey Toll House and the remains of the Susquehanna Tidewater Canal. This is a Maryland State Park. For full information go to the official webpage. (Link on the right side)
History of the Area
The West Branch Susquehanna River was a travel route for settlers to the interior of Pennsylvania. In 1833, the West Branch Division of the Pennsylvania Canal opened from Northumberland to Lock Haven, passing through the current state park. By the late 1800s, logging became the main industry of the area. At this time it was not uncommon in the spring to find the river jammed bank-to-bank with timber floating to mills downstream.

The initial land for the park was purchased for flood control. Susquehanna State Park was created through the joint efforts of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Williamsport. The park occupies the floodplain between the river and the flood control levy. The park is the only ?riverfront recreational area? constructed by the former Department of Forests and Waters, a precursor to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The park opened to the public in 1961.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Picnickingyes
 Bike Trailsyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
Boating
Boating: unlimited hp motors permitted

A boat launch provides access to the West Branch Susquehanna River and the 652-acre Hepburn Street Dam that is deep enough for water-skiing.

Non-powered boats must have one of the following: launching permit or mooring permit from Pennsylvania State Parks, available at most state park offices; or boat registration or launching permit from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Motorboats must display a current boat registration.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy freshwater fishing in the Susquehanna River, where species like smallmouth bass and walleye are abundant. The river also hosts catfish, northern pike and muskellunge. For trout enthusiasts, Deer Creek is a popular spot during spring season when it's stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing licenses are required for those 16 years or older.



Picnicking
Riverside picnic tables are scattered throughout the area. A picnic pavilion may be reserved by calling 570-326-2500. If unreserved, the picnic pavilion is available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts should be aware that the park offers over 15 miles of marked and maintained trails.

However, it's important to note these paths range from moderate to difficult in terms of terrain.

The Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway Trail is a popular choice for cyclists seeking an easier ride.

For those looking for more challenging routes, consider exploring the Ridge or Farm Roads Trails instead.

Remember though: some areas are steep and rocky so ensure you're well-prepared before setting off on your journey!

Also keep in mind that all bikers must yield right-of-way to horseback riders as per park rules.

It's crucial too not forget helmets - they're mandatory when biking within this area!
Birding
The park offers a diverse range of bird species, ideal for birdwatching. It includes habitats like deciduous forests and river valleys which attract various birds such as warblers, woodpeckers, hawks and eagles. Bird enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails to spot these creatures in their natural environment. The best time for this activity is during spring migration season.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
February 26 Magical Place by funnypie
park review stars; one to five My best friend and I spent most of our college years and early 20s driving around or exploring Susquehanna State Park and the surrounding region. To me it will always seem to be almost a magical place, and although I now live many states away and may never get to go back, I am just grateful for the memories of this beautiful place. I especially loved driving around at night. It was real nice and peaceful, and very safe in the early 1990s...and I bet it still is today). We went rafting there too, which was quite an adventure. And we once thought we saw a UFO. And one time we got pulled over inexplicably by military police! They just said there were doing something top secret and we had to go around a different way. Lots of strange and wonderful memories there. It will always be in my opinion one of the greatest spots on Earth!
September 21 Beautiful wildflowers
park review stars; one to five I love walking the Greenway trail.
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Area Campgrounds
Bar Harbor RV Park
4228 Birch Avenue
Abingdon, MD
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Ann's Sporting Goods
2519 Shuresville Rd
Darlington, MD
(410) 457-5182
Port Side Inc
130 S Main St
Port Deposit, MD
(410) 378-3134
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

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Maryland
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Maryland State Parks

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