Ricketts Glen State Park
- Status
- Open (per official listing)Daily sunrise – sunset
- Entrance fee
- Not posted
- Day-use reservations
- None mentioned
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed
- Camping
- 120 campsitesAlso cabins, yurts
- Official site
- pa.gov(570) 477-5675
Official page last checked Oct 29, 2026. Details last changed Oct 29, 2026. How we keep this current
Current alerts 2
Partial closure 2027 Campground Closure: Ricketts Glen State ParkBeginning in 2027, the campground at Ricketts Glen will undergo a phased closure for a shower house upgrade project. The project includes major… (more)
Beginning in 2027, the campground at Ricketts Glen will undergo a phased closure for a shower house upgrade project. The project includes major renovations, as DCNR replaces outdated shower and restroom facilities with new, modern, and accessible amenities. Construction is expected to continue through 2029. During this time, portions of the campground will be temporarily closed while other areas remain open as work is completed in phases. Contractors will be working with machinery Monday through Friday. Campers are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly. We apologize for any inconvenience. Day use areas will remain open to visitors. Alternate overnight locations: • Worlds End State Park • Frances Slocum State Park • Promised Land State Park
Posted by the park 2025-11-03T10:53:00.000-05:00. Official alert
Alert TRAIL ADVISORY Falls Trail Update 3/30/26*TRAIL ADVISORY* Falls Trail Update 3/30/26: The Falls Trail is now fully open for the 2026 season.
Posted by the park. Official alert
Overview
In Luzerne County, about 18 miles northwest of Nanticoke, Ricketts Glen State Park covers about 12,995 acres.
The park supports cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, winter sports, and hunting in season. The official site lists about 26 miles of trails. Facilities for water recreation include a swimming beach, a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and boat or kayak rentals. Camping is available: 120 campsites across 2 camping areas, including RV sites, tent sites, and group camping. Roofed lodging includes cabins and yurts.
Hours
Park, gate, office and facility hours are listed separately because they often differ. Alerts above override normal hours.
| Facility | Days | Hours | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park | Daily | sunrise – sunset | — |
Official wording
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. The beach, overnight areas, and other areas are open specific seasons and hours. Contact the park office for facility seasons and hours.
Source: official park page, checked Oct 29, 2026. Times are local to the park (America/New York).
Reservations
- Day use
- No day-use reservation requirement mentioned
- Booking system
- ReserveAmerica (Aspira), Pennsylvania State Parks contract
- Phone
- 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)
We link to the official booking system rather than showing live availability, which changes minute to minute.
Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs are permitted in Cabins C, H, and I. Pets are permitted in Huron, Seneca, and Shawnee cottages. Pets are permitted at designated sites for a fee.
Service animals are generally permitted where pets are not. Check with the park for specific areas.
Camping
| Campground or site type | Sites | Hookups / features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camping Season: The majority of the campground opens in April and closes in December. A small number of sites remain open year round for winter camping. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground Map (PDF)
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. Multiple campsites are ADA accessible.
There are 120 tent and trailer campsites. The majority of the campground opens in April and closes in December. A small number of sites remain open year round for winter camping.
The campground features:
• Hot showers
• Flush toilets
• Shaded sites
• Gravel parking spurs
• Sanitary dump station
Pets are permitted at designated sites for a fee. | 120 | Showers | — |
| Organized Group Tenting Season: The area is open from mid-April to mid-October. Qualified adult and youth groups may use this 240-person capacity area that is equipped with picnic tables, water, and flush toilets.
The area is open from mid-April to mid-October.
Advance reservations are recommended. | — | — |
Camping details from the park
Camping
Ricketts Glen State Park Campground Map (PDF)
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. Multiple campsites are ADA accessible.
There are 120 tent and trailer campsites. The majority of the campground opens in April and closes in December. A small number of sites remain open year round for winter camping.
The campground features:
- Hot showers
- Flush toilets
- Shaded sites
- Gravel parking spurs
- Sanitary dump station
Pets are permitted at designated sites for a fee.
Organized Group Tenting
Qualified adult and youth groups may use this 240-person capacity area that is equipped with picnic tables, water, and flush toilets.
The area is open from mid-April to mid-October.
Advance reservations are recommended.
From the official park page, checked Oct 29, 2026. Site counts and prices can change; confirm when booking.
Cabins and lodging
- Modern Cabins: 10 units
- Deluxe Cottage: 5 units
Modern Cabins
Ricketts Glen State Park Cabin Map (PDF)
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. Cabin F and H are ADA accessible.
Ten modern rental cabins are available year-round. Cabins are furnished and have:
- Living area
- Kitchen/dining area
- Toilet/shower room
- Two or three bedrooms
Linens and dishes are not provided.
Dogs are permitted in Cabins C, H, and I.
Deluxe Cottage
Five deluxe cottages in the campground open in mid-April and close in mid-October.
The deluxe cottage sleeps five and has:
- Two rooms
- Two-burner electric range and a microwave oven
- Countertop and cabinets
- Refrigerator
- Table and chairs
- Wooden walls and floors
- Windows
- Electric lights and outlets
- Electric heatBunk beds
- Porch
- Picnic table and fire ring
- Nearby shower house
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. All deluxe cottages are ADA accessible.
Pets are permitted in Huron, Seneca, and Shawnee cottages.
Things to do
SwimmingWinter sportsCross-country skiingBoatingSnowmobilingHuntingHorseback ridingFishingHikingPicnickingCampingCanoeing and kayaking
Trails
| Trail | Length | Difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Trail | 0.8 mi | Easiest | Recreations permitted: hiking, biking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: modern restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, benches Providing campers access to the beach and day use areas, this trail runs along the southern border of Lake Jean from the eastern boat launch to the Big loop in the campground. In the winter months, it is a popular snowmobiling and cross-country skiing route.HikingBikingSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Bear Walk Trail | 1 mi | Easiest | Recreations permitted: hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: modern restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, benches This is a meandering trail great for hiking and cross country skiing. It connects the Lake Rose trail head with Beach Lot #2. This trail allows snowmobilers access from the east to west sides of the park and additional trails.HikingSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Cherry Run Trail | 4.6 mi | More difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking, equestrian, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: none Just beyond the old Lake Leigh dam, this trail takes you through groves of cherry trees and remnants of old logging railroads. Access is from Beach Lot #2.HikingEquestrianSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Evergreen Trail | 1 mi | Easiest | Recreations permitted: hiking Trailhead amenities: non-flush restrooms, benches This trail starts at the Evergreen Parking area and descends to Adams Falls, the park's 22nd named waterfall. Continuing down the path, a self-guided nature tour with kid friendly signs can be found.Hiking |
| Falls Trail System | 7.2 mi | Most difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking Trailhead amenities: modern restrooms, picnic tables, benches The Falls Trail System is located in the Glens Natural Area, a national natural landmark containing a series of 21 wild free-flowing waterfalls cascading through rock strewn cliffs. Old growth timber and diverse wildlife can be viewed. Waterfalls range in height from 11 feet to the 94-foot-tall Ganoga Falls, The terrain is rocky, can be slippery, and descends steeply. Hikers should take extra precautions with trail conditions, wear proper footwear, stay on the trail, and be in good physical condition. THiking |
| Highland Trail | 1.2 mi | More difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking Trailhead amenities: benches The highland trail crosses through the Midway Crevasse which is formed by Pocono sandstone conglomerates. that were deposited by Continental glaciers hundreds of feet thick, and is an excellent area for geological study. This trail connects the two glens forming a loop.Hiking |
| Laurel View Trail | 1.9 mi | Easiest | Recreations permitted: hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: none This loop follows the Fire Tower access road from the shale pit parking area to the top of Red Rock Mountain, the highest elevation in the park. From the Fire Tower, this rocky trail continues through mountain laurel and berry bushes, gradually looping back to the starting point. The Fire Tower is closed to the public.HikingSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Little Cherry Run Trail | 1 mi | More difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking Trailhead amenities: none This short trail passes along Cherry Run which flows through unique rock formations. It connects Mountain Springs Trail to Cherry Run Trail to form a loop.Hiking |
| Mountain Springs Trail | 4 mi | More difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking, equestrian, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: none This trail ventures past the old Lake Leigh Dam and down the south branch of Bowmans Creek to the former Mountain Springs Lake. Access to this trail is from Beach Lot #2.HikingEquestrianSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Old Beaver Dam Road Trail | 4 mi | More difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing recommended, snowshoeing recommended Trailhead amenities: none This rolling trail runs through forest and stream habitats, making it a great loop for hikers and cross country skiers. The trail can be accessed from a small parking area on 487 across from gate at the trail entrance.HikingSnowmobilingCross-country skiing recommendedSnowshoeing recommended |
| Old Bulldozer Road Trail | 2.9 mi | Most difficult | Recreations permitted: hiking, equestrian, snowmobiling Trailhead amenities: non-flush restrooms, picnic tables Once used by a bulldozer to get to the top of the mountain, this steep trail is accessed from the Glens Parking Lot is used by hikers and snowmobilers to access the Mountain Springs Trail. The Valley View Vista is accessible at the top of the ridge where signage marks a path maintained by scouts.HikingEquestrianSnowmobiling |
Trail descriptions from the park
26 miles of trails
The 26 miles of trails are a prime attraction of the park. Trails vary from fairly level to very steep hills.
CAUTION: Hikers on the Falls Trail should be in good physical condition, wear sturdy boots, and use caution due to slippery/wet conditions and steep trail sections.
Ricketts Glen State Park Map
Ricketts Glen State Park Falls Trail System Guide
Swimming
The 600-foot beach is open from late-May to mid-September, from 8:00 A.M. until sunset.
A food and refreshment concession, boat rental, and picnic facilities are nearby.
Swim at your own risk.
Please follow posted rules and regulations.
Swimming is permitted inside of the designated area only.
Smoke-Free Beach
Smoking is prohibited on the beach and in the swimming area. For visitors who smoke and still want to use the beach, designated areas adjacent to the beach are provided. The restriction includes:
- Cigarettes
- Pipes
- Cigars
- E-cigarettes
- Other handheld, lighted smoking devices
Amenities
Facilities
- Picnic areas
- Picnic shelters
- Group facilities
Water
- Swimming beach
- Boat ramp
- Marina or boat slips
- Boat, canoe or kayak rentals
- Fishing pier
Camping
- Tent camping
- RV camping
- Group camping
Lodging
- Cabins
- Yurts
Recreation
- Horse trails
✓ listed by the park · ✕ the park says it is not available. Anything not shown here isn’t mentioned by the official source — that means unknown, not unavailable.
Accessibility
Ricketts Glen State Park offers a range of accessibility accommodations to ensure all visitors can enjoy its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Small Loop - Site 84
Site 84 in the Small Loop offers a full hook-up with 50-amp service and a paved pull-through driveway. The driveway is 88 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 65 feet in length, and domestic pets are allowed.
Small Loop - Site 96
Site 96 in the Small Loop offers a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 30 feet in length, and domestic pets are allowed.
Small Loop - Site 98
Site 98 in the Small Loop features a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 15 feet in length, and domestic pets are allowed.
Read more from the park
Small Loop - Site 99
Site 99 in the Small Loop offers a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 20 feet in length, and domestic pets are allowed.
Big Loop - Site 13
Site 13 in the Big Loop features a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 15 feet in length.
Big Loop - Site 15
Site 15 in the Big Loop offers a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 30 feet in length.
Big Loop - Site 16
Site 16 in the Big Loop features a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 30 feet in length.
Big Loop - Site 17
Site 17 in the Big Loop offers a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 40 feet in length.
Big Loop - Site 18
Site 18 in the Big Loop features a modern, non-electric setup with a gravel back-in driveway. The driveway is 20 feet long, accommodating vehicles up to 20 feet in length.
Deluxe Cottage - Erie
Deluxe Cottage - Erie can accommodate up to 5 guests. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Deluxe Cottage - Huron
Deluxe Cottage Huron can accommodate up to 5 guests. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Deluxe Cottage - Mohawk
Deluxe Cottage Mohawk can accommodate up to 5 guests. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Deluxe Cottage - Seneca
Deluxe Cottage Seneca can accommodate up to 5 guests. Domestic pets are allowed. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Deluxe Cottage - Shawnee
Deluxe Cottage Shawnee can accommodate up to 5 guests. Domestic pets are allowed. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Modern Cabin F
Modern Cabin F can accommodate up to 6 guests. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Modern Cabin H
Modern Cabin H can accommodate up to 6 guests. Domestic pets are allowed. Guests are reminded to bring their own bed linens, towels, dishes, pots and pans.
Pavilion 1
Pavilion 1 can accommodate up to 48 people with 8 picnic tables.
Pavilion 2
Pavilion 2 can accommodate up to 48 people with 8 picnic tables.
Fishing Access
An accessible fishing pier is located just off the Western boat launch.
Official accessibility information
Conditions change. Contact the park to confirm specific accessible features before your visit.
Getting there
- Address
- 695 State Route 487
Benton, PA 17814 - Nearest town
- Nanticoke — about 18 mi northwest (straight line)
- Coordinates
- 41.3352, -76.3015
- Phone
- (570) 477-5675
- rickettsglensp@pa.gov
Google Maps directionsApple MapsOfficial park map (PDF)
Directions from the park
The park is 30 miles north of Bloomsburg on PA 487. The section of PA 487 from the town of Red Rock to the Lake Jean area of the park is a very steep road. Heavy trailer units should avoid this hill and enter the park by taking PA 487 south from Dushore. GPS DD: Lat. 41.33517, Long. -76.30153
Nearby state parks
Sources and freshness
- Pennsylvania State Parks — park page — last checked Oct 29, 2026; page says updated Sep 3, 2026
- DCNR Find a Park: content-fragment JSON feed used by the pa.gov park finder
- Wikidata
- USGS PAD-US 4.1 (boundary and acreage)
“Last checked” is when our system last read the official source. “Last changed” (Oct 29, 2026) is when the information shown here last differed from the previous check. Hours, fees and rules can change without notice — confirm with the park before you go. Methodology