Department of Conservation and Natural Resources | Department of Conservation and Natural Resources| Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources DCNR conserves and sustains Pennsylvania's natural resources for present and future generations' use and enjoyment. Explore State Parks Explore State Forests Overview As Pennsylvania’s leader and chief advocate for conservation and outdoor recreation, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will inspire citizens to: Value their natural resources Engage in conservation practices Experience the outdoors Learn more about DCNR and its mission Sign Up For Our Newsletter Follow Us on Social Media Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Social Media Links Facebook Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Social Media Links X Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Social Media Links Instagram Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Social Media Links Youtube Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Social Media Links LinkedIn Find State Park and Forest Facebook Accounts Popular Links Make a Reservation Find an Event Explore Pennsylvania Trails Explore Pennsylvania Local Parks Grants Geology Volunteer Featured Activities Find More Things to Do In State Parks and Forests Hiking Hiking is the most popular outdoor activity in Pennsylvania, and it’s no wonder with all of the outstanding opportunities, from s​hort loop hikes on state park trails to long, multi-day options on state forest lands, to family-friendly adventures on one of Pennsylvania’s rail-trails. Hiking Biking If your need for speed is on two wheels, there are lots of options in our Pennsylvania state parks or the vast network of rail trails in Pennsylvania for a spin on flat, family-friendly trails. Biking Kayaking and Canoeing Pennsylvania is a paddler’s paradise because it is blessed with an abundance of lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds all across the commonwealth for kayaking and canoeing. Many of these paddling opportunities exist within our state parks and forests. Kayaking and Canoeing News Find All DCNR News April 17, 2026 Shapiro Administration Welcomes New Class of DCNR Rangers and Park Managers to Protect and Serve Pennsylvania’s Public Lands The 30 new graduates will join state parks across the Commonwealth this summer, strengthening visitor services, public safety, and conservation efforts across Pennsylvania’s 125 state parks. April 16, 2026 DCNR Announces Free Pocket Meadow Kits for Residents Three hundred free Pocket Meadow Kits, each with enough native seed to plant up to 1,000 square feet, will help residents create wildlife habitat, support pollinators, and reduce long-term lawn maintenance. April 13, 2026 ICYMI: Shapiro Administration Kicks Off DCNR America250PA GeoTrail Through 25 of Pennsylvania’s State Parks Interactive geocaching experience celebrates America’s 250th by showcasing historic sites across 25 Pennsylvania state parks. April 10, 2026 Shapiro Administration Kicks Off DCNR America250PA GeoTrail Through 25 of Pennsylvania’s State Parks Check Your Refund Eligibility Eligible for a refund of your permits, licenses, or certification application fees? Check Now About DCNR Councils and Committees Careers at DCNR Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps Volunteer with DCNR DCNR Internships DCNR Research Database