Cherry Springs State Park - Galeton, PA - A Park with Stargazing and Nature Programs

Cherry Springs State Park is located in Galeton, Pennsylvania, and consists of 48 acres of land. The Susquehannock State Forest surrounds the park. Cherry Springs Airport is adjacent to the park's campground. The park got its name because of the large stands of black cherry trees found in the park. Wild and remote, Cherry Springs State Park is a haven for astronomers because of its dark skies.

If weather permits, a guest speaker or park educator conducts stargazing programs for the public. These programs take place on the airport side of the park and are free of charge. The stargazing programs are typically offered throughout the summer. Some of the stargazing programs that are offered are part of the Stars-n-Parks program, which is a partnership between the park and the National Public Observatory. The Cherry Springs Dark Sky Fund/Association is a friends group of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation. The group's goal is to protect the park's night sky and enhance the park's astronomy experiences through educational outreach programs and improved facilities.

In addition, nature programs are offered at Cherry Springs State Park. Nature programs are offered year round and focus on environmental education and interpretive programs. These programs use hands-on activities, campfire activities, and guided walks to help visitors become more aware of natural and historical resources. These programs are intended to help visitors gain an appreciation of these resources.

Rustic campsites are available at the park. There are a total of 30 campsites available. There is also a sanitary dump station on the grounds. All campsites include a fire ring, a lantern hanger, and a picnic table. The campground typically opens for the season on the second Friday in April and closes in December. Reservations for campsites are not accepted.

Visitors have access to picnicking facilities. The park is home to a historic log pavilion that was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This unusual pavilion is a landmark in the area and includes two covered dining areas that also have fireplaces. The dining areas connect to one another through a covered breezeway. The breezeway contains picnic tables as well. The pavilion is surrounded by spruce trees and white pine. An old apple orchard is located by the pavilion and offers visitors access to additional picnic tables. Charcoal grills are also available.

A 15-mile mountain bike trail runs from the state forest's Denton Hill district office and extends into Patterson State Park before continuing to Cherry Springs State Parks. Maps of the trail can be obtained at the offices for Lyman Run State Park and the Bureau of Forestry. The Susquehanna Trail passes near the park and provides visitors with access to roughly 85 miles of hiking and backpacking.

Since 1952, Cherry Springs State Park has hosted the Woodmen's Show. Every August, thousands of spectators attend the event. The Woodmen's Show features lumberjack contests in log rolling, tree-felling, standard block chopping, spring board chopping, and chainsaw events.

Anyone interested in obtaining additional information about Cherry Springs State Park can call 814-435-5010.