Cook Forest State Park

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is the state agency entrusted with stewarding Pennsylvania’s public lands, natural resources, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Our dedicated team of conservation professionals, park and forest staff, scientists, and support personnel work to ensure that Pennsylvania’s natural heritage is protected, accessible, and sustainable for all.

The 8,500-acre Cook Forest State Park and 3,136-acre Clarion River Lands lie in scenic northwestern Pennsylvania. Known for its stands of of old growth forest, the park's Forrest Cathedral of towering white pines and hemlocks is a National Natural Landmark. A scenic 13-mile stretch of the Clarion River flows through Cook Forest State Park and is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) protects and enhances the state’s natural, recreational, and cultural resources for current and future generations. We manage state parks and forests, support community recreation and conservation initiatives, provide science-based expertise on Pennsylvania’s ecological health, and promote outdoor experiences that enrich the lives of all residents and visitors.

Cook Forest State Park offers a wide variety of programs year-round. Programs cover varied topics like old growth forest ecology, river ecology, history, and guided tours. The Log Cabin Environmental Learning Classroom offers indoor space for programs. Displays feature historic logging and rafting tools, models, and artifacts. Curriculum-based environmental education programs are available to schools and organized groups. A variety of professional development workshops are also offered for teachers.