Who We Are
Michaux State Forest encompasses more than 85,500 acres in the South Mountain area of Adams, Cumberland, and Franklin County.
Considered Pennsylvania’s “cradle of forestry”, Michaux is the site of the first forestry school, Mont Alto. The forest is named for the French botanist, Andre Michaux, who discovered and named many plants during the 18th century.
For more information visit the Michaux State Forest website and Facebook page.
The Michaux State Forest is dominated by dry oak-heath forest types and contains unique ridgetop barren ecosystems, vernal pools, and talus slopes. There are four state forest natural areas that are recognized for their unique features such as the Meeting of the Pines Natural Area which is the only location where all fives species of native pines are found growing together.
Many recreational pursuits can be enjoyed on the Michaux State Forest such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, rock climbing and ATV/snowmobile riding. There are also many historical sites.
There are over 100 miles of trails, including 36 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Visitors will be greeted by many scenic highlights in the Michaux State Forest, including 7 vistas, mountain laurel and rhododendron blooms, and fall foliage. Over 130 miles of gravel roads offer opportunities for appreciation of Michaux’s natural beauty and act as gateways to many other recreational activities.
Camping in the Michaux State Forest is a great way to get away from it all and spend a night in the great outdoors. These designated, roadside campsites are identified by signpost and campsite name. Most are remote, designated sites with no amenities although some may include a fire ring and picnic table. Some sites may require a short walk-in from the road while others can be immediately accessed by vehicle.
For trail maps visit the Michaux State Forest Map webpage.
The Michaux State Forest has several notable amenities that provide for unique and memorable experiences.
The Michaux Target Shooting Range is located on Birch Run Road in Franklin Township, Adams County, and offers a 70 yard rifle range as well as a 25 yard multi-distance pistol range. A valid DCNR range permit is required. Permits are available for purchase at the Michaux State Forest District office during weekdays.
The Old Forge Picnic Area, located 4.5 miles south of the Village of South Mountain features two pavilions, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, playground equipment, and an athletic field.
What We Do
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry manages our state forests for their long-term health and productivity while conserving native wild plants.
These forests are managed as “working forests” and provide a suite of uses and values to Pennsylvania citizens, while maintaining the forest’s wild character.
Our state forests are managed for:
- Pure water
- Recreation
- Scenic beauty
- Plant and animal habitat
- Sustainable timber and natural gas
- Many other uses and values
The management of our state forests is guided by the State Forest Resource Management Plan.
