Who We Are
Moshannon State Forest derives its name from "Moss-hanne", or "moose stream", the Native-American description of the waterway that runs through the area. The forest totals 190,031 acres on the Allegheny Plateau.
Small tracts of the forest are found in Cameron and Clinton counties; however, most of the forest land lies in Clearfield, Elk, and Centre Counties. Moshannon is one of eight state forests located in the PA Wilds.
For more information visit the Moshannon State Forest website or Facebook page.
Moshannon State Forest lies within the transition zone between the northern hardwood and Allegheny hardwood forests to the north and the mixed oaks and oak-hickory forests to the south. Part of the Pennsylvania Elk Management Area falls within the Moshannon Forest District where a wild elk herd can be found. There are numerous unique natural ecological and geological features throughout the state forest such as Panther Rocks, Wolf Rocks, and the Marion Brooks Natural Area which contains an almost pure White Birch Stand.
Being in the PA Wilds, the Moshannon State Forest offers over 244 miles of some of PA’s most remote wilderness trails, including the hiking-only Quehanna and Allegheny Front Trails. Most other roads and trails are also open to mountain biking and horseback riding. The 200+ miles of well-maintained, gravel public use roads serve as a gateway to the forest and allow for sightseeing, especially popular when brilliant fall foliage is present. The expansive forests with its diverse habitats are well known for their rewarding hunting and fishing opportunities. In the winter, there are 56 miles of cross country ski trails and over 200 miles of snowmobile trails. For more information visit the Moshannon State Forest website or Facebook page.
Camping in the Moshannon 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. There are no amenities, although some may have a fire ring and picnic table.
Moshannon State Forest is primarily managed for low density and dispersed recreation, so facilities are limited throughout. There are developed wildlife viewing areas at Hoover Farm and Beaver Run.
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.
