Who We Are
Sproul State Forest was named in memory of William C. Sproul, Governor of Pennsylvania from 1919 to 1923. Governor Sproul was best known for expansion of the public education system in Pennsylvania.
Sproul State Forest is located in north central Pennsylvania, primarily in western Clinton and northern Centre counties.
The largest in the state forest system, Sproul covers 305,450 acres, or slightly more than 476 square miles. It features steep and rugged hillsides cut by the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and its tributaries.
Sproul State Forest is one of eight state forests located in the Pennsylvania Wilds region.
For more information visit the Sproul State Forest webpage.
Part of the Allegheny Plateau in Northcentral PA, the Sproul State forest and its expansive ridges are dominated by a mixed-oak forest type. It lies primarily within the Susquehanna watershed and the many clear, cool streams provide excellent habitat for native brook trout and its contiguous blocks of forestland are considered an Important Bird Area and provide valuable habitat for other wildlife.
There are many unique ecological and geological natural features and ecosystems in the Sproul State Forest, with several State Forest Natural Areas that protect important wetland resources.
Sproul State Forest’s 476 square miles is truly the place to experience the wild. Many opportunities exist to explore the area such as the foot-traffic only 50-mile Chuck Keiper and 90-mile Donut Hole Trails that wind through some of the most remote locations. There are numerous scenic vistas, most accessible by vehicle along the 300+ miles of public use roads which are also popular for viewing wildlife and brilliant fall foliage.
There are many other trails throughout the forest, and most are open to horseback riding and mountain biking. The 21-mile Eagleton Mine Camp Trail is managed primarily for mountain biking, and in the winter the Hiding Bear Trail is a popular cross country skiing destination.
Other forms of recreation include canoeing from state forest accesses and for those with an interest in motorized recreation there are two ATV trail systems available. Snowmobiling opportunities abound in the winter months.
The large expansive forests are home to a variety of wildlife and offer rewarding opportunities for hunting and fishing.
Camping in the Sproul 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. They are remote, designated sites with no amenities.
The Sproul State Forest is managed for dispersed and low-density recreation and facilities are minimal throughout. The Jesse Hall State Forest Picnic Area is located along PA-144 about two miles south of South Renovo. The facilities there include picnic tables, fireplaces, pavilions, and latrines. No drinking water is available at Jesse Hall Picnic Area.
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.
