State Game Lands 042

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

State Game Lands 042, located in Pennsylvania, offers a variety of reasons to visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.


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Summary

Covering an area of around 2,977 acres, this game land provides ample opportunities for recreational activities such as hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

One of the main reasons to visit State Game Lands 042 is its diverse wildlife population. The area is home to a wide range of species, including deer, turkey, squirrels, waterfowl, and various songbirds. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the abundance of avian species, making it a prime destination for birding enthusiasts.

There are several points of interest within State Game Lands 042. The Raccoon Creek, which runs through the game land, offers a picturesque setting for fishing or enjoying a peaceful picnic by the water. The rolling hills and forested areas provide scenic views and ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Interesting facts about State Game Lands 042 include its establishment in the early 20th century as a designated area for conservation and wildlife management. The game land is managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, which aims to protect and sustain the state's wildlife and habitat. Additionally, the game land is part of a larger network of state game lands, contributing to the preservation of Pennsylvania's natural resources.

The best time of year to visit State Game Lands 042 depends on the activities one wishes to engage in. For hunters, the fall season is ideal for pursuing game species such as deer and turkey. Spring and summer are excellent for birdwatching and observing other wildlife, as the migratory birds return and young animals can often be spotted. Hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm.

To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided by consulting multiple independent sources, such as the official website of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, local tourism websites, and reputable travel guides.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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