State Game Lands 266

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

State Game Lands 266, located in the state of Pennsylvania, is a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This summary provides accurate information verified across multiple independent sources.

Reasons to Visit:
1. Hunting Opportunities: State Game Lands 266 offers excellent hunting grounds, attracting hunters from near and far. The area is home to various game species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, grouse, and black bear.
2. Wildlife Viewing: Visitors can enjoy observing Pennsylvania's diverse wildlife. The game lands are home to a wide range of species, such as bald eagles, hawks, beavers, foxes, and many others.
3. Fishing: The area features several streams and ponds, providing opportunities for fishing. Anglers can catch a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish.

Points of Interest:
1. Appalachian Trail: A portion of the famous Appalachian Trail passes through State Game Lands 266. Hikers can experience a section of this iconic trail, enjoying breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
2. Scenic Overlooks: The game lands offer several scenic overlooks, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. These viewpoints provide stunning vistas of rolling hills, forests, and valleys.
3. Picnic Areas: State Game Lands 266 provides designated picnic areas where visitors can relax, have a meal, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Interesting Facts:
1. Size and Location: State Game Lands 266 spans approximately 6,000 acres and is situated in Adams County, Pennsylvania. It is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
2. Conservation Efforts: The Pennsylvania Game Commission manages State Game Lands 266 and strives to preserve and enhance wildlife habitats within the area. This ensures the sustainability of various species and promotes a healthy ecosystem.
3. Historical Significance: The game lands encompass areas with historical importance. Visitors may encounter remnants of past settlements, old logging operations, or other cultural artifacts, offering glimpses into the region's heritage.

Best Time of Year to Visit:
The ideal time to visit State Game Lands 266 depends on personal interests. For hunters, the hunting seasons, typically occurring in fall and winter, are the prime times. Wildlife enthusiasts and hikers may prefer visiting during spring and summer when the landscape blooms, and wildlife activity is heightened. Fishing can be enjoyed during designated fishing seasons, generally starting in spring.

Overall, State Game Lands 266 in Pennsylvania offers a plethora of outdoor activities and experiences. Whether one is interested in hunting, wildlife observation, hiking, or fishing, this expansive area provides numerous opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

       

Weather Forecast

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.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks