Trough Creek State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Trough Creek State Park, located in the state of Pennsylvania, is a picturesque destination that offers visitors a variety of attractions and stunning natural features.
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Summary
Situated in Huntingdon County, the park encompasses an area of approximately 554 acres and is known for its rugged cliffs, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
There are several compelling reasons to visit Trough Creek State Park. Firstly, nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse wildlife and plant species. It is home to various animals, including deer, black bears, bobcats, and a variety of bird species. The park offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife photography.
One of the main highlights of the park is the Balanced Rock, a massive boulder precariously balanced on the edge of a cliff. The unique geological formation is a sight to behold and a popular spot for visitors to take photos. Another point of interest is Rainbow Falls, a majestic waterfall that cascades down a series of rocks into a pool below. The park also features a suspension bridge, known as the Swinging Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the sparkling waters of Great Trough Creek.
Trough Creek State Park has some interesting historical features as well. Visitors can explore the remnants of the historic Pine Grove Iron Works, an iron furnace that operated in the mid-19th century. Additionally, the park offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and a small beach where visitors can relax and swim during the summer months.
The best time to visit Trough Creek State Park is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the foliage displays vibrant colors. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, and fall offers stunning autumnal scenery. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers its unique charm.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify this information across multiple independent sources, such as the official website of Trough Creek State Park, travel guides, and reputable travel websites.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
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
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trough Creek State Park
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Seven Points
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Susquehannock - Raystown Lake
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State Game Lands 073
State Game Lands 067
State Game Lands 071
State Game Lands 099
State Game Lands 147