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Ricketts Glen
Overview
Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, PA, serves as a premier destination for those seeking a deep connection with the outdoors. Spanning more than 13,000 acres across three counties, this park is best known for the Glens Natural Area, which is a designated National Natural Landmark. While the RV camping experience here is more traditional and rustic than a modern resort, it offers an incomparable opportunity to stay within walking distance of some of the most beautiful terrain in the Northeast. It is a place where nature takes center stage.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled within the Endless Mountains region, the park is located off PA-487, just north of the town of Benton. The surrounding geography is defined by the steep descent of the Allegheny Front, creating the dramatic drops responsible for the park's many waterfalls. RVers will enjoy the lush, old-growth forest surroundings, which provide excellent shade and a sense of privacy. The high elevation keeps the air crisp and refreshing, making it a popular retreat for travelers looking to escape the humidity of the summer months.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground at Ricketts Glen offers several loops suitable for RVs, providing a classic camping atmosphere without the noise of urban life. The park features the following amenities for visitors:
- Many sites equipped with 50-amp electric hookups.
- A centrally located sanitary dump station for convenience.
- Modern bathhouses featuring warm showers and flush toilets.
Each individual campsite is furnished with a heavy-duty picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for traditional campfire evenings under a dense canopy of trees. While there are no water or sewer hookups at the sites, potable water spigots are located throughout the campground for easy tank refills.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The main attraction is undoubtedly the Falls Trail, a challenging loop that showcases 21 stunning waterfalls nestled in ancient green glens. Beyond hiking, Lake Jean provides a 600-foot sandy beach for swimming and a boat launch for non-motorized watercraft. Anglers often find success fishing for bass and panfish in the lake's quiet coves. For a change of pace, the nearby town of Benton offers local culture and the Benton Antique Coalition, which is a favorite stop for those seeking unique treasures.
Who This Park Is Best For
Ricketts Glen is best suited for nature lovers and hikers who prioritize scenery and trail access over high-end resort amenities. It is an excellent choice for RVers with smaller to medium-sized rigs who are comfortable with back-in sites and a more rugged, natural atmosphere. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of the forest and spending your days exploring scenic overlooks and hidden cascades, this state park will be the highlight of your Pennsylvania travels.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Amusement Unknown
A wonderful park. Very beautiful, especially in the fall. Highly recommend coming to just walk the beach trail for a more casual stroll in nature. There is also a day use area with picnic facilities and a beach. Various hiking trails are around to acess the park's many waterfalls. Adams Falls is one of the waterfalls and is one that can be accessed from a small rocky climb/hike. Somw trails close in the winter for safety due to the nature of the hikes so make sure to plan accordingly and come in a good season for hiking if you plan to do the falls trail. The beach trail is generally easier and is just a nice walk around the woods and lake. You won't see any water falls on that trail but it gives year round access to the park and is easier for those not looking for a big hike. The beach is open in the summer to swimming but closes the rest of the year. You can still lake along the beach trail but not enter the water. There was a volleyball net up on the beach the day I went. I don't remember seeing that as a recreation activity on the park site so it was a nice surprise. There is also camping (tent, rv, and cabin) but I didn't stay so I can't speak for the camping but still it's nice to note that it is a great option for those wanting to get away to nature. Boats are allowed on the lake and access is provided.
Sasha S.
This is the best hike I’ve been to! I’ve been here twice already and all of the nature is so beautiful that you just don’t want to leave (P.S. there’s no service here so plan accordingly). This hike is for the moderately experienced, I don’t want to scare anyone away but at some point the rock stairs you have to climb/descend get exhausting and a little scary if you’re afraid of heights. Also make sure your shoes are grippy so you stay grounded. I’d even recommend bringing some hiking sticks, trekking poles, whatever you want to call them, just to get some more stability. I would say it’s pretty safe here people wise, everyone I passed on my hike was very friendly and just going about their own business.
The Princess and The Troll
A beautiful state park and campground. We stayed in the updated loop with full hookups. The sites were spacious and fairly level. The campground offers hiking (the Falls Trail being the most popular), lake activities, and a beach. There currently is a bear visiting the campground but if you take the normal precautions you’ll be fine. If you come from the south, you are faced with a posted 18% grade incline and the opposite if you head south from the park. Logging trucks do use the road so expect some slow traffic when they’re on the hill. The Red Rock Corner store has ice, firewood, a deli, and necessities. Bear Fuel is always near by with gas and diesel. They are both down the hill on Rt 118.
Pinakee Patnaik
Ricketts Glen State Park is truly a natural gem and an unforgettable hiking destination. I recently explored the Falls Trail, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding hiking experiences I’ve ever had. The trail is beautifully maintained, and it immerses you in the heart of the park’s most stunning scenery. What makes this hike so special is the sheer number and variety of waterfalls along the way—22 named falls, each with its own character and charm. From the graceful cascades to the dramatic plunges, every turn of the trail offers a new breathtaking view. The trail itself is moderately challenging, with some rocky and steep sections, but it’s well worth the effort. The combination of rushing water, lush greenery, and cool forest air creates a serene and refreshing atmosphere. I especially appreciated how close the trail allows you to get to many of the falls; in several spots, you can stand right at the base and feel the mist on your face. It’s the kind of immersive experience that makes you forget the outside world and simply enjoy the beauty of nature. Along the hike, there are plenty of spots to pause and take in the scenery, making it both a photographer’s dream and a peaceful retreat for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a memorable adventure, the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen delivers. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking natural beauty, tranquility, and a bit of adventure.
Daniel Roberts
Never have I experience an amazing hike with so many waterfalls in one big hike. Talk about the level power it requires to handle this hike but the views, water, the amazing greenery mixed in. Even the drive getting there is worth it. But i recommend this is a summer to enjoy with friends & family.
