Ricketts Glen State Park: Camping, Waterfalls & Kayaking in Pennsylvania’s Most Stunning State Park
By Carissa | Always Sunny in PA
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There are trips that are fun. There are trips that are beautiful. And then there are trips that remind you why you fell in love with the outdoors in the first place.
Our two-night camping trip to Ricketts Glen State Park in the fall of 2025 was firmly in that third category.
About two hours from Palmyra, PA, Ricketts Glen is one of Pennsylvania’s crown jewels — a stunning state park known for its legendary waterfall trails, pristine Lake Jean, and some of the most peaceful camping you’ll find anywhere in the state. Jason and I had visited before, but we’d never camped there. Last fall we finally fixed that — and it completely exceeded every expectation.
Why Ricketts Glen Should Be on Every PA Outdoor Lover’s Bucket List
Ricketts Glen State Park is home to 22 named waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, a beautiful lake perfect for kayaking and swimming, and a campground that puts you right in the heart of it all. It’s the kind of park that makes you understand why people call Pennsylvania “God’s country.”
And at just 2 hours from Lebanon County? There’s truly no excuse not to go.
Our Camping Setup: Tent Life Done Right
We went full tent camping for this trip — Jason pulled out his trusty tent from his younger days, and honestly? It held up perfectly. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about sleeping in a tent that’s been on adventures before.
For sleeping we found the most perfect solution: a two-person sleeping bag that zips open at the feet. I cannot stand having my feet covered when I sleep — anyone else?! — so this was an absolute game changer. We also brought our air mattress which made two nights on the ground feel surprisingly luxurious.
The campground itself was peaceful and well-equipped. The bathhouse was just a short walk from our tent site — clean, convenient, and everything you actually need without any fuss.
Pro tip: Don’t overpack. We learned quickly that simple is better when camping. The less you bring, the more you can actually relax and be present.
Local tip: Stop at Red Rock Corner Store on your way into the park for firewood and camping snacks — it’s the perfect one-stop shop before you set up camp! Stock up on everything you need so you can settle in and relax the moment you arrive.
The Stargazing Moment That Made the Whole Trip
I want to talk about the nights for a moment — because they were honestly one of the highlights of the entire trip.
Sitting by our campfire underneath a sky absolutely packed with stars, with no cell service, no notifications, no noise except the crackling fire and the sounds of the forest — it was the kind of stillness that you forget exists in everyday life.
Ricketts Glen has limited cell service, and I cannot tell you how wonderful that is. We were completely unplugged for two days, and I came home feeling more rested than I had in months. If you’re someone who needs to truly disconnect — this is your place.
The Falls Trail: One of Pennsylvania’s Greatest Hikes
Let’s talk about what Ricketts Glen is most famous for: the waterfalls.
The Falls Trail system at Ricketts Glen winds through the park passing 22 named waterfalls — and it is absolutely breathtaking. We took our time, packed lunch, and spent a solid four hours exploring. This is not a trail to rush. Every turn brings a new cascade, a new angle, a new moment that makes you stop and stare.
Our personal favorites were Ganoga Falls and Oneida Falls — both stunning examples of why this trail is considered one of the best hikes in all of Pennsylvania.
A few things to know before you hit the trail:
The hike is moderate in difficulty — not brutally hard, but not a casual stroll either. The terrain can be rocky and wet near the waterfalls, and there are some steeper sections that will get your heart rate up. Good hiking boots are absolutely essential here — don’t attempt this trail in sneakers.
Pack a lunch and give yourself plenty of time. The best way to experience the Falls Trail is slowly — sit by a waterfall, eat your lunch, take it all in. This is not a trail to rush through just to say you did it.
Kayaking Lake Jean: Peaceful, Scenic & Slightly Windy 😄
One of the things that makes Ricketts Glen extra special is Lake Jean — a beautiful lake right within the park that’s perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.
We brought our own kayaks and spent a morning out on the water. It was a little windy — which added some character to the paddling — but otherwise completely serene. Birds skimming the surface, fish visible in the clear water below, trees surrounding the lake on every side. It’s the kind of paddle that makes you feel completely at peace.
If you don’t have your own kayak, rentals are available at the park — no reason to miss out on the lake experience!
Why Fall Is the BEST Time to Visit Ricketts Glen
We visited in fall and I’ll never visit any other time of year. Here’s why:
The air is crisp and cool — perfect hiking weather. The leaves are just beginning to turn, painting the forest in golds and oranges that make the waterfalls look even more dramatic against the colorful backdrop. The campground is peaceful without the summer crowds. And sitting by a campfire on a cool fall evening under a sky full of stars is one of life’s genuine pleasures.
If you’re planning your first trip to Ricketts Glen — go in fall. You won’t regret it.
Tips Before You Go
- 📓 Love documenting your outdoor adventures? Grab our Always Sunny in PA Pennsylvania Trail Journal — perfect for recording waterfall names, trail notes and camping memories! 🌲
- 🥾 Wear proper hiking boots — the Falls Trail is rocky and wet. I wear my Columbia Hiking Boots on every hike and they were perfect here.
- 🎒 Pack a daypack with lunch — you’ll want to spend at least 4 hours on the Falls Trail. My Osprey Daylite carries everything I need.
- 💧 Bring plenty of water — my Hydro Flask keeps water cold all day on the trail.
- 🏕️ Don’t overpack for camping — simple is better. Focus on the essentials and leave the rest at home.
- 🛒 Stop at Red Rock Corner Store for firewood and snacks before heading to your campsite — super convenient and saves you from having to make a trip once you’re settled in!
- 📵 Embrace the no cell service — seriously, lean into it. It’s one of the best parts!
- 🌟 Stay at least 2 nights — one night isn’t enough. You need two days to do the Falls Trail AND the kayaking justice.
- 🍂 Visit in fall — the combination of crisp air, changing leaves and campfire evenings is absolutely magical.
- 🚗 Book your campsite early — Ricketts Glen is popular, especially in fall. Reserve well in advance.
- 🛶 Bring your kayak if you have one — or rent at the park for the full Lake Jean experience.
- 🌲 Take your time — unplug, unwind, and be present. This park rewards the unhurried visitor.
Park Info:
- 📍 Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania (Luzerne, Sullivan & Columbia Counties)
- 📞 Park Office: 570-477-5675
- 🌐 Reservations: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday–Saturday, 7am–5pm
- ⏰ Park open year-round, sunrise to sunset
Final Thoughts
Ricketts Glen State Park is everything a Pennsylvania state park should be — stunning natural beauty, world-class hiking, peaceful camping, and the kind of quiet that restores your soul.
If you live in Central Pennsylvania and haven’t camped at Ricketts Glen yet, let this be the year you finally do it. Pack light, bring your hiking boots, leave your phone in the tent, and spend two nights under the stars.
You’ll come home a different person — in the best possible way.
Have you visited Ricketts Glen State Park? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear about your favorite waterfall on the Falls Trail! 🌊🍂
