Oil Region National Heritage Area | The Valley that Changed the World

Outdoor Recreation

Biking / Hiking Trails

Grab Life by the Trails — the heart of the Oil Region’s outdoor recreation system. The most complete off-road section of the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail with its towns, amenities and connector trails invites you to spend the day or a week exploring the countryside and culture of the region. The trail is actually a series of connected shorter trails, offering several options for riders, walkers, joggers, runners and skaters over a broad range of skill and endurance levels.

The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail (EPT) is an emerging network of trails that when complete is estimated to be 260-miles from Dobbin’s Landing at the Bayfront in Erie to the Point at Point State Park in Pittsburgh. Currently, 66 percent of the EPT is complete with the Oil Region being home to nearly 53 miles of the trail on the network. The EPT has a formal body, the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance, a non-profit organization, whose mission is to advocate for the development of the continuous trail; to assist our local partners by sharing expertise and resources; to promote the trail for its regional significance; and encourage local and broader connections,” to fulfill the vision of “a system of non-motorized, multi-use trails and local connectors linking Erie to Pittsburgh through the experience of small towns, rural landscapes, historic sites, and cultural areas, tied to the regional trails and beyond.” Although things sometimes seem quiet on the front, much is always happening along the corridor of the EPT to expand and make connections. Learn more about the long distance trail here.

Queen City Trail

This 1.4-mile paved trail extends east then south along Oil Creek from the northern terminus at Titusville’s South Martin Street to the north end of the Oil Creek State Park Trail on Drake Well Road at the Jersey Bridge, adjacent to the Drake Well Museum.

Much of this trail runs along the Ed Myer Complex, a recreational area with ball fields, batting cages, tennis courts, sand volleyball pits, a BMX bike course, a quarter-mile running track and soccer stadium. A 0.2-mile section of the trail across Oil Creek on South Brown Street to Bank Street and Allen Street is share-the-road in a residential area.

Oil Creek State Park Trail

Beginning at the Jersey Bridge Trailhead in Oil Creek Township, adjacent to Drake Well Museum, this 9.7-mile paved trail runs through the beautiful Oil Creek State Park along Oil Creek to Petroleum Centre. Sounds like Oil Country, right? In fact, this section of trail includes the impressive Drake Well Museum and other sites interpreted with trailside informational signage along its length related to the region’s “Oil Boom that began in 1859.”

The trail offers scenic views of the forest, wildlife and remnants of the oil industry. The trail has a slight slope downhill from Jersey Bridge south.

McClintock Trail

The McClintock Trail connects Oil Creek State Park with Oil City at the confluence of Oil Creek and the Allegheny River. Beginning at Rynd Farm at State Route 8 the McClintock Trail is 1.8-mile share-the-road on Waitz Road, a low volume township road that ends at McClintock Well #1, the oldest producing Oil Well in the world. The southern section of McClintock Trail from McClintock Well #1 to Oil City is adjacent to the Western New York and Pennsylvania Railroad, an active class three railroad with occasional slow moving rail traffic.

Samuel Justus Trail

Connecting Oil City to Franklin, the paved Samuel Justus Trail runs along the Allegheny Wild and Scenic River and has much to offer on the 5.8-mile trail. History and scenic views abound. The gate that was used to access the railroad from the historic River Ridge (1913 stone mansion and farm owned by Joseph Sibley, a successful oil man, livestock breeder and politician) stands prominently along the trail one mile north of Franklin. The trail also offers views of pumping jacks and other oil field relics.

Allegheny River Trail

The Allegheny River Trail continues 28 miles along the Allegheny River from Franklin to Emlenton at the southernmost tip of the Oil Region.

This great section of the trail includes two tunnels that require a good light source with the lengths being 2868 feet and 3350 feet respectively. Just a short distance from the Rockland Tunnel’s northern portal, up the small stream known as Shull Run is the site of the Rockland Iron Furnace, which is fairly intact. Approximately 100 feet further upstream is Freedom Falls, a waterfall that is 50 to 60 feet wide and 20 feet tall. After a four-mile gap between Emlenton and Foxburg, the trail continues 3 more miles to Parker Landing. The Allegheny River Trail intersects with the Sandy Creek Trail 5 miles south of Franklin. For more information visit this link.

Sandy Creek Trail

The Sandy Creek Trail Intersects with the Allegheny River Trail at Belmar providing 12 miles of additional biking adventure over seven bridges and through one tunnel in the heart of the Oil Region’s natural beauty. One of the seven bridges is the former railroad Belmar Bridge that crosses the Allegheny River at the intersection of the Sandy Creek and Allegheny River Trails. The 1385 foot long Belmar Bridge provides spectacular views of the Allegheny River. For more information, visit Allegheny Valley Trails Association.

Mountain Bike Trails

If you prefer dirt, roots and rocks to pavement, the Oil Region is home to mountain biking trails. Two Mile Run County Park in Oakland Township, Venango County offers an extensive trail system with a variety of terrains and conditions. Both double and single tracks with bridges, rocks, roots, logs and many other natural obstacles offer challenges for riders of all skill levels. Each year the park hosts a race with a full course that is approximately 8 miles long.

The 3,184-acre Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest, located in the southern portion of Venango County, offers mountain bike riding in varying degrees of difficulty. All trails and forest roads are open to the activity with the exception of Dennison Run Trail which is permanently off limits to bicycles.

Want even more mountain biking? About fifty miles northeast of the northern point of the Oil Region is The Trails at Jakes Rocks, a new stacked loop of 30+ miles of mountain biking trails in the Pennsylvania Wilds. The Allegheny River connects these regions, creating potential for an epic outdoor adventure.

Hiking Trails

Grab Life by the Hiking Trails! Oil Creek State Park, the Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest and Two Mile Run County Park offer multiple, self-contained hiking trails. If you want a longer walk, jump onto the North Country Trail, America’s longest National Scenic Trail.

Oil Creek State Park

Oil Creek State Park offers 52 miles of trails through scenic woods rich in history including the 36 mile Gerard Hiking Trail plus interpretive trails and walking tours. For more information about where to go and what to see on the trails, visit the Park’s website.

Two Mile Run County Park

The County Park’s 28 miles of trails provide an opportunity to enjoy the Oil Region’s great outdoors. For more information about the Park and its amenities, visit Two Mile Run County Park’s website.

Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest

Much of Clear Creek State Forest lies in Jefferson and Forest Counties but the Kennerdell Tract hugs the Allegheny River in the heart of the Oil Region providing miles of hiking trails. Visit the Clear Creek website for more information and maps.

North Country Trail

The North Country Trail is 4,600 miles of year-round recreation opportunity linking New York with North Dakota through seven states. The main trail intersects the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail just south of the Oil Region in Parker. Temporary connectors and spurs use the Sandy Creek and Allegheny River Trails in the Oil Region to join the permanent trail in Clarion to Parker. For more information go here.

Road Biking

Road biking in the Oil Region is ideal. Within very few miles of town centers and lodging locations, riders can be on hundreds of miles of rural roads in good condition with minimal traffic.

Putting a ride together is easy. There are lots of hills and challenging, sharp grades to add flavor to road rides. Though our hills max out at about a mile or mile and a half, tons of tri-athletes condition here because of the diversity of the terrain. And we do have some 50 mph hills.

Each community has options for water, snacks and restrooms easily accessible. The slower pace of life and less densely populated area means the drivers you’ll encounter are pretty easy going and respectful of the 4-foot rule and those choosing to recreate in the region.

Franklin was named an official Bike Friendly City in 2014, the third in the state of PA.

Road riding in the Oil Region is actually a four-season sport. You can ride when there is snow on the ground because even secondary roads are plowed bare. Bonus: there is less anti-skid on secondary roads and what is there is less likely to pile up the way it can on primary roads.

If you like a lot of grit, though, there are plenty of dirt road options for those who want to get out on gravel bikes in the Oil Region, too.

Road riders are encouraged to check out PennDOT’s construction schedule when planning a route to avoid any closures or active work zones. View the list of projects for the Oil Region (PennDOT’s District 1) here or see a map of current projects here.

Where to Ride and Where to Avoid

  • New Route 8 (south of the Venango Regional Airport, where it becomes four lanes) is “limited access” and therefore a roadway to avoid.
  • Route 8 between Franklin and Oil City should also be avoided since there is little shoulder and lots of traffic.
  • Traveling Route 8 north from Kaneville to Cherry Tree (north of Oil City toward Titusville) is discouraged, again because of the heavier traffic and minimal shoulder, but riders can enjoy this route when heading south as their speed will be comparable to those traveling by car.
  • Route 257 around Cooperstown is relatively flat in this valley with lots of beautiful scenery.
  • Route 157 toward Fryburg in Clarion County has long straightaways and gentle climbs.

Group Rides

Oil City hosts a group ride for all abilities on Wednesday evenings, starting at 5 p.m. at the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Franklin has a more competitive race ride also on Wednesday evenings. Another group rides Sunday mornings starting at Two Mile Run County Park. Outside of the Oil Region, but still nearby, a group in Meadville meets Saturday mornings in Diamond Park and a group in Edinboro divides by level to race on a regular basis. These groups, and the community in general, are welcoming to new riders and out-of-towners.

Group rides are a great way to get into the sport of road riding. As a group, you have more visibility, which increases your safety, and provides a network of support.

The League of American Bicyclists provides information online about classes, tips, regulations, etc.

Bike & Brew

During the annual Oil Heritage Festival each July in Oil City, FLEX (Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange) hosts the Bike and Brew. The event includes a guided road ride throughout the county for those with experience riding on public roads. Shuttle service is provided for anyone wishing to do only certain portions of the route. Advance sign up is required. In addition to the road ride, a mountain bike ride is held at Two Mile Run County Park and a Bike Rodeo is held for kids in Justus Park to teach safety and skills, and inspect helmets. Following the bike fun, craft breweries and local food vendors join bands in Justus Park to continue the celebration. Details on the next Bike and Brew can be found here and through FLEX and the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you to Kevin Culbertson for sharing his expertise on this subject. You can follow Kevin and his rides on Strava.com, the social fitness network where cyclists and runners share their routes and track their miles.

Competition Trails

The Oil Region is home to several competitions that will get your heart racing. Those looking to compete more artistically than physically should check out the contests under Art & Culture Trails. For those interested in testing their speed and power, read on.

Drake Well Marathon & ½

The Drake Well Marathon & ½ takes place each August, beginning and ending in the park. The full 26.2 miles is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon, making it one of the last opportunities to get in before the mid-September deadline, especially for anyone who may have had an injury or simply missed the mark earlier in the season. Regardless of Boston, The Drake Well Marathon has a lot to offer participants.

Scenic surroundings both in the quaint Victorian residential segments and the longer stretches through Oil Creek State Park create a unique experience to run in this small town race. The Oil Region is easy in, easy out for both race day and training runs, with plenty of amenities and activities for your support team.

Oil Creek 5 & 13 Stacked Trail Races

Looking for something shorter? How about the Oil Creek 5 & 13 Stacked Trail Races? Choose to run 5 or 13 miles in Oil Creek State Park in this race that benefits Drake Well Museum and Park each May. Want to really challenge yourself? Sign up for both races and run them “stacked”, back to back for a total of 18 miles.

Learn more about both of these great races at drakewell.org.

OC100 Trail Runs

Looking for something more extreme? How about the OC100 Trail Runs? Described as “Unforgiving. Historic. Gnarly.” it’s all of that and more. Choose from 50K, 100K, or 100 mile races through Oil Creek State Park in October. Registrations open March 1 and sell out extremely quickly, but those who get in rave about the experience. For more information, visit OilCreek100.org and this facebook page.

Friends of Oil Creek State Park Summer Biathlon

Those interested in testing their aim as well as their speed and endurance need to know about the Friends of Oil Creek State Park Summer Biathlon and the International Bowhunter Organization’s National Championship.

The OCSP Biathlon takes place each August in Oil Creek State Park, making it the only running and target shooting race in a Pennsylvania state park. The cross country 6k includes two shooting stops, one prone and one standing, using a provided .22 caliber target rifle to shoot 5 shots at a 4.5 inch metal knock down target 33 meters away. Each missed target incurs a 70 meter penalty lap. The event is open to anyone 12 years of age or older who completes the mandatory pre-event safety clinic. More details, visit friendsocp.org.

International Bowhunting Organization’s National Championship

The third leg of the International Bowhunting Organization’s National Championship Triple Crown takes place in the Oil Region’s own Two Mile Run County Park. According to their website, the IBO “was created in 1984 by a dedicated group of bowhunters who shared the desire to ensure that bowhunting and the ideals of wildlife conservation will survive, expand and flourish to be shared, enjoyed and passed on to future generations.”

This four-day event is open to all. Spectators are welcome, and guest passes are available for those who would like to compete in this single national event. No qualifying or pre-registration is necessary.

Competition starts on Friday, continues through Saturday then concludes on Sunday with a requirement that all scorecards are turned in by 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon.

Participants will shoot 40 targets. Ranges consist of lifelike 3D animal targets, positioned at unknown distances along a trail course in the park. Testing distance estimation is a major component of the competition. Known distance practice targets are provided at no cost to check your equipment before competition. An additional practice range is also available to use for a fee.

For more information, visit ibo.net or contact event organizer Tom Prody at 814-758-3174 or tprody@venustel.com.

Check out the Calendars and regional Facebook pages to find out more about family friendly competitions throughout the area.

Water Trails

The Allegheny Wild and Scenic River Water Trail (formerly known as the Middle Allegheny River) flows 107 miles from the Kinzua Dam east of Warren, PA to the Borough of Emlenton in the southern tip of Venango County.

The Oil Region National Heritage Area has public access points in Oil City, Franklin, Emlenton, and several locations in between. This water trail flows very gently and is family friendly with the exception of the rapids in Oil City under the Veteran’s Bridge that inexperienced paddlers should avoid.

Three sections of the 107-mile Allegheny Wild and Scenic River were designated as part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. These three sections total 86.6 miles, with only the 8-mile section between Oil City and Franklin not designated within the boundaries of the National Heritage Area. This exclusive national list of rivers was established to recognize outstanding examples of the nation’s free-flowing rivers and to raise public awareness of how important and fragile America’s river resources are. The Allegheny was given a “recreational” classification under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to reflect the relatively high level of accessibility and development compared to other rivers in the Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

The Allegheny River is also used by jet boat operators and folks with traditional motor boats, and there are some deeper pools that can support water-skiing (such as the 2-mile pool accessed from the Oil City Marina.) All boaters/paddlers should be patient and courteous to fellow Oil Region outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Fishing is abundant with a diverse species of fish found within its banks. It has also recently been noted that River Otters are beginning to be seen in the waters north of the region, and with continued positive stewardship the Oil Region will soon witness their return.

The water level of the River at Franklin can be found here.

Designated by the Commonwealth in 2017, the Oil Creek Water Trail in the southeastern corner of Crawford County and Venango County runs 20-miles from just north of Titusville in Oil Creek Township to the mouth in Oil City where it enters the Allegheny River. Depending on water levels, paddling this water trail is seasonal. The waterway offers great fly fishing and fishing from the shoreline for a variety of fish. The water level can be found here.

Ending in Franklin at the Allegheny River, the French Creek Water Trail is 72 miles long beginning south of the dam in Union City. French Creek is nationally recognized as one of the most important biologically important waterways including 27 species of mussels and 80 species of fish. Approximately the lower 13 miles of the water trail are in Venango County. The French Creek Water Trail is managed by the French Creek Valley Conservancy. Check the water level at Utica, PA here.

Hunting & Fishing Trails

Opportunities to hunt and fish abound in the Oil Region. Venango County is the Gateway to the Allegheny National Forest, which provides more than 500,000 acres of land open to public hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation.

Hunting

There are also five state game lands open for public hunting in Venango County in addition to Oil Creek State Park, the Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest and Two Mile Run County Park.

Big Game in the Oil Region refers to turkeys, white-tailed deer and black bear. There are seasons for archery, muzzleloader, special firearms and regular firearms for antlered and antlerless deer and bear.

Spring gobbler season is highly anticipated as it gives hunters one of the first excuses for the year to hit the woods and try their calls. Hunters must wait until the fall to hunt both bearded and nonbearded turkeys.

Small game is plentiful including grouse, pheasants, rabbits, and squirrels. The Oil Region’s wetlands are perfect locations for waterfowl and fur trapping.

Novice hunters through those with lifelong experience are encouraged to pay attention to the schedules of seasons and specific locations for each type of game, and all are strongly urged to follow all safety regulations.

The Oil Region Alliance recognizes and values the importance of hunting and fishing in our area, both as an economic driver for our communities and for the opportunity for recreation in some of the most beautiful woods and streams, but we want everyone to be safe and respectful of others.

Please keep up to date by visiting the PA Game Commission website, particularly the page on Seasons & Bag Limits.

There you can also learn more about opportunities to expose young people to the traditions and pastime of hunting by learning more about Junior Licenses and Mentored Youth Permits. Special opportunities also exist for Senior Licenses for those 65 years of age and older, as well as Disabled Person Permits that allow the use of a vehicle.

The Oil Region is home to some hunting guide operations including The Knapp Farm in Titusville. Learn more about this B&B on a registered PA Century Farm by calling 814-827-1092 or visiting theknappfarm.com.

Fishing

French Creek, which runs from the western side of Venango County where it meets the Allegheny River in Franklin, is recognized as the most biologically diverse stream of its size in the state of Pennsylvania.

Walleyes, smallmouth bass, northern pike and muskellunge are the primary species of interest to anglers. The PF &BC Access in Utica to Riverfront Park in Franklin is comfortable for a one-day float and fish trip.

Oil Creek, which runs from Titusville south to meet the Allegheny in Oil City, is known for its exceptional fly fishing. Abundant fly hatches draw trout anglers for late spring/early summer fishing. Small mouth bass are a popular species for summer. Then a Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only special regulation area near Drake Well Museum and Park brings those seeking trout back in mid-fall through early spring.

Check out East Branch Sugar Creek, Little Sandy Creek, Lower & Upper Two Mile Run, Pithole Creek, Sandy Creek, and Sugar Creek for stocked trout.

If still water is more your thing, the 144-acre Justus Lake in Two Mile Run County Park has both coldwater and warmwater species. As an Approved Trout Water Open to Year-Round Fishing, Justus Lake is stocked with trout in spring and late fall. The lake is deep and cool enough to support trout through summer, too. Warmwater species include musky, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill and yellow perch.

Justus Lake is limited to electric motors, making it very inviting to paddle craft. Two ramps create easy access to both ends of the lake.

Wildwood Outfitters provides fly fishing guide service for all levels of experience. They even provide the equipment. Check them out at wildwoodoutfitterspa.com or call 724-433-2315.

Fishing with Darl Black provides guided fishing for crappie, bluegill and smallmouth bass on French Creek, the Allegheny River and other small lakes around the region, all equipment included. Reach out at darlblack@windstream.net, blackwolfecommunications.com or 814-425-8011.

Interested in keeping up with angling in the Oil Region? Sign up for regular reports on conditions, tips, and more by e-mailing info@oilregion.org and asking to join the Angling Report mailing list.

Equestrian Trails

Horseback is a great way to take in the scenic beauty of the Oil Region. The Allegheny River Trail, which runs along the Allegheny River from Franklin south to Emlenton, and the Sandy Creek Trail, which follows Sandy Creek a couple miles south of Route 322 and State Game Lands 45 are multi-use bike trails that allow horses alongside the trail.

The Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest, on the west bank opposite the Allegheny River Trail, has several miles of horseback trails, but some are limited to hiking due to trail conditions and to protect the Exceptional Value watershed.

A bridle trail rings the perimeter of the 2,695 acre Two Mile Run County Park with more than 35 miles of multi-use trails including an inner loop closer to the 144 acre lake. There are some overnight camping sites for those with horses and trailers at the park, too.

The Samuel Justus Trail which runs between Oil City and Franklin, permits horseback riding on access roads parallel to the trail.

Winter Trails

The fun doesn’t stop in the Oil Region when the mercury and white stuff start falling. Cross country skiing, sled riding, snow shoeing and ice fishing are just some of the activities available.

Oil Creek State Park has more than 11 miles of trails from old oil lease and lumber roads that are meticulously groomed for the classical ski technique. Green and blue loops are perfect for beginning or intermediate cross country skiers, while the red loop is for those with more experience. A ski pass is required for the complex, which includes a large parking area, composting toilets and a warming hut. Several night ski events are scheduled throughout the season.

Two Mile Run County Park also offers groomed ski trails in addition to ski, boot, pole and snow shoe rentals. It’s also a favorite spot for sledding. Inside the park, ice fishers on Justus Lake catch perch, trout and even a few walleye.

From Black Friday to New Year’s Eve, Holiday at Burgess, a free drive through holiday light display, lights up Burgess Park on the east end of Titusville.

Fountain Park in Franklin hosts Franklin on Ice each February, which brings ice carvers to display their skills and compete.

Camping

The Oil Region is a beautiful place to commune with nature. What better way to do that than by spending a night or more in the great outdoors?

The following highlights public camping options in the Oil Region.

According to Oil Creek State Park’s website, two overnight, hike-in shelter areas (Cow Run and Wolfkiel Run) are along the Gerard Trail in the park. Each area contains:

  • Tent sites
  • Six Adirondack-style shelters with fireplaces
  • Restrooms
  • Seasonal water supply

A fee and reservations are mandatory for use of these areas and overnight usage is limited to one night per shelter site.

Fires are only permitted in camp stoves, fireplaces, or designated locations and must be extinguished when unattended. Standing timber and shrubs must not be defaced. Camping is permitted in shelter areas only.

Other special regulations pertain to these areas. Further information can be obtained by calling the Park Office at 814-676-5915.

Pets are permitted at the shelter areas. Please contact the park office for guidelines for pets.

Organized groups can rent a rustic camping area in Wildcat Hollow or behind the warming hut. Each area has:

  • Nearby parking
  • Picnic tables
  • Fire circle
  • Composting toilets
  • Seasonal water, but no showers

Each camp can accommodate up to 25 people. Call the park office at 814-676-5915 for accommodations for larger groups. Advance reservations are required.

To reserve a group tent campsite, call 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday to Saturday, 7:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. except on the Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day holidays.

According to the Two Mile Run County Park website, the family campground contains 72 secluded campsites. Twelve sites are full hookups. Several are along the edge of Justus Lake. Twenty-eight sites have electrical hookups. Thirty-two are primitive sites with no hookups and seven of those are walk-in tent only sites.

Campground facilities include modern showers, restrooms, and a waste station. Pets are permitted in campsites but must be on a leash at all times.

The park has a campground host at site B-1 who can provide maps and additional information. The park office is located in the Nature Lodge and also has informational materials.

Please call 814-676-6116 in advance to make camping arrangements.

Those wishing to be close to the action at Two Mile Run, but less enthused about roughing it, should consider renting either The Cottage or The Farmhouse, permanent structures that sleep five and ten respectively and come equipped with the following for your convenience:

  • Kitchen
  • Bath
  • Air Conditioning
  • Washer and Dryer
  • Gas Burning Fireplace
  • Bed Linens
  • Towels

More details can be found at the Two Mile Run County Park website.

Camping at designated public areas may require reservations. Primitive camping at sites along the Allegheny River Trail, including the area in Cranberry Township about a mile downstream from the Franklin Trailhead, are first come first serve for overnight only. Fires are permitted only in designated areas such as fire rings and must be extinguished before leaving.

  • Gaslight Campground
    6297 Emlenton-Clintonville Road
    Emlenton, PA 16373
    724-867-6981
    gaslightcamping.com
  • Kamp Kennerdell Campground & RV Park
    527 Seneca Hemlock Road
    Kennerdell, PA 16374
    814-388-9533
    http://KampKennerdell.com
  • Marlow’s Scenic River Campground
    1725 Kennerdell Road
    Kennerdell, PA 16374
    814-209-0019
  • Oil Creek Family Campground
    340 Shreve Road
    Titusville, PA 16354
    814-827-1023
    oilcreekcampground.com
  • Two Mile Run County Park
    471 Beach Road
    Franklin, PA 16323
    814-676-6116
    twomilerun.net
  • Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest
    449 Campground Road
    Harrisville, PA 16038
    724-735-2417
    pittsburghjellystone.com

Below is a listing of private campgrounds in the region.

6297 Emlenton-Clintonville Road
Emlenton, PA 16373
724-867-6981
gaslightcamping.com

527 Seneca Hemlock Road
Kennerdell, PA 16374
814-388-9533
http://KampKennerdell.com

1725 Kennerdell Road
Kennerdell, PA 16374
814-209-0019

340 Shreve Road
Titusville, PA 16354
814-827-1023
oilcreekcampground.com

471 Beach Road
Franklin, PA 16323
814-676-6116
twomilerun.net

449 Campground Road
Harrisville, PA 16038
724-735-2417
pittsburghjellystone.com

Golf Trails

Pebble Beach and Augusta may be two of the most famous golf courses across the nation, but the Oil Region has fantastic opportunities for you to hit the links, including the oldest golf course in continuous use in the United States: Foxburg Golf Course & Country Club.

This nine-hole course opened in 1887. A clubhouse built in 1912 as a private residence was acquired by the Country Club in 1942. Its second floor is home to the American Golf Hall of Fame, where visitors will find a priceless collection of golf clubs and other exhibits depicting the 400 year history of golf.

At the other end of the Oil Region, Cross Creek Resort is home to a 27-hole course built in 1959 with Wynn Tredway as architect. Cross Creek Resort offers stay-and-play packages and also boasts meeting rooms and a restaurant and bar.

Wanango Country Club, which is open to the public, is situated between Oil City and Franklin. Its original 18-holes are credited to Donald Ross and Thomas Bendolow, but the course was later redesigned by A. W. Tillinghast. The course is a 6,246 yard, par 71 challenge. The Wanango Country Club has a Grille Room, which serves meals and the clubhouse is a popular site for weddings and parties.

3815 Rt 8, Titusville
800-461-3173

369 Harvey Road, Foxburg
724-659-3196

136 Warren Road, Franklin
814-432-3900

256 Osenider Road, Franklin
814-676-3712

733 SR 427, Franklin
814-374-4111

3562 SR 417, Franklin
814-676-3890

2270 Route 38, Emlenton
724-867-0067

(Open to the Public)
314 Chestnut St., Reno
814-676-8133

514 Sunville Road, Franklin

GeoTrails

Geocaching is a family-friendly modern day version of hide and seek. It’s an entertaining adventure game for GPS users.

What are “caches”?

The basic idea is to have individuals and organizations set up “caches” (small, hidden trinkets) all over the world, and share the locations of these caches on the Internet.

GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. When a visitor finds a cache, they are asked to take a reward and leave something for the next person who finds that cache.

The Allegheny GeoTrail is not exactly a path to follow, but rather a collection of 10-20 designated geocaches in each of ten counties in Northwestern and North Central Pennsylvania. The ten participating counties are: Cameron, Clarion, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, McKean, Potter, Venango, and Warren.

These comprise the Allegheny National Forest and its surrounding gateway counties. Geocaches are in a variety of terrains, requiring different skill levels to reach.

Find a minimum of six caches in any one county and you qualify for that county’s unique geocoin. Complete all ten counties and you qualify for the larger, bonus geocoin.

Coins from all ten participating counties, as well as the bonus coin, are available at the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry & Tourism office in Oil City, PA.

All caches are listed on geocaching.com. Search for them there by searching on “AGT-” or “AGT-(county name)” (to be county-specific) in the cache title.

Before setting out on the Allegheny GeoTrail (AGT) you should obtain a free, official AGT passport. AGT Passports are available from any of the 10 participating counties.

  • Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry & Tourism
    217 Elm Street
    Oil City, PA 16301
    GPS: N41º26.089’ W079º 42.471’
    814-677-3152
    Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Good Real Estate
12 W 4th St., Emporium, PA 15834
814-486-1494
GPS: N41° 30.694′ W078° 14.304′
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00-5:00, Sat. 8:00-1:00

Northwest Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau
2801 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5197
visitpago.com
GPS: 41°10’36.66” N 79°05’48.78” W
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Clarion Area Chamber of Business and Industry
650 Main St., Clarion, PA 16214
814-226-9161
N 41° 12.886′ W 079° 23.013′

Northwest Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau

2801 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5197
visitpago.com
GPS: 41°10’36.66” N 79°05’48.78” W
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Crawford County Convention and Visitors Bureau
16709 Conneaut Lake Road, Meadville, PA 16335
800-332-2338
visitcrawford.org
N 41° 37.355′ W 080° 12.103′
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00-4:30

Pymatuning State Park
2660 Williamsfield Road, Jamestown, PA 16134
724-932-3142
N41° 29.959’ W80°28.088’
Hours: Sun.-Sat. 8:00-4:00

Quality Inn
511 West Central Avenue
Titusville, PA 16354
814-827-0041
Hours: 24 hrs. Sun.-Sat.

Northwest Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau
2801 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5197
visitpago.com
GPS: 41°10’36.66” N 79°05’48.78” W
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Ridgway Welcome Center
300 Main Street, Ridgway, PA 15853
814-776-1424
GPS: N41° 25.316′ W078° 43.735′
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7:30-3:30, Sat. 10:00-2:00

Forest County Visitors Center
422 Elm Street, Tionesta, PA 16353
814-755-3338

Northwest Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau
2801 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5197
visitpago.com
GPS: 41°10’36.66” N 79°05’48.78” W
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Northwest Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau
2801 Maplevale Road, Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5197
visitpago.com
GPS: 41°10’36.66” N 79°05’48.78” W
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau
80 E. Corydon Street, Bradford, PA 16701
814-368-9370
visitANF.com
GPS: N41° 57.287′ W078° 38.855′

Zippo/Case Museum
1932 Zippo Drive, Bradford, PA 16701
814-368-1932
GPS: N41° 56.600′ W078° 39.034′

PA Lumber Museum
5660 US Rte 6 West, Ulysses, PA 16948
814-435-2652
lumbermuseum.org
GPS: 41°46’47.3″N 77°49’35.9″W

Oil Creek State Park
305 State Park Road, Oil City, PA 16301
814-676-5915
GPS: N41° 30.929′ W079° 40.860′
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00-4:00
Sat. & Sun. 9:00-5:00 (until 10/14)

Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry & Tourism
217 Elm Street
Oil City, PA 16301
GPS: N41º26.089’ W079º 42.471’
814-677-3152
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30

Warren County Visitors Bureau
22045 Route 6, Warren, PA 16365
800-624-7802
wcvb.net
GPS: N41° 50.713′ W079° 13.584′
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:00-4:30

Chapman State Park
4790 Chapman Dam Road, Clarendon, PA 16313
GPS: N41° 45.450′ W079° 10.261′
814-723-0250
Hours: Monday thru Friday 8:00 to 4:00
Additional hours on weekends from April 1 to mid-October: Saturday and Sunday 8:00 to 4:00

Please Note:

All passports marked 2007-2008 are still valid. New passports are not dated.

For more information, go here and here.

Birdwatching Trails

The Oil Region’s mix of woods, farmland and river valleys makes for some great bird watching. Blue Herons and bald eagles are spotted regularly on Oil Creek, without venturing off the beaten path. The region is home to an array of waterfowl, birds of prey, woodpeckers and songbirds.

Bring your bins and identification book, and let birdwatching be the reason you soak up the Oil Region.

Interested in some official guidance? The Bartramian Audubon Society serves Butler, Lawrence, Mercer and Venango counties. The public is invited to attend scheduled field trips as guests of the society. For upcoming events, visit this website. For general information on the club, go here.

The Presque Isle Audubon Society is our neighbor to the north and can help, especially if you’re interested in taking advantage of the feathered friends around Lake Erie. Find out more here.

Even if you’re not into birdwatching, we highly recommend keeping your eyes peeled while you hike, bike, float and even drive through the Oil Region. You’re bound to see some great ornithological sights!

Stargazing Trails

If you’re coming from an urban center, you may be surprised to look up at a night sky full of stars in the Oil Region, but the Oil Region is a great dark-sky location!

It’s no surprise to the members of the Oil Region Astronomical Society, who maintain the Bruce M. Bedow Observatory and multi-purpose building on 25 acres at 4249 Camp Coffman Rd., Cranberry, PA 16319 (estimated coordinates are 41.321903 N and -79.585394 W). The observatory has several top-of-the-line telescopes and the multi-purpose building contains a restroom, shower room and classroom to accommodate student and adult groups for presentations and other activities.

ORAS, founded in 1993, hosts the annual AstroBlast, a gathering of amateur astronomers and anyone interested in astronomy. Lectures and educational sessions combine with on-site camping and dark sky observing to create a star party you won’t want to miss. AstroBlast is open to registered participants only and advance registrations are encouraged, but so are new comers. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment, but will also be allowed to view through the new 30” Starstructure telescope.

For more details on AstroBlast and other activities of the ORAS, please visit their site, which includes a handy chart of moon phases and current constellations visible in our area.

No matter your level of interest in the cosmos, be sure to look up after dark in the Oil Region. You are sure to see some amazing skies!

Off-Highway Vehicle Trails

 

 

The use of ATVs, OHVs, side-by-sides, four wheelers, and the like is on the rise throughout the country, and the Oil Region is no exception. There are already some locations open to OHVs, but the Oil Region Alliance has been working to determine needs and additional routes to support this growing form of outdoor recreation.

The ORA spurred the creation of an ATV organization made up of advocates and will continue to provide technical assistance to the group as they work to advance the creation of ATV trails and connect the communities in the Oil Region through municipal roads and private land trails. The organization will  advocate for legal riding areas, and will assist in establishing riding rules and etiquette standards for trails and routes they have helped to establish. The Alliance will provide some safety signage to townships for ATV road routes, and map the existing municipal roads that are designated for ATVs.

The ORA commissioned a feasibility study on ATV trails. The executive summary is available to download with the link below.

ORNHA OHV Feasibility Study_Executive Summary

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