Things To Do In Hershey Pa Area – The Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide
You think of Hershey, Pennsylvania, and your mind immediately goes to roller coasters and the sweet smell of chocolate, right? Most travel guides will point you toward the theme park and Chocolate World, and while those are great, they often miss the bigger picture. They overlook the rolling hills, the winding river, and the miles of trails waiting just beyond the town limits.
We promise this guide is different. This is your map to the other side of Hershey—the one where you can truly connect with nature. We’re going to show you how to trade the crowds for quiet forests and the long lines for open waterways.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in the Hershey PA area for outdoor lovers. We’ll break down the top hiking and biking trails, guide you through paddling adventures on the Susquehanna River, detail the best campgrounds for every style, and share essential tips for exploring sustainably and safely.
Beyond the Chocolate: Why Hershey is a Secret Outdoor Hub
At first glance, Hershey might seem like an unlikely basecamp for outdoor adventure. But look at a map, and you’ll see it’s perfectly positioned. It sits in the heart of the Lebanon Valley, with the mighty Susquehanna River to the west and the beautiful ridges of the Appalachians just a short drive away.
This unique location offers incredible benefits of things to do in hershey pa area that blend convenience with wildness. You can spend a morning hiking a rugged trail and be back in town for a comfortable evening, making it ideal for families or solo travelers who want a mix of activities.
The real advantage is accessibility. You don’t need to be a seasoned mountaineer to enjoy the nature here. The region offers a fantastic range of options, from paved, family-friendly bike paths to challenging sections of iconic long-distance trails. It’s the perfect place to build your confidence and skills.
Hit the Trails: Top Hiking and Biking Spots Near Hershey
Lacing up your boots or hopping on a bike is one of the best ways to experience the landscape around Hershey. The area is crisscrossed with trails for every skill level. Always pack a daypack with the essentials: water, snacks, a map (don’t rely solely on your phone), a small first-aid kit, and a rain jacket like the Patagonia Torrentshell.
For a Relaxed Walk or Ride: Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail
If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to the area’s nature, this is it. The Eshenour Trail is a paved, multi-use path that winds through Derry Township. It’s mostly flat and well-maintained, making it perfect for families with strollers, casual cyclists, or anyone wanting a peaceful walk without rugged terrain.
This is a great option for a morning warm-up or an evening cool-down. The trail connects several parks and community areas, offering a safe and scenic way to stretch your legs after a day of driving.
For the Forest Bather: Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
Just a 20-minute drive north of Hershey, this preserve feels a world away. It protects over 1,000 acres of woodland, including some of the largest trees in the state. The trails here are true hiking trails—unpaved, with roots and rocks underfoot.
The Pond Loop Trail is a moderate favorite, offering beautiful forest scenery. For a better workout, tackle the steeper Oak Ridge Trail. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support, like the Merrell Moab 3, to handle the uneven ground. Remember to practice eco-friendly things to do in hershey pa area by staying on marked trails to protect the fragile undergrowth.
For a Taste of the Iconic: The Appalachian Trail
Did you know one of the most famous hiking trails in the world passes just north of the Hershey area? You can easily access sections of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) for a challenging day hike. A popular access point is near the Susquehanna River at Duncannon, about a 30-minute drive.
Hiking even a small piece of the A.T. is a powerful experience. Be prepared: this is a rugged, rocky trail. Check the weather, tell someone your plan, and carry a reliable navigation tool like the FarOut app alongside a physical map. This is where your outdoor skills truly come into play.
Paddling Adventures on the Susquehanna River
The Susquehanna River is a massive, slow-moving waterway that offers fantastic opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Seeing the landscape from the water provides a completely different perspective.
Getting on the Water: Access and Rentals
You don’t need your own boat to enjoy the river. Outfitters like Susquehanna Outfitters in Harrisburg rent kayaks and canoes and can provide shuttle services, making a one-way downstream trip easy. They’ll give you all the gear and safety instructions you need.
A popular and scenic float is from Fort Hunter Park down to City Island in Harrisburg. This route is relatively calm and offers great views of the city skyline and the surrounding hills.
Water Safety Best Practices
Safety is non-negotiable on the water. Even if the river looks calm, conditions can change. This is one of the most important things to do in hershey pa area best practices to follow.
- Always wear a PFD. A Personal Flotation Device (life jacket) is your most important piece of gear. Make sure it fits snugly.
- Check the conditions. Look up the river’s flow rate and weather forecast before you go. High water can create dangerous currents.
- File a float plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
- Stay hydrated. The sun reflecting off the water can dehydrate you quickly. Bring more water than you think you’ll need in a bottle like a Nalgene or Hydro Flask.
Your Complete Things to Do in Hershey PA Area Camping Guide
Whether you’re in an RV, a campervan, or a simple tent, there’s a campsite near Hershey for you. Booking in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays, is highly recommended as this is one of the most popular activities.
For Convenience and Amenities: Hershey Highmeadow Campground
This is the official campground of Hersheypark and offers the most amenities. You’ll find full hookups for RVs, cabins for rent, swimming pools, and a shuttle service to the park. It’s a great option for families who want a comfortable and convenient base.
The downside? It can be crowded and less of a “nature” experience. Think of it as a resort with campsites. It’s perfect if you want to balance park days with a bit of outdoor living.
For a Classic State Park Experience: Gifford Pinchot State Park
About a 30-minute drive south, Gifford Pinchot State Park offers a more traditional camping experience. The campground is set in a beautiful forest near the 340-acre Pinchot Lake, which is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
The park has sites for tents and RVs, as well as modern cabins and yurts. This is a great place to follow a things to do in hershey pa area care guide for your campsite: store all food securely in your vehicle to avoid attracting raccoons or other wildlife, and always douse your campfire completely before turning in.
For the Self-Sufficient Adventurer: Michaux State Forest
If you’re looking to get away from it all, head to Michaux State Forest. This vast forest offers designated, primitive roadside campsites for free (permit required). This is dispersed camping—there are no bathrooms, no running water, and no camp store.
This style of camping requires complete self-sufficiency. You must pack in everything you need and, more importantly, pack out every single piece of trash. It’s a rewarding experience that offers true solitude, but it’s best for campers who are comfortable and equipped for primitive conditions.
Sustainable Exploration: Enjoying Hershey Responsibly
Being a good steward of the outdoors is a core part of the OutwardLab ethos. Practicing sustainable things to do in hershey pa area ensures these beautiful places remain healthy for generations to come. It’s not just about picking up trash; it’s about making conscious choices.
The Leave No Trace Principles
These seven principles are the gold standard for outdoor ethics. They include planning ahead and preparing, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. Internalize these rules before you head out.
Support Local, Reduce Impact
Instead of hitting a national chain for supplies, stop by a local farm stand for fresh produce. Fill up your reusable water bottles instead of buying single-use plastic ones. Small choices add up to a big positive impact on the local community and the environment.
Avoiding Common Problems on Your Hershey Adventure
A little bit of planning can help you sidestep the most common problems with things to do in hershey pa area. Here are a few tips from the field to make your trip smoother.
Navigating Crowds and Peak Season
Hershey is a major tourist destination, especially from June to August. To avoid the biggest crowds on the trails and at campgrounds, try to visit mid-week. If you must travel on a weekend, start your hikes early in the morning to get a peaceful hour or two before everyone else arrives.
Preparing for Pennsylvania’s Weather
Pennsylvania weather can be unpredictable. Summers are hot and humid with a risk of strong afternoon thunderstorms. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures but can change quickly. Always pack layers—a fleece, a waterproof shell, and a moisture-wicking base layer—so you can adapt to changing conditions.
Wildlife Encounters and Tick Safety
You will likely see deer, and you might see a black bear from a distance in more remote areas like Michaux State Forest. Respect them by keeping your distance and never, ever feeding them. Store food and scented items securely.
A more pressing concern is ticks. Pennsylvania has a high incidence of Lyme disease. After every hike, perform a thorough tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets. Wearing light-colored clothing and using an EPA-approved insect repellent can also help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Hershey PA Area
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in Hershey?
Fall is arguably the best. The temperatures are cool and comfortable for hiking, the humidity drops, the bugs are gone, and the fall foliage is spectacular. Summer is great for water activities, while spring offers beautiful wildflowers.
Are there any free outdoor things to do near Hershey?
Absolutely! Hiking in state forests like Michaux or preserves like Boyd Big Tree is completely free. Many local and municipal parks also offer free access to trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Do I need a special permit for kayaking on the Susquehanna River?
For your own unpowered boat (kayak, canoe), you need to have a launch permit issued by the PA Fish & Boat Commission or a PA State Parks and Forests registration. If you rent from an outfitter, their boats will already be permitted.
Is the Hershey area safe for a solo outdoor adventurer?
Yes, the area is generally very safe for solo travelers. Stick to well-trafficked trails in state parks during the day, let someone know your itinerary, and carry a fully charged phone and a backup power bank. Campgrounds at state parks are also excellent, secure options for solo campers.
Hershey is so much more than its world-famous attractions. It’s a place where you can hear the crunch of leaves under your boots, feel the cool water of the Susquehanna on your paddle, and see a sky full of stars from your campsite. By stepping just a little off the beaten path, you can craft an adventure that is both thrilling and restorative.
So pack your gear, plan your route, and get ready to explore. The wild, wonderful side of Hershey is waiting for you. Stay safe, travel responsibly, and have an incredible adventure!
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