Late spring in Pennsylvania signals the time for anglers and hikers to head for Poe Paddy State Park. Green Drake mayflies hatch in June and bring in avid fly-fishermen from all parts of the country. Here at Penns Creek and Big Poe Creek the huge mayflies keep resident trout feeding for weeks.
   During mid October colorful autumn foliage signals the end of summer, and hikers are out enjoying cooler temperatures along the Mid State Trail. Following Penns Creek, the access trail crosses a pedestrian Mid State Trail bridge and climbs toward the Paddy Mountain railroad tunnel. This old railroad spur served Poe Mill, a lumbering camp that worked this section of today's Bald Eagle State Forest in the late 1800s.
   The unusual names, Poe and Paddy, are the names of two prominent mountains in this area. The Civilian Conservation Corps carved out these two parks from the Pennsylvania forest during the mid 1930s. Poe Paddy and Poe Paddy Valley state parks are surrounded by 198,000 acres of state forest land. These parks are accessed by one-lane gravel roads, offering a good impression of being well off the beaten path. Although Poe Paddy State Park is small, when coupled up with the huge Bald Eagle State Forest visitors may enjoy exploring miles of the area's scenic beauty. While staying at the park's campgrounds, many visitors have fun fishing, hiking, hunting, picnicking, and snowmobiling.

     Area Map
     Park Map