Prince Gallitzen State Park
This weekend Country Fox and some friends visited Prince Gallitzen State Park. State Parks are a wonderful place to visit all year long. Prince Gallitzen is located outside of Patton.
Creation of Prince Gallitzen State Park
During the 1930’s a discussion of the creation of a park began. As it was the Great Depression nothing much came of this early discussion. However, the idea had been planted.
Talk of building a park revived in 1955. As a result, the Patton Chamber of Commerce proposed building a dam in the Killbuck area and forming a park. A meeting with the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Forests and Waters (the forerunner to the PA Department of Conservation and National Resources) resulted in the approval of these plans.
On April 4, 1957, Governor George M. Leader announced the plans for construction of the park and dam. After that, the formation of the park was funded by money gained from oil and natural gas leases.
An important element to the parks plans was the formation of the Glendale Dam and Lake. May 3, 1958 saw ground breaking of the construction. The Lake began to be filled on December 2, 1960. The Park was finally ready for its dedication on May 29, 1965.
Things to do at the Park
Hiking
Prince Gallitzen has 32.65 miles of trails. Trails vary in length and use. Some trails are just for hiking. Meanwhile, some trails are open for biking, horse back riding and snowmobiling. Sturdy shoes are always recommended for hiking. Depending on how long you plan to be out, you may want water and a snack. Please carry out what you carry in and do not litter.
Water Activities
Glendale Lake is a little over 1,600 acres in size with 26 miles of shore line. The lake is open to fishing, swimming and boating. There are 9 boat launches, two marinas, a boat rental, repair shop and a fuel sales. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.
Camping
The 398-site tent and trailer campground is available from April to the end of October. Many sites have an electric hook up. Several sites have full-hookup including sewer, water and electric. There are showers and flush toilets available for campers as well as a coin operated laundry. There are also ten modern cabins some camping cottages available to rent.
Picnicking and Wildlife Watch
There are over 1000 picnic tables for use throughout the park. There are five picnic pavilions available for use. You may rent the pavilions up to 11 months in advance, otherwise they are free on a first come first serve basis.
State Parks are great locations to find all sorts of diverse flora and fauna. There are several wetlands, so visitors are likely to see herons, ducks and rails. Many other species of birds can be found here too. In addition, deer, groundhogs and other wildlife may also be spotted. Please do not feed the wildlife. They may become dependent on humans and therefore bring themselves in to situations that may become dangerous for all.
Other Activities at Prince Gallitzen State Park
Various other activates can be performed at the park including: bicycling, mountain biking, horse back riding, hunting, orienteering, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling. To find out more about any of the activities, park rules and regulations visit their DCNR page here.
In Conclusion
Prince Gallitzen State Park has miles of trails to hike and a lake for water activities. I recommend visiting when you have an opportunity. Interested in volunteering or becoming a Friend of Prince Gallitzin State Park? Visit their site here.
Looking for more places to walk or hike in Cambria County? Visit my list of 5 Trails.