Did you know that Little Buffalo State Park’s centerpiece, Holman Lake, was created by damming a creek that once powered a 19th-century grist mill, with the mill’s historic stone foundation still visible beneath the water’s surface? This 923-acre natural haven in Perry County offers visitors a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and historical exploration, attracting nature lovers year-round with its scenic beauty and diverse activities.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Little Buffalo State Park is located in Newport, Perry County, approximately 48 km (30 miles) northwest of Harrisburg. The park is easily accessible by car via US-22/322 West to Route 34 North if coming from Harrisburg, or US-322 East to Route 34 South if traveling from State College.
The closest major airports to the park are:
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) – approximately 56 km (35 miles) away
- University Park Airport (SCE) – approximately 113 km (70 miles) away
Having your own vehicle is highly recommended as public transportation options to the park are limited. The park’s address is 1579 State Park Road, Newport, PA 17074.
Ready to Visit Little Buffalo State Park?
Start planning your trip with these essential travel services:
Best Time to Visit Little Buffalo State Park
Best Months to Visit
- Late April to early October is ideal for most activities
- June-August offers warmest temperatures for swimming
- September-October provides stunning fall foliage
- Spring (April-May) features beautiful wildflowers
Months to Avoid
- November-March (limited activities, facilities closed)
- Mid-July weekends (potential overcrowding)
- Holiday weekends (if seeking solitude)
Summer temperatures typically range from 21-29°C (70-85°F), perfect for swimming and water activities. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures between 10-21°C (50-70°F), ideal for hiking and exploring. Winter temperatures can drop to -7 to 4°C (20-40°F), limiting some activities but offering opportunities for ice fishing when conditions permit.
For the best experience, pack layers regardless of season, as mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer. Rain gear is recommended during spring and summer months when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Getting Around Locally
The best way to explore Little Buffalo State Park is by personal vehicle. The park spans nearly 4 km² (1 square mile), with various attractions spread throughout. Clearly marked roads lead to different areas including Holman Lake, the swimming pool, picnic areas, and historical sites.
Within the park, a network of hiking trails connects different areas, making it possible to reach many attractions on foot once you’ve parked. The park offers approximately 8 miles of trails varying in difficulty from easy to challenging.
For exploring Holman Lake itself, kayak and canoe rentals are available during summer months. Electric motors (maximum 20 horsepower) are permitted on the lake, but gasoline motors are prohibited.
Where to Stay
Little Buffalo State Park offers several accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:
Camping
The park’s campground features 43 sites (31 with electric hookups) and 5 pet-friendly camping cottages. Open from April through October, the campground includes modern restrooms with showers, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Reservations are available up to 11 months in advance.
Nearby Hotels
The nearby towns of Newport and Duncannon (both within 16 km/10 miles) offer several hotel and motel options. Harrisburg, about 48 km (30 miles) away, provides a wider range of accommodations including chain hotels and boutique options.
Vacation Rentals
Several vacation cabins and homes are available for rent in the surrounding area, offering privacy and often scenic views. These are ideal for families or groups wanting more space and the ability to prepare their own meals.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Little Buffalo State Park
Book your accommodation early, especially during summer and fall foliage season:
Dining & Local Cuisine
While there are no restaurants within Little Buffalo State Park itself, visitors have several dining options:
Picnicking
The park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy meals lakeside. Several pavilions are available for larger groups and can be reserved in advance. The shaded oak and maple groves provide a perfect setting for family gatherings.
Nearby Dining
The town of Newport (about 8 km/5 miles away) offers several dining options including:
- Buffalo Brew Coffee Shop – Perfect for morning coffee and breakfast
- The Ranch House Restaurant – Known for hearty American fare
- Red Rabbit Drive-In – A local institution serving burgers and ice cream since 1964
- Espresso Yourself Café – Offering sandwiches and specialty coffee drinks
Local Specialties
When dining in the area, look for Pennsylvania Dutch influences in local cuisine, including chicken pot pie (actually a thick stew with noodles), scrapple, and shoofly pie for dessert. Fresh produce from local farms is abundant during summer and fall.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Historical Sites
Little Buffalo State Park is home to several historical attractions that provide insight into the area’s past:
- Shoaff’s Mill – A fully restored grist mill from the 1840s that offers demonstrations of the milling process on summer weekends
- Blue Ball Tavern Museum – Operated by the Perry County Historical Society, this museum sits on the foundation of an early 1800s tavern and displays period furnishings and local history exhibits
- Clay’s Covered Bridge – Built in 1890, this picturesque red wooden bridge now serves as a pedestrian crossing within the park
Water Activities
Holman Lake, the 36-hectare (88-acre) centerpiece of the park, offers numerous water-based activities:
- Swimming – The park features a large swimming pool with water slides and a splash pad (open late May to early September)
- Fishing – The lake is stocked with trout and also contains bass, catfish, and panfish
- Boating – Electric motors only; rentals available for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats during summer
- Ice Fishing – Popular during winter when conditions permit
Enhance Your Little Buffalo State Park Experience
Discover guided tours and activities to make the most of your visit:
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Museums & Cultural Sites
- Perry County Historical Society Museum (Newport) – Exhibits on local history and genealogy
- Roger Flickinger Visitor Center – Located within the park, it features displays of native wildlife and a scale model of Shoaff’s Mill
- Blue Ball Tavern Museum – Houses artifacts and exhibits that share the story of the tavern’s place in community life
Annual Events & Festivals
- Perry County Fair (August) – Agricultural exhibits, food, and entertainment
- Apple Festival (October) – Celebration of the fall harvest with apple products, crafts, and music
- Heritage Days (September) – Historical demonstrations at Shoaff’s Mill and Blue Ball Tavern
- Summer Concert Series (June-August) – Weekend performances at the park amphitheater
Check the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website for current event schedules and any special programs during your visit.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Hiking & Biking
Little Buffalo State Park offers 8 miles of trails varying in difficulty:
- Middle Ridge Trail (2.5 miles) – Moderate difficulty with scenic forest views
- Exercise Trail (1.5 miles) – Features fitness stations along a relatively flat path
- Little Buffalo Creek Trail (1 mile) – Easy path following the creek
- Buffalo Ridge Trail (1.2 miles) – More challenging with elevation changes
- Mill Race Trail (0.5 miles) – Connects historical sites including Shoaff’s Mill
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, beavers, and numerous bird species. Dawn and dusk offer the best viewing opportunities. The lake attracts great blue herons, kingfishers, and various waterfowl. Bring binoculars for the best experience.
Seasonal Activities
- Spring – Wildflower viewing, bird watching during migration
- Summer – Swimming, boating, fishing, hiking
- Fall – Leaf peeping with spectacular foliage typically peaking in mid-October
- Winter – Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and sledding when conditions permit
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Tips
- Always check weather forecasts before water activities
- Wear life jackets when boating (required for children under 12)
- Stay on marked trails when hiking
- Carry water and wear appropriate footwear on trails
- Be aware of hunting seasons in adjacent state game lands
- Check ice thickness (minimum 10 cm/4 inches) before ice fishing
Park Etiquette
- Pack out all trash (follow Leave No Trace principles)
- Keep pets leashed and clean up after them
- Observe quiet hours in the campground (9 PM to 8 AM)
- Respect historical structures and artifacts
- Use designated fire rings only for campfires
The park is alcohol-free, and swimming is permitted only in designated areas during lifeguarded hours. Fishing requires a valid Pennsylvania fishing license for anyone 16 and older.
Visitor Comments About Little Buffalo State Park
“We discovered Little Buffalo State Park last summer and were amazed by how much this small park offers. The hiking trails are well-maintained, and the historical mill was fascinating. Our kids loved the swimming pool with water slides. It’s become our favorite weekend getaway spot when visiting family in Pennsylvania.”
“As an avid fisherman, I’ve found Holman Lake to be one of the better spots in central PA. The lake is well-stocked, and I’ve had great luck with bass in the early mornings. The electric-motors-only rule keeps it peaceful. The campground is small but clean with decent facilities. Perfect for a quick nature escape.”
“We visited during fall foliage season and were stunned by the beautiful colors reflecting in the lake. The covered bridge and historical buildings add so much character to this park. We spent hours hiking the trails and photographing the scenery. The Blue Ball Tavern Museum was a highlight – the volunteer guide was incredibly knowledgeable about local history.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking shoes for trails
- Swimwear (summer months)
- Insect repellent (especially May-September)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera for scenic shots
- Fishing gear if planning to fish
Good to Know
- Cell service can be spotty within the park
- The nearest gas stations and grocery stores are in Newport
- Park entrance is free; fees apply for swimming pool and camping
- Reservations recommended for camping, especially weekends
- Pavilions can be reserved for group gatherings
The park office is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM and can provide maps, fishing licenses, and information about current conditions and activities. The Roger Flickinger Visitor Center offers educational displays and is typically open weekends during summer and fall.
Plan Your Little Buffalo State Park Adventure
Ready to experience all that Little Buffalo State Park has to offer? Start planning your trip today:
Your Pennsylvania Nature Escape Awaits
Little Buffalo State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical exploration that makes it a standout destination in central Pennsylvania. From peaceful mornings fishing on Holman Lake to afternoons exploring centuries-old buildings or hiking through vibrant fall foliage, this hidden gem provides experiences that appeal to all ages and interests throughout the seasons.
Whether you’re seeking a day trip from Harrisburg, a weekend camping getaway, or a place to connect with Pennsylvania’s natural and cultural heritage, Little Buffalo State Park delivers an authentic outdoor experience that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left. Pack your hiking boots, camera, and sense of adventure – the trails, historic sites, and pristine waters of this Perry County treasure await your discovery.
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