Did you know that despite its ominous name, Worlds End State Park was once called “Whirls End” due to the swirling pattern of the Loyalsock Creek as it bends through the canyon? This 780-acre natural oasis in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, earned its nickname from early settlers who believed the dramatic canyon views marked the edge of civilization. Today, this hidden gem offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the state, with over 20 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and crystal-clear waterways that attract nature enthusiasts year-round.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Worlds End State Park is nestled in the heart of Sullivan County in north-central Pennsylvania. The park is relatively remote, which contributes to its pristine natural setting and “worlds end” feeling.

The closest major airports to Worlds End State Park are:

• Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT) – approximately 56 km (35 miles) away
• Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) – approximately 97 km (60 miles) away
• Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) – approximately 177 km (110 miles) away

From these airports, you’ll need to rent a car to reach the park. The most direct route to Worlds End State Park is via PA Route 154, which runs directly through the park. The park office and main facilities are located at 82 Cabin Bridge Road, Forksville, PA 18616.

When planning your journey, be aware that GPS service can be spotty in this rural area, and there is limited cell phone coverage within the park itself. It’s advisable to download offline maps or bring printed directions before your trip.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Worlds End State Park offers unique experiences throughout the year, but certain seasons showcase its beauty more dramatically than others.

Recommended Seasons to Visit:

• Late Spring (May-June): Ideal for waterfall viewing as snowmelt increases water flow. Temperatures range from 10-24°C (50-75°F).
• Summer (June-August): Perfect for swimming in Loyalsock Creek and the swimming hole. Temperatures typically range from 18-29°C (65-85°F).
• Fall (September-October): The absolute best time to visit for spectacular fall foliage. The park’s hardwood forests transform into a stunning tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. Temperatures range from 7-21°C (45-70°F).

Seasons to Avoid:

• Winter (December-March): While beautiful for experienced winter hikers, many facilities close and roads may be difficult to navigate. Temperatures often drop below freezing, ranging from -12 to 4°C (10-40°F).
• Early Spring (March-April): Often muddy with unpredictable weather and potential flooding.

The park’s swimming area is only open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so plan accordingly if swimming is on your agenda. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during the peak summer and fall foliage seasons.

Getting Around Locally

Worlds End State Park’s remote location means that having your own vehicle is essential for exploring the park and surrounding areas. Once inside the park, most attractions are accessible via short drives along park roads.

If you’re staying in one of the park’s cabins, many amenities like the playground, swimming hole, and visitor center are within walking distance. Bringing bicycles is an excellent option for families, as the cabin area has paved roads suitable for casual riding.

For those interested in exploring beyond the immediate park boundaries into Loyalsock State Forest, a vehicle with decent ground clearance is recommended, as some forest roads are unpaved and can be rough in spots.

The park’s trail system is well-marked with colored blazes, making hiking navigation straightforward. Trail maps are available at the park office and should be carried when venturing onto longer trails.

Where to Stay

Worlds End State Park offers several accommodation options for visitors wanting to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings:

Rustic Cabins

The park features 19 rustic cabins available for rent year-round. These stone-faced cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, offer a charming, historic lodging experience:

• Each cabin includes a kitchen with stove, refrigerator, and basic cooking equipment
• Bedrooms feature double bunk beds (bring your own linens)
• Indoor/outdoor fireplaces and outdoor fire rings
• Cabins 9 and 19 are pet-friendly
• Located within walking distance to Loyalsock Creek, the playground, and visitor center
• Shared shower houses with hot water and flush toilets nearby

Cabins require a minimum stay of one week during summer months (Saturday to Saturday) and can be reserved up to 11 months in advance.

Camping

The park’s campground offers tent and RV sites:

• 70 campsites, some with electric hookups
• Modern restrooms with hot showers
• Several pet-friendly sites available
• Open from April through October

Nearby Accommodations

For those seeking more amenities, nearby towns offer additional lodging options:

• Hotel Dushore (15 minutes from park)
• Eagles Mere Inn in the charming village of Eagles Mere (20 minutes)
• Twin Spruce Tourist Home in Dushore (15 minutes)
• Various vacation rentals in surrounding communities

Dining & Local Cuisine

While Worlds End State Park itself has limited dining options, there are several noteworthy places to eat in the surrounding area:

Within the Park:

• Beach Concession Stand: Open during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day), offering snacks, ice cream, and cold beverages.

Nearby Dining:

• Forksville General Store: Located adjacent to the Forksville Covered Bridge, this local favorite is known for authentic Philly cheesesteaks that rival those found in Philadelphia. They also offer hoagies, sandwiches, and basic groceries.
• Worlds End Coffee Co.: In the nearby town of Eagles Mere, this coffee shop offers quality coffee, pastries, and light breakfast items.
• Eagles Mere Inn Restaurant: Upscale dining in a historic setting, serving American cuisine with local ingredients.
• Forksville Inn and Tavern: A rustic tavern offering pub fare and drinks, with outdoor seating available.
• Becky’s Ice Cream: Located near High Knob Overlook, offering ice cream treats and mini-golf for families.

For visitors staying in cabins or camping, bringing groceries is recommended as shopping options are limited in the immediate area. The closest grocery stores are in Dushore or Laporte, both about a 15-minute drive from the park.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Worlds End State Park offers a wealth of natural attractions and activities for outdoor enthusiasts:

Scenic Vistas

• Loyalsock Canyon Vista: The park’s most famous overlook, accessible by car or via the Canyon Vista Trail, offering spectacular views of the Loyalsock Valley.
• Worlds End Vista: A short but steep hike from the park office rewards you with views overlooking the swimming area and Loyalsock Creek.
• High Knob Overlook: Located in nearby Loyalsock State Forest, this roadside vista provides one of the most expansive views in the region, especially stunning at sunset.

Natural Features

• Rock Garden: Located across from Loyalsock Canyon Vista, this fascinating collection of massive boulders dates back 300 million years. Visitors can walk through, around, and even under some of the formations.
• Loyalsock Creek: The main waterway flowing through the park, perfect for swimming, fishing, and rock-hopping during summer months.
• Swimming Hole: A designated swimming area along Loyalsock Creek, complete with a beach area, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Historic Sites

• Forksville Covered Bridge: Built in 1850, this 152-foot covered bridge spans Loyalsock Creek and is one of three surviving covered bridges in Sullivan County.
• CCC Structures: Many park facilities, including cabins and pavilions, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.
• Park Chapel: A unique non-denominational outdoor chapel where services are held during summer months.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Worlds End State Park is primarily known for its natural attractions, there are several cultural and historical points of interest in the surrounding area:

Museums and Cultural Sites

• Sullivan County Historical Society Museum: Located in Laporte, this museum showcases the region’s rich history with exhibits on logging, farming, and early settlement.
• Eagles Mere Museum: A small free museum in Eagles Mere displaying the history of this historic resort town, including its famous ice toboggan slide and glass-making heritage.
• World’s End State Park Visitors Center: Features exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and the history of the CCC’s work in developing the park.

Events and Festivals

• Worlds End Ultramarathon: Held annually, this challenging 63.8-mile race takes runners through the park and surrounding Loyalsock State Forest.
• Sullivan County Fair: Typically held in late August/early September in Forksville, featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and local food.
• Eagles Mere Summer Events: The town hosts various cultural events throughout summer, including concerts, art shows, and educational programs.
• Ranger Programs: During summer months, park rangers conduct educational programs on wildlife, geology, and conservation at the park amphitheater.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Worlds End State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous trails and natural features to explore:

Hiking Trails

• Loyalsock Trail: A 59-mile trail that passes through the park, connecting many of the area’s most scenic spots. Perfect for day hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures.
• Double Run Nature Trail: A 2.4 km (1.5 mile) family-friendly loop featuring Cottonwood Falls, one of the park’s most photogenic waterfalls.
• Canyon Vista Trail: A 6.3 km (3.9 mile) loop that climbs to Loyalsock Canyon Vista, offering spectacular views along the way.
• Cold Run Trail: A newer 2.4 km (1.5 mile) trail featuring two small waterfalls, a vista, and a natural rock tunnel.
• Butternut Trail: A moderate 3.9 km (2.4 mile) loop with views of the Loyalsock Valley.

Waterfalls

The park and surrounding Loyalsock State Forest are home to numerous waterfalls:

• Cottonwood Falls: Located along the Double Run Nature Trail, this waterfall flows through a narrow slit in the rock wall.
• Dry Run Falls: A roadside waterfall in Loyalsock State Forest, easily accessible and particularly beautiful after rainfall.
• Mineral Springs Falls: A small waterfall located just outside the park boundary along the Loyalsock Trail.
• Angel Falls and Gibson Falls: Two impressive waterfalls located along a side trail off the Loyalsock Trail.
• Ketchum Run Falls: Part of a series of waterfalls in Ketchum Run Gorge in the nearby state forest.

Water Activities

• Swimming: The park’s swimming hole on Loyalsock Creek is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Fishing: Loyalsock Creek is stocked with trout and also contains native brook trout, making it popular with anglers.
• Kayaking/Canoeing: When water levels permit, Loyalsock Creek offers opportunities for paddling, though most sections within the park are too shallow during summer.

Winter Activities

• Cross-country Skiing: Many park trails are suitable for cross-country skiing when snow conditions permit.
• Snowshoeing: An excellent way to explore the park’s winter landscape.
• Ice Fishing: Available at nearby Sones Pond when conditions allow.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Worlds End State Park requires awareness of several important considerations:

Safety Tips

• Limited Cell Service: There is minimal to no cell phone coverage within the park. Plan accordingly and inform someone of your itinerary if hiking remote trails.
• Wildlife Awareness: The park is home to black bears, rattlesnakes, and other wildlife. Store food securely, make noise while hiking, and know how to respond to wildlife encounters.
• Water Safety: Loyalsock Creek can have strong currents after heavy rain. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas during summer months when lifeguards may be present.
• Trail Preparation: Carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and bring a map when hiking. Many trails have steep sections and rough terrain.
• Weather Awareness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts and be prepared for sudden temperature changes or storms.

Park Etiquette

• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave natural features undisturbed.
• Quiet Hours: Observe quiet hours in camping and cabin areas from 9 PM to 8 AM.
• Pet Policies: Pets must be leashed and are only permitted in designated areas. Clean up after your pet.
• Campfire Regulations: Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Check for any burn bans during dry periods.
• Trail Etiquette: Stay on marked trails, yield to uphill hikers, and keep noise levels reasonable to preserve the natural experience for all visitors.

Park Map & Location

Visitor Comments About Worlds End State Park

Additional Nearby Destinations

While Worlds End State Park offers plenty to explore, several nearby attractions are worth including in your itinerary:

• Ricketts Glen State Park: Located about 48 km (30 miles) from Worlds End, this park features the spectacular Falls Trail with 21 named waterfalls. Often combined with Worlds End for an extended trip.
• Eagles Mere: A charming historic resort town just 16 km (10 miles) from the park, featuring a pristine lake, unique shops, and restaurants.
• Loyalsock State Forest: Surrounding the park, this 114,552-acre forest offers additional hiking, including the beautiful Haystacks area along Loyalsock Creek.
• Sullivan County Covered Bridges: Besides Forksville, visit the historic Sonestown and Hillsgrove covered bridges to complete the county’s covered bridge tour.
• World’s End Ultramarathon Route: Even if you’re not running the race, portions of this challenging 63.8-mile route showcase some of the most scenic areas in the region.

Practical Travel Tips

Essential Items to Pack

• Water Shoes: Essential for exploring Loyalsock Creek and its rocky bottom.
• Hiking Boots: Many trails have rocky, uneven terrain requiring proper footwear.
• Insect Repellent: Particularly important during summer months.
• Printed Maps: Don’t rely on digital maps due to limited cell service.
• Cabin/Camping Supplies: If staying overnight, bring linens, cookware, and food supplies as shopping options are limited.

Planning Advice

• Reservations: Book cabins and campsites well in advance, especially for summer and fall weekends.
• Fuel Up: Gas stations are limited in the area; fill your tank before heading to the park.
• Cash: Some local businesses may not accept credit cards; bring cash just in case.
• Grocery Shopping: Stock up on supplies in larger towns before arriving, as options near the park are limited.
• Park Programs: Check the visitor center upon arrival for scheduled ranger programs and activities.

Nature’s Sanctuary Awaits Your Discovery

Worlds End State Park truly lives up to its evocative name, offering visitors a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature’s timeless rhythms. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along moss-covered trails, gazing at endless mountain vistas, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear waters of Loyalsock Creek, this Pennsylvania gem rewards those who make the journey. The park’s dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thoughtfully preserved natural features create an outdoor experience that stays with visitors long after they’ve returned to civilization. As the seasons transform the park from the vibrant greens of summer to the fiery palette of autumn and the hushed whites of winter, Worlds End remains a sanctuary where the beauty of Pennsylvania’s wilderness can be experienced in its most authentic form. Pack your hiking boots, bring your sense of adventure, and discover why generations of nature lovers have found their paradise at the place where the world seems to end.