Visit Promised Land

Promised Land State Park is a popular recreational area located in Pike County, Pennsylvania. It is situated in the Pocono Mountains and covers over 3,000 acres of land. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a wide variety of activities, such as camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating.

The history of Promised Land State Park dates back to the early 1900s, when the land was purchased by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for use as a state forest. The area was known as the Promised Land State Forest and was used primarily for logging and farming. In the 1920s, the state government began developing the area as a recreational destination, and in 1933, Promised Land State Park officially opened to the public.

The park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933. The CCC was designed to provide employment opportunities to young, unemployed men during the Great Depression, while also addressing the need for conservation and land management. The CCC workers at Promised Land State Park were responsible for building many of the park’s recreational facilities, such as the campground, picnic areas, trails, and beach.

In the years following its opening, Promised Land State Park has become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the region. The park’s many lakes and streams offer excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species including bass, trout, and pickerel. Boating and swimming are also popular activities, with several beaches and boat launches located throughout the park.

For hikers, the park offers over 50 miles of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging backcountry hikes. One of the park’s most popular trails is the Bruce Lake Trail, which leads hikers through a scenic forest to the shores of Bruce Lake. Along the way, hikers can see a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and a variety of bird species.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Promised Land State Park also has several historical attractions. One of the most notable is the Masker Museum, which is located in the park’s main office. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the park, including displays on the CCC and the early days of the park’s development.

Another popular attraction is the Promised Land State Park Fire Tower, which is located on top of a hill and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The tower was originally used as a lookout for forest fires and is now a popular spot for visitors to take in the stunning views of the park’s lakes and forests.

Overall, Promised Land State Park is a beautiful and historic destination that offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to fish, hike, swim, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains, Promised Land State Park has something for everyone.

There are many things to do near Promised Land State Park for visitors. Here are some popular options:

1. Hiking: Promised Land State Park has over 50 miles of hiking trails for visitors to explore. From easy strolls to more challenging treks, there’s something for everyone. Some popular trails include the Bruce Lake Trail, Little Falls Trail, and the Conservation Island Trail.
2. Boating: Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats to explore the park’s lakes and waterways. Promised Land State Park has two large lakes, Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake, as well as several smaller ponds.
3. Fishing: Promised Land State Park is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The park’s lakes and streams are stocked with a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and panfish. Visitors can fish from shore or rent a boat to explore the deeper waters.
4. Swimming: Promised Land State Park has two beaches for swimming, Promised Land Lake Beach and Lower Lake Beach. Both beaches have lifeguards on duty during the summer months and offer a refreshing way to beat the heat.
5. Picnicking: There are several picnic areas throughout the park, some with grills and tables. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the scenic views of the lakes and forests.
6. Wildlife watching: Promised Land State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys. Visitors can often spot these animals while hiking or exploring the park’s many trails.
7. Winter sports: During the winter months, Promised Land State Park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The park’s lakes freeze over, creating a winter wonderland for visitors to explore.
8. Nearby attractions: There are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore, including the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the Pocono Environmental Education Center, and the town of Hawley.