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Caledonia State Park offers opportunities to hunt, fish, camp, hike and more, all with a taste of history mixed in.
Bob Frye/Everybody Adventures
Ever been to Caledonia State Park?
Near the old iron furnace at Caledonia is a wonderful little waterfall.
Bob Frye/Everybody Adventures
It’s located right off Route 30 in Fayetteville, Franklin County, midway between Chambersburg and Gettysburg. At a little more than 1,200 acres it’s big enough. And there’s plenty to do.
You can hunt there and fish. The section of East Branch Conococheague Creek that runs right through the main picnic area gets stocked with trout and is restricted to children only. It’s a great place to take kids in spring given the picnic tables, grills, bathrooms and more.
There are several hiking trails, too. The Appalachian Trail is one. There’s a historic Thaddeus Stevens Trail, too.
You remember Thaddeus?
An ardent abolitionist in Civil War days, he was hated enough in the south that when the Confederate Army invaded Pennsylvania, they made an example of him.
The Rebels were under orders not to harm civilians or their property. When they came upon Thaddeus’ iron works, though, they burnt it to the ground.
History buffs might also want to check out the Forest Discovery Museum. It tells the history of forest fire fighting in Pennsylvania.
Camping is available, too. Now, some campsites close down after Labor Day, when the crowds fall off. And the facilities are, if functional, in need of some upgrades. There’s a lot here that’s old and looks it.
But it’s a nice place to spend the night and then explore.
So you think you might want to visit? Find details about the park here.