If you're heading to the Nw Lancaster Co. River Trail, |
Mile 0-1 The NW Lancaster Co. River Trail starts at the Columbia River Park. The Columbia Crossing Trail Center is a beautiful trail head and a must stop for trail information! The river park also features views of the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Keep your eyes out for the colorful mural as you set off on the trail! | Mile 1-3 At Chickies Rock Co. Park there is so much to discover, learn and explore. Once you get through Point Rock Tunnel you can head off the trail and hike to Breezy view overlook for a breathtaking view! Keep your eyes out for the old canals and furnaces, you can spot them right from the trail. Marvel at the rock formations and Chickies rock itself, you can't miss it! | Mile 8-9 Once belonging to the Pennsylvania railroad's low grade line, the tracks that run across Shocks Mill RR Bridge now belong to the Norfolk Southern Railway. The 2,209 foot bridged opened in 1905 and is still in use today, if you're lucky you might spot a train. Take a moment to marvel at those brick arches as the trail leads you under it. | Mile 9-10 The White Cliffs of Conoy sure are an odd sight! Along the Susquehanna River an excess of limestone and dolomite were piled up, creating large white mountains up to 30 feet tall. Spend time learning the story of Billmeyer, the abandoned limestone quarry and forgotten town. Then enjoy exploring the cliffs from top to bottom. |
Mile 12-13 Stop and check out the Trail Logbook. Don't over look this gem. This logbook is packed full of adventures, history, tips and yes maybe an innapropriate doodle or two but it's good stuff! It's worth the time to flip through. It's amazing how much one trail can do for so many people. Don't forget to leave your mark before you hit the trail again! | Mile 13-14 Falmouth Forest Garden will soon be blossoming with native plants! It covers five acres and is located within the Conoy Wetlands Nature Preserve. Explore the garden and the short trails surrounding it while keeping an eye out for a variety of native birds and other wildlife! | Mile 14 + Conewango Falls is the end of the line. You'll might hear it but you'll surly be sorry if you don't get close enough to see it for yourself! The sculpted rocks and potholes found at the foot of the falls is truly a sight to see. The igneous rock, believed to have been left behind from glaciers has been sculpted into intricate patterns is a clear testament to the power of water. | There's so much more! It doesn't matter how much time you have spent on the Northwest Lancaster Co. River Trail, there still something new to see! |
There is so much packed into a small stretch of river, evidence of the rich history these small towns. When you are finished, step off the trail and take some time to discover what these river towns have to offer. |
more Wonders on the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail
Where do you land on our adventure scale?
|
we're a solid 5
And. We. Are. Not. Even. Mad.
You could catch us participating in any of these activities but at any moment,
we are ready to go camping! That's our happy place.
Plus, we get to wrap a lot of these mini-adventures into our camping trips!
Think of us like adventure opportunist, ready to capitalize on fun.
When it comes to adventure; We're "Yes Men", we don't say no!
We are always down to try/learn new things.
Disclaimer: No promises that we'll try them again!
You could catch us participating in any of these activities but at any moment,
we are ready to go camping! That's our happy place.
Plus, we get to wrap a lot of these mini-adventures into our camping trips!
Think of us like adventure opportunist, ready to capitalize on fun.
When it comes to adventure; We're "Yes Men", we don't say no!
We are always down to try/learn new things.
Disclaimer: No promises that we'll try them again!
Find your next adventure
No matter what kind of adventure you're after, just get out there!
Adventure is ambiguous, it means something different to each person.
We are all shaped by our individual adventures throughout our life's, we crave them.
We keep coming back for more!
How can you have a "real" adventure with out going somewhere "cool".
The internet has ruined us. It's not about what everyone else is doing. Sure, it's fun to aspire to go to the beautiful places that fill our social media feeds, but adventure is not about keeping up with the Jones'. In fact, one could say it's actually quite the opposite.
There's nothing wrong with being inspired by someone else's journey.
No one would be upset to hear that their outdoor journey influenced you in a positive way. However once you start up the trail, you will find it's much more rewarding to walk your own path. Unlike the overconnected domain of the internet, it's easy to loose sight of unimportant things amongst the throngs of trees, liking keeping up with other people.
No adventure seems meaningful or grand in the moment.
Not every adventure is grand, and every excursion has its purposes. Part of the adventure is in the reflection. Don't limit yourself, the freedom of discovery through experience is what being an adventurer is all about.
Try something new, rediscover or share something you already love.
Seize the opportunities by saying yes to adventure, all of them!
You're not going to love them all, but you how will you know if you don't go!
Adventure is ambiguous, it means something different to each person.
We are all shaped by our individual adventures throughout our life's, we crave them.
We keep coming back for more!
How can you have a "real" adventure with out going somewhere "cool".
The internet has ruined us. It's not about what everyone else is doing. Sure, it's fun to aspire to go to the beautiful places that fill our social media feeds, but adventure is not about keeping up with the Jones'. In fact, one could say it's actually quite the opposite.
There's nothing wrong with being inspired by someone else's journey.
No one would be upset to hear that their outdoor journey influenced you in a positive way. However once you start up the trail, you will find it's much more rewarding to walk your own path. Unlike the overconnected domain of the internet, it's easy to loose sight of unimportant things amongst the throngs of trees, liking keeping up with other people.
No adventure seems meaningful or grand in the moment.
Not every adventure is grand, and every excursion has its purposes. Part of the adventure is in the reflection. Don't limit yourself, the freedom of discovery through experience is what being an adventurer is all about.
Try something new, rediscover or share something you already love.
Seize the opportunities by saying yes to adventure, all of them!
You're not going to love them all, but you how will you know if you don't go!
Phone Apps to Level up your outdoor adventures
If you're going to have it with you, it better carry it's own weight.
Make your phone more then dead weight with these outdoor themed smart phone apps. Work smarter not harder! At least until you lose service.
Make your phone more then dead weight with these outdoor themed smart phone apps. Work smarter not harder! At least until you lose service.
our top 9 picks
1. All Trails
The All Trails app is a perfect addition to your hikes. It is packed full of trail maps, information, photos and reviews from your fellow hikers. You can also record your hikes and the app will automatically chart your data. If you are hiking a new trail, ticking off your hiking bucket list or just curious about your hiking stats All trails might be perfect for you. The app is free.
2. Pa Fish & Boat Commission
Get mobile access to stocking schedules and streams. Find out information on rules and regulations for fishing and boating in the state of Pennsylvania. This is a free app.
3. Hipcamp
Looking for private campsites? Trying to avoid crowds, campgrounds and get a more catered experience? This might be the app for you, Hipcamp is for booking reservations. This is a relatively new idea, it's a lot like Air B&B but for camping! Read detailed descriptions and reviews of the campsites and hosts before staying. This is a free app.
4. Pa Game Commission
The Pa Game Commission app is a great resource for maps, seasons dates, regulations and more. Find Pennsylvania specific information on the go. This is a free app.
5. OnXHunt
OnXHunt is a fantastic app for GPS, maps, waypoints, and accurate landownership information. We use this app to check property lines and ensure we are never trespassing on private property during our adventures. This is a paid app but you can try it out with a 7 day free trial.
6. Outdoorsy
Looking to rent an RV? Search for RV rentals near you using Outdoorsy. The app is free.
7. Fish Brain
Looking for a social platform to show off your fishing skills? Fish brain is a perfect place for anglers to share their tips, tricks, location and their catch. It makes it easy to find new fishing buddies and what fish they are catching and where! The app is free.
8. Geocache
This is a fun way to hit the trails, especially with the kids. Use the Geocache app to hunt down different types of caches for fun. Track the geocaches you find in the app and sign the log books in the actual caches once you find them. Who doesn't like finding hidden treasure? The app is free but also offers a paid version with significantly more geocaches available to find.
9. Thedyrt
TheDyrt is for booking campsites. Find campsites all over the country in National Parks, Large Campgrounds and private campsites. Book your camping sites right through the app. You'll find detailed information and reviews. There are incentives for leaving reviews and contests to enter! The app is free.
Honorable mentions
We have found all of these apps useful, at different times on our adventures
& we hope you do too!
& we hope you do too!
"Business as usual"
In light of current events, we though it important to let you know that River Rock Recreation Campsite will open for the season.
At this point in the development of the COVID19 pandemic, Gov. Wolf has ordered the closure of all Non Life-Sustaining Business and asked every Pennsylvanian to self quarantine. However in the comprehensive list, under Leisure & Hospitality, RV parks and Recreational Camps (residential only) may continue physical operations, at this time.
Given our unique attributes as a single-private campsite, the risks posed to our operation is minimal. As the situation evolves and changes with time, we will reassess our decision as needed to ensure the safety of the public and adhere to the recommendations given by the state.
We are hopeful that by then everyone will be starting to return to their normal routines.
At this point in the development of the COVID19 pandemic, Gov. Wolf has ordered the closure of all Non Life-Sustaining Business and asked every Pennsylvanian to self quarantine. However in the comprehensive list, under Leisure & Hospitality, RV parks and Recreational Camps (residential only) may continue physical operations, at this time.
Given our unique attributes as a single-private campsite, the risks posed to our operation is minimal. As the situation evolves and changes with time, we will reassess our decision as needed to ensure the safety of the public and adhere to the recommendations given by the state.
We are hopeful that by then everyone will be starting to return to their normal routines.
social distancing in an outdoor setting
Social distancing is an important tool employed to contain the spread of the virus.
One you should be actively using, even when you are outside.
At this time, it is okay to be outside.
Most PA recreational spaces are still open for public use.
However, all facilities have been closed, this means bathrooms too.
Please adhere to all advice given by the CDC.
Practice social distancing on recreational trails, green-open spaces in nature.
Stay six feet apart and do not hike in groups greater than five.
If you are sick-stay home.
leave no trace
Leave No Trace - More Important Than Ever For Our Local Green Spaces
There is a plethora of therapeutic and mental health benefits to gain from spending time in nature. In this trying time, throngs of people are heading into nature to find a reprieve.
We need to be knowledgeable of our impact and respect nature.
This is a great opportunity to brush up on and teach the 7 principals of the leave no trace outdoor ethics to our children. In this way we can actively preserve and enjoy our local green spaces.
Follow us on Social Media for a Window into Nature!
Are you looking for something to do? Who doesn't love a good scavenger hunt?!
Use these scavenger hunts to get you outside!
The Nature Scavenger Hunt is great for younger children!
You can complete this checklist on a nature walk or day at the park.
Help kids connect with the natural world around them by encouraging them to use their senses.
You can complete this checklist on a nature walk or day at the park.
Help kids connect with the natural world around them by encouraging them to use their senses.
The Photo Scavenger Hunt is perfect for adults or the older kids!
Do you have an eye for nature? Try this checklist next time your at our campsite.
Tap into your creative side and connect with nature using a camera.
Do you have an eye for nature? Try this checklist next time your at our campsite.
Tap into your creative side and connect with nature using a camera.
The Trail Passport will take you great places!
Use this checklist next time you're on the NW Lancaster Co. River Trail.
It might take more than more trip to uncover local history and discover all the local features along the way!
Use this checklist next time you're on the NW Lancaster Co. River Trail.
It might take more than more trip to uncover local history and discover all the local features along the way!
how to start planning your camping trip
You've got to start somewhere!
Planning a perfect campout may seem overwhelming at first glace.
Like any adventure, it starts with a solid plan!
Focus your camping needs by drawing yourself a road map.
Tackle the task by starting with the basics.
Let us help you kick start your plan with these 6 steps!
Planning a perfect campout may seem overwhelming at first glace.
Like any adventure, it starts with a solid plan!
Focus your camping needs by drawing yourself a road map.
Tackle the task by starting with the basics.
Let us help you kick start your plan with these 6 steps!
6 basics of planning a campout
Some quick brainstorming will outline your camping needs
1. Date
When do you want to go camping?
Pick a season and a date. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your trip. Keep in mind some of the most popular outdoor destinations have a waiting list for reservations.
2. Who
Who is going camping with you?
If you're going alone this part is no sweat. Otherwise, you'll need to know who's coming when making a reservation. It's common practice that campsite reservations are calculated by the number of campers. There's usually a maximum number of campers allowed per site, you got to know how many sites to book based on your group.
You are in control of how much time everyone has to prepare.
We recommend picking a date early and letting everyone know the date as soon as possible. This way everyone can make arrangements, sort out other obligations and can commit to the trip sooner rather than later.
3. Gear
What kind of camping are you looking to do?
Think about the basic gear you absolutely can not go camping with out.
That's where you start. You need your shelter (tent), sleeping bags (mattress/pad/cot), basic gear like lanterns, clothing, your personal toiletries and a first aid kit (medications).
From there, take what ever it is you need to feel comfortable for the amount of time you are camping. Try making a list of the items, aim to narrow down your selection.
The world is your oyster, if you can pack it you can take it, there are no rules.
Unless of coarse there are rule where you are staying.
4. Where
Select the location you want to camp in!
Take a road trip, visit somewhere grand, revisit a favorite site or stay close to home.
Start looking for your perfect destination. Now that you know when, who and what gear you need; you have all the information you need to nail down there where.
Now you have the information you need to make a reservation once you find it.
Make sure you know the basic information about where you are camping.
Read the rules, regulations, waivers and any other need-to-know information pertaining to where you will be camping. Make a note of the emergency services and protocols for that area and activities you plan on participating in.
5. Food
Easy Peasy.
You've got to eat. The biggest chore, the most stuff.
Put some time into what you are going to eat now so you don't pay for it later with your time!
Gather your cooking gear. Grab your best camp recipes.
How are you going to cook and what do you need/have to cook with.
Make a list of your cold foods and drinks that need to be in a cooler and a separate list of your dry foods.
We recommend keeping it simple, freezing anything you can and preparing as much as possible ahead of time. This saves a lot of head ache at the campsite and leaves you with way more time to enjoy yourself.
6. Activities
What do you want to do during your trip?
What are you looking to get out of your camp out? Some people are in it for the adventure, others want to hike to all the places or there's those who just want to unwind by the campfire.
Plan to bring any gear for recreational activities like fishing or kayaking. Dust off your board games, outdoor games and other sporting goods. Don't forget a good book, your journal or maybe your new camera.
Planning makes for an epic trip. Thinking about what the goal of your camping trip is will help you decide what you need to bring in this category. For some of us it's super simple, for others its all about complex sports. It doesn't matter how you do you!
Just make it an epic camping trip.
When do you want to go camping?
Pick a season and a date. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your trip. Keep in mind some of the most popular outdoor destinations have a waiting list for reservations.
2. Who
Who is going camping with you?
If you're going alone this part is no sweat. Otherwise, you'll need to know who's coming when making a reservation. It's common practice that campsite reservations are calculated by the number of campers. There's usually a maximum number of campers allowed per site, you got to know how many sites to book based on your group.
You are in control of how much time everyone has to prepare.
We recommend picking a date early and letting everyone know the date as soon as possible. This way everyone can make arrangements, sort out other obligations and can commit to the trip sooner rather than later.
3. Gear
What kind of camping are you looking to do?
Think about the basic gear you absolutely can not go camping with out.
That's where you start. You need your shelter (tent), sleeping bags (mattress/pad/cot), basic gear like lanterns, clothing, your personal toiletries and a first aid kit (medications).
From there, take what ever it is you need to feel comfortable for the amount of time you are camping. Try making a list of the items, aim to narrow down your selection.
The world is your oyster, if you can pack it you can take it, there are no rules.
Unless of coarse there are rule where you are staying.
4. Where
Select the location you want to camp in!
Take a road trip, visit somewhere grand, revisit a favorite site or stay close to home.
Start looking for your perfect destination. Now that you know when, who and what gear you need; you have all the information you need to nail down there where.
Now you have the information you need to make a reservation once you find it.
Make sure you know the basic information about where you are camping.
Read the rules, regulations, waivers and any other need-to-know information pertaining to where you will be camping. Make a note of the emergency services and protocols for that area and activities you plan on participating in.
5. Food
Easy Peasy.
You've got to eat. The biggest chore, the most stuff.
Put some time into what you are going to eat now so you don't pay for it later with your time!
Gather your cooking gear. Grab your best camp recipes.
How are you going to cook and what do you need/have to cook with.
Make a list of your cold foods and drinks that need to be in a cooler and a separate list of your dry foods.
We recommend keeping it simple, freezing anything you can and preparing as much as possible ahead of time. This saves a lot of head ache at the campsite and leaves you with way more time to enjoy yourself.
6. Activities
What do you want to do during your trip?
What are you looking to get out of your camp out? Some people are in it for the adventure, others want to hike to all the places or there's those who just want to unwind by the campfire.
Plan to bring any gear for recreational activities like fishing or kayaking. Dust off your board games, outdoor games and other sporting goods. Don't forget a good book, your journal or maybe your new camera.
Planning makes for an epic trip. Thinking about what the goal of your camping trip is will help you decide what you need to bring in this category. For some of us it's super simple, for others its all about complex sports. It doesn't matter how you do you!
Just make it an epic camping trip.
Let it all come together
Before you know it you'll be camping.
There are still some other details to iron out but you just got the bulk of it done. As your trip gets closer, finetune and rework what you've got as needed.
You have a solid plan.
Plans do change, so be flexible.
Part of the camping fun is when things go wrong. Looking back and laughing at those moments where camping goes a little south is what it's about. Even when you are totally prepared, you are probably under prepared but it's only for a few nights.
Don't over think it, just have fun.
There are still some other details to iron out but you just got the bulk of it done. As your trip gets closer, finetune and rework what you've got as needed.
You have a solid plan.
Plans do change, so be flexible.
Part of the camping fun is when things go wrong. Looking back and laughing at those moments where camping goes a little south is what it's about. Even when you are totally prepared, you are probably under prepared but it's only for a few nights.
Don't over think it, just have fun.