Green Lane Reservoir wilderness guide
Reservoir and Recreation Area · PA
Birdwatching Guide

Green Lane Reservoir

Green Lane Reservoir is a popular water supply reservoir and recreation area in southeastern Pennsylvania offering fishing, hiking, boating, and birdwatching opportunities within a quiet natural setting.

Reservoir and Recreation Area3,5004+ Trails

Designation

Reservoir and Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

3,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Green Lane Reservoir

Green Lane Reservoir is a popular water supply reservoir and recreation area in southeastern Pennsylvania offering fishing, hiking, boating, and birdwatching opportunities within a quiet natural setting.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Green Lane Reservoir is located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, close to the Delaware River and part of the Delaware River Basin. Created in the 1950s to serve as a water supply reservoir for the region, it covers approximately 530 acres of open water surrounded by over 3,000 acres of protected lands managed primarily by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Montgomery County. The area is forested with a mix of hardwoods and coniferous trees, supporting diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various waterfowl. Its peaceful atmosphere and maintained facilities attract anglers, kayakers, and birders, while miles of multi-use trails provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Green Lane Reservoir also features a boat launch and picnic areas, making it a family-friendly destination. The reservoir's connection to the Schuylkill River contributes to regional water management and conservation efforts. Visitors appreciate the blend of aquatic and terrestrial environments, the relatively low crowd levels compared to larger parks nearby, and the robust population of warm-water fish species such as largemouth bass and panfish. Historic remnants of early 20th-century Pennsylvania can still be found nearby, including old farmhouses and stone walls that outline the landscape. The site serves as both a recreational resource and an important habitat for migratory birds and local wildlife, balancing human use with environmental stewardship.

Field Guide · Reservoir and Recreation Area

Notable Landscape Features

Iconic geological landmarks, alpine vantage points, and distinctive ecosystems in Green Lane Reservoir.

Feature 1

Green Lane Reservoir

A 530-acre reservoir providing clean water and recreational boating opportunities.

Feature 2

Multi-Use Trail Network

A series of trails totaling approximately 12 miles, supporting hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Feature 3

Wildlife Habitat

Forested areas and shoreline habitats that support diverse species including migratory birds and native mammals.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Green Lane Reservoir Boat Launch for kayak and canoe accessDiverse birdwatching with migratory waterfowl and woodland speciesMulti-use trail system suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback ridingQuiet fishing spots with largemouth bass and panfish populations
Iconic Trails & Natural Landmarks

Top Trails & Sights in Green Lane Reservoir

Discover summit paths, alpine loops, and natural wonders within this protected wilderness.

Moderate6

Perimeter Trail

Encircles the reservoir providing scenic water views and access to fishing spots.

Easy3

Blue Trail

A gentle route through mixed hardwood forests popular for birdwatching.

Moderate4

Green Trail

Connects trailheads along the northern shore with moderate elevation changes.

Challenging2.5

Red Trail

A steeper, more rugged section favored by mountain bikers.

Unique Geological Wonders at Ringing Rocks County Park, PA7.4
Rock Formation

Unique Geological Wonders at Ringing Rocks County Park, PA

Explore Ringing Rocks County Park near Upper Black Eddy, PA, featuring a moderate hike through unique ringing boulders and a 15-foot waterfall. Enjoy rock striking, wildlife spotting, and peaceful forest trails in mostly dry conditions from spring to fall.

Upper Black Eddy, PennsylvaniaExplore Sight
Discover the Delaware River’s Natural Beauty7.2
River Access

Discover the Delaware River’s Natural Beauty

Explore the Delaware River for breathtaking views and an array of outdoor activities. Canoeing, hiking along the Appalachian Trail, and fishing are popular here. Spring to fall offers the best experience with opportunities to see diverse wildlife.

Delaware Water Gap, PennsylvaniaExplore Sight
Scenic Wonder at Pulpit Rock, Pennsylvania6.3
Scenic Viewpoint

Scenic Wonder at Pulpit Rock, Pennsylvania

Experience the stunning vistas of Pulpit Rock along the Appalachian Trail in Kempton, PA. This moderately challenging hike is ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, with picturesque views especially captivating in spring and fall.

Kempton, PennsylvaniaExplore Sight
Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary8.8
Wildlife Viewing Area

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is renowned for birdwatching, particularly during fall migrations. The sanctuary is a photographer's delight but can get busy during peak seasons. Enjoy hiking and catching sight of migratory raptors in this protected area.

Hamburg, PennsylvaniaExplore Sight
Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls8.5
Waterfall

Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls

Explore Glen Onoko Falls near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Known for its scenic beauty and challenging access, this area offers hiking and birding opportunities. Access to the falls is restricted for safety. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Jim Thorpe, PennsylvaniaExplore Sight
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Green Lane Reservoir

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Spotlight

Birdwatching in Green Lane Reservoir

View Full Park Guide

Green Lane Reservoir offers exceptional terrain and routes for birdwatching, featuring established access paths, scenic vistas, and protected wilderness territory.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Green Lane Reservoir.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required for day use; fishing requires a Pennsylvania fishing license.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Green Lane Reservoir

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic desert basecamps surrounding the park.

Green Lane, Pennsylvania, PA
Gateway Basecamp

Green Lane, Pennsylvania, PA

Green Lane, Pennsylvania offers a tranquil outdoor escape with scenic hiking, paddling, and mountain biking around its expansive reservoir and parklands. Perfect for outdoor lovers wanting peaceful nature experiences and diverse wildlife viewing.

Spring through Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for skiing and quiet outdoor explorationExplore Town
Palm Beach, New South Wales, PA
Gateway Basecamp

Palm Beach, New South Wales, PA

Palm Beach, NSW, is a coastal playground for outdoor lovers offering scenic hikes, calm waters for paddling, refreshing beach swims, and great fishing spots. Its iconic lighthouse trail and protected parks provide year-round adventure in a beautiful setting.

Spring to AutumnExplore Town
Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, PA
Gateway Basecamp

Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, PA

Schwenksville is a peaceful Pennsylvania town ideal for hiking, biking, and paddling along the Perkiomen Trail and nearby rivers. It’s a great spot to enjoy quiet outdoor adventures within easy reach of Philadelphia.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Green Lane Reservoir

Explore with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and wilderness outfitters.

Philadelphia After Dark: A Private 1‑Hour Electric Cart Sweep of Independence Hall, City Hall and the Rocky Steps
Certified Outfitter

Philadelphia After Dark: A Private 1‑Hour Electric Cart Sweep of Independence Hall, City Hall and the Rocky Steps

A private, one‑hour evening electric‑cart tour that covers Philadelphia’s top illuminated landmarks—ideal for seeing Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, City Hall, Chinatown and the Rocky Steps without daytime crowds.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Bethlehem’s Two-Day PADI Rescue Diver Course: Become the Dive Buddy Everyone Counts On
Certified Outfitter

Bethlehem’s Two-Day PADI Rescue Diver Course: Become the Dive Buddy Everyone Counts On

A two-day PADI Rescue Diver course with a pool session and an open-water dive that teaches emergency response, navigation, and emergency-oxygen use—this guide explains what’s included, prerequisites, and how to book.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Ninety Minutes Through Old City: A Rapid, Intimate Walk Through the Birthplace of American Liberty
Certified Outfitter

Ninety Minutes Through Old City: A Rapid, Intimate Walk Through the Birthplace of American Liberty

A guided, 90-minute walking tour of Old City that visits Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House and other founding-era sites, ideal for anyone seeking a concentrated history primer.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
A Private, Sommelier-Paced Wine Journey Through Stellenbosch & Franschhoek
Certified Outfitter

A Private, Sommelier-Paced Wine Journey Through Stellenbosch & Franschhoek

A fully private, full-day tasting that visits four iconic estates—sparkling to premium reds—with a wine‑paired gourmet lunch; this guide lays out the route, logistics, and what to bring.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Knowing Native Plants: Classic Asters and Their Colorful Companions — a close, expert-led study of asters on the banks of New Hope
Certified Outfitter

Knowing Native Plants: Classic Asters and Their Colorful Companions — a close, expert-led study of asters on the banks of New Hope

A three-hour, expert-led exploration of native asters, their habitats, and which species make the best additions to your garden.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Morning Worship, Fellowship and a Guided Cathedral Tour in Bryn Athyn
Certified Outfitter

Morning Worship, Fellowship and a Guided Cathedral Tour in Bryn Athyn

A morning program combining Adult Worship at 11 AM, fellowship in the Social Hall, and a 12:15–1 PM guided Cathedral tour; reservations are required.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Hands‑On Falconry in New Hope: Fly a Hawk to Your Gloved Hand
Certified Outfitter

Hands‑On Falconry in New Hope: Fly a Hawk to Your Gloved Hand

A 45–60 minute private falconry session led by Masters Of The Skies where participants ages 9 and up learn to fly a hawk to and from their gloved hand—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Hawk to Hand, Owl to Sky: A 90‑Minute Falconry Immersion Near New Hope
Certified Outfitter

Hawk to Hand, Owl to Sky: A 90‑Minute Falconry Immersion Near New Hope

A 90-minute, hands-on falconry session that lets participants fly a hawk, watch it fed, then take a barn owl on the glove—this guide lays out what to expect and how to plan.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
A Little-Giant Holiday: Kempton’s Santa Claus Express on the WK&S
Certified Outfitter

A Little-Giant Holiday: Kempton’s Santa Claus Express on the WK&S

A heated 40‑minute family train ride with Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty and the Elves, free children’s gifts, treats and a model‑train display — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
A Singing Caboose and Warm Cookies: An Evening With Mrs. Claus at the North Pole Bakery in Kempton
Certified Outfitter

A Singing Caboose and Warm Cookies: An Evening With Mrs. Claus at the North Pole Bakery in Kempton

A 40-minute, family-focused holiday ride by WK&S Railroad in Kempton that brings riders to the North Pole Bakery to decorate freshly baked cookies, sip hot chocolate, and hear Christmas stories.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Harvest Moon Special: A 45‑Minute Moonlit Train from Kempton Station
Certified Outfitter

Harvest Moon Special: A 45‑Minute Moonlit Train from Kempton Station

A concise guide to the Harvest Moon Special—a 45-minute moonlight train ride from Kempton with live music and complimentary warm drinks and cookies—so you know what to expect.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Nightfall Through the Dutch Country: Kempton’s Tropical Wine & Cheese Train
Certified Outfitter

Nightfall Through the Dutch Country: Kempton’s Tropical Wine & Cheese Train

A 90-minute, adults-only evening excursion through Pennsylvania Dutch Country featuring wines from King Cole Winery and cheeses from BAD Farm—this guide distills what to expect and how to plan.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Hands-On Dumplings, Peking Duck, and Market Walks: Chinatown with Chef Ange Branca
Certified Outfitter

Hands-On Dumplings, Peking Duck, and Market Walks: Chinatown with Chef Ange Branca

A focused, four-hour culinary walk through Philadelphia’s Chinatown—private dumpling-making, Peking duck, Vietnamese classics and neighborhood grocery stops—so you know what to expect before you come hungry.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Hot Glass, Cold Focus: Six Sessions to Sharpen Your Blown Forms at East Falls Glassworks
Certified Outfitter

Hot Glass, Cold Focus: Six Sessions to Sharpen Your Blown Forms at East Falls Glassworks

A six-session intermediate hot-glass course in Philadelphia that advances basic glassblowing skills through focused, studio-based practice and guided work on vessels and blown forms.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Forged in Fire: Six Sessions at East Falls Glassworks in Philadelphia
Certified Outfitter

Forged in Fire: Six Sessions at East Falls Glassworks in Philadelphia

An introductory six‑session hot‑glass course in Philadelphia where beginners learn safety and essential techniques while shaping molten glass at 2,000 degrees.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience