Boyd Big Tree Preserve wilderness guide
State Park · PA

Boyd Big Tree Preserve

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area is a haven for those who appreciate the tranquility of uninterrupted woodland and diverse wildlife, offering a reprieve from urban life with its extensive hiking trails and forested landscapes.

State Park1,0254+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area1,025
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Boyd Big Tree Preserve

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area is a haven for those who appreciate the tranquility of uninterrupted woodland and diverse wildlife, offering a reprieve from urban life with its extensive hiking trails and forested landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area spans over 1,000 acres of scenic Pennsylvania woodland, providing a protected habitat where diverse flora and fauna thrive. Situated in Dauphin County, this preserve is notable for its large tracts of mature trees, including oaks, hickories, and maples, which support a rich ecosystem. Historically, this area serves as an example of successful conservation efforts aimed at maintaining the natural landscape and its biodiversity. Visitors are drawn to the area for its peaceful trekking opportunities across 12 miles of trails, which offer varying degrees of difficulty and a chance to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds. Landmarks such as the scenic views from the high ridge trails add to the park's appeal. Boyd Big Tree is a testament to Pennsylvania's commitment to protecting natural environments while providing accessible recreational spaces for the public.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Boyd Big Tree Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic vistas from the preserve's ridge trails✦ Diverse birdwatching opportunities with numerous songbird species✦ Spacious picnic areas for family gatherings✦ Seasonal wildflower blooms providing a colorful landscape
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Boyd Big Tree Preserve

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Boyd Big Tree Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Boyd Big Tree Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access year-round with no permit required

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Boyd Big Tree Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Boyd Big Tree Preserve

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

Dauphin, Pennsylvania
⌖ 2.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dauphin, Pennsylvania

Dauphin is a small riverside town ideal for paddling, fishing, and quiet hiking along the Susquehanna River. With scenic trails and nearby state parks, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a peaceful nature escape.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Wormleysburg, Pennsylvania
⌖ 5.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wormleysburg, Pennsylvania

Wormleysburg, Pennsylvania offers peaceful paddling on the Susquehanna River, scenic cycling trails, and excellent birdwatching near the state capital. It's a perfect basecamp for outdoor lovers seeking river adventures and urban access.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
⌖ 5.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Explore Harrisburg for river adventures and urban exploration. From kayaking the Susquehanna to hiking scenic trails and cycling the riverfront, it's an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking variety.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
⌖ 6.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, offers a peaceful outdoor escape with hiking, biking, and kayaking along the Susquehanna River. Perfect for river paddling, bird watching, and casual fishing, it’s a quiet gem for nature lovers close to urban conveniences.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
⌖ 10.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Mechanicsburg offers easy access to creek paddling, scenic bike trails, and nearby forest trails. This quiet Pennsylvania town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a nature break close to small-town charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Middletown, Pennsylvania
⌖ 13.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Middletown, Pennsylvania

Middletown, PA offers peaceful riverside trails, paddling on the Susquehanna, and nearby state parks perfect for hiking, biking, and camping. This quiet town is a great base for outdoor lovers seeking easy access to nature.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Boyd Big Tree Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Marysville to West Fairview
ADVEXPEDITION
Marysville, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Marysville to West Fairview

This six-mile paddle along the Susquehanna runs from Marysville to West Fairview and offers a short, wildlife-rich river escape. Float beneath the historic Rockville Bridge and watch nesting birds at Wade Island—ideal for families and photographers.

Water Activities6 Miles • 2-4 HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Duncannon to Marysville
ADVEXPEDITION
Marysville, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Duncannon to Marysville

Float eight scenic miles of the Susquehanna from Duncannon to Heritage Park in Marysville—an ideal half-day paddle for families and adventurous beginners. Expect wide river views, small islands, playful waves, and simple shuttle logistics to keep the focus on paddling.

Water Activities8 Miles • 3-5 Hours • Our Most POPULAR Trip!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Multi-Day Raft Trip: Sweigart’s Island
ADVEXPEDITION
Marysville, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Multi-Day Raft Trip: Sweigart’s Island

Float 27 miles of the Susquehanna over three days and two nights, paddling through island camps, willow-lined banks, and broad riffles. This family-friendly trip from bluemountainoutfitters pairs guided instruction with comfortable river camping for newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike.

Water Activities27 Miles - 3 Days, 2 NightsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Overnight Raft Trip: Liverpool
ADVEXPEDITION
Marysville, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Overnight Raft Trip: Liverpool

Paddle 21 miles of slow Susquehanna water, camp riverside, and spend one night under the stars between Liverpool and Marysville. Ideal for families and mixed-skill groups looking for a low-stress overnight paddle.

Water Activities21 MilesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Overnight Raft Trip: Clemson’s Island
ADVEXPEDITION
Marysville, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Overnight Raft Trip: Clemson’s Island

Paddle a roughly 15-mile overnight route from Marysville to Clemson’s Island on the Susquehanna—camp on gravel bars, watch for ospreys, and choose from kayaks or canoes for a family-friendly micro-expedition.

Water Activities15 MilesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Tubing-5.5 Hour Trip-  Saturday 9:00AM -Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing
ADVEXPEDITION
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
River TubeADV Bookable

Tubing-5.5 Hour Trip- Saturday 9:00AM -Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing

Float down Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River on a scenic tubing trip from Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing, perfect for relaxing days in nature. Discover the area's natural beauty and wildlife on this popular water adventure.

River Tube5.5 hour trip- Peak Season... Saturdays Only!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Meet & Feed the Gentle Giants
ADVEXPEDITION
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
AttractionADV Bookable

Meet & Feed the Gentle Giants

Interact with some of the largest tortoises on Earth at Clyde Peeling's Reptiland. This hands-on experience is perfect for families and wildlife lovers seeking a close encounter with nature’s gentle giants. Dive into an unforgettable animal encounter with Aldabra tortoises at Clyde Peeling's Reptiland, where education and interaction collide in a fun, conservation-minded setting. This unique experience promises memorable moments for all ages, making it a must-visit stop for wildlife enthusiasts in Pennsylvania.

AttractionGet to know our lovable Aldabra tortoises!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Chief Uncas - Haunted Heritage Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Wrightsville, Pennsylvania
AttractionADV Bookable

Chief Uncas - Haunted Heritage Tour

Discover the spooky side of Susquehanna with the Chief Uncas Haunted Heritage Tour. Perfect for ghost story lovers and autumn enthusiasts, this river cruise blends thrilling tales with beautiful fall scenery for an unforgettable evening.

AttractionCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip