Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cornwall Iron Furnace State Park, located in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, encompasses 55 acres centered around a significant industrial relic — the Cornwall Iron Furnace. Dating back to 1742, the furnace is one of the oldest surviving iron producing structures in the United States and was instrumental in America's colonial iron industry. The park is situated along the Quittapahilla Creek, surrounded by forested hills typical of the region's Appalachian foothills. The ecology includes mixed hardwood forests, riparian zones, and common Pennsylvania wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a variety of small mammals and songbirds. Visitors can explore the fully restored furnace, which operated until 1883, through guided tours offered by the park. These tours provide a detailed look at early iron production techniques and local industrial history. Beyond historical interpretation, the park features walking trails that loop through wooded areas, picnic spots, and fishing opportunities in the creek. It’s a peaceful location that offers a connection to Pennsylvania’s industrial past alongside light outdoor recreation. The park’s quiet setting also appeals to photographers and history enthusiasts. Cornwall Iron Furnace State Park showcases the intertwining of natural landscape with the legacy of early American industry, providing a unique educational and recreational experience for families, school groups, and visitors interested in history and nature.
