Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Shikellamy State Park is located in Union and Northumberland counties in Pennsylvania, overlooking the confluence of the Susquehanna and West Branch Susquehanna Rivers. The park spans primarily two areas on opposite sides of the river, providing visitors panoramic views from the Shikellamy Overlook on the bluff above the confluence. The park’s name honors Shikellamy, an important 18th-century Oneida leader and diplomat who played a key role in relations between Native Americans and European settlers. The geography of the park includes rugged cliffs, river valleys, and forested slopes featuring mixed hardwoods and native species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking, with well-maintained trails and paved walkways accessible at both the overlook and the river level. The park is particularly popular for observing migratory birds and seasonal wildlife, especially at the overlook, which provides a vantage point for watching bald eagles and other raptors. The river below also offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Facilities include picnic areas, playgrounds, and a visitor center with historical displays. The park’s combination of scenic beauty, recreational amenities, and cultural history attracts family outings, school groups, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
