Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Allegheny Islands State Park consists of three alluvial islands located in the Allegheny River near the city of Oakmont, Pennsylvania. The park’s islands—Brunot, McCormick, and Ford—cover approximately 74 acres of largely untouched hardwood forest ecosystems that provide critical habitat for migratory birds, native fish species, and diverse plant life. The islands are known for their mature riverine forests dominated by sycamores, maples, and cottonwoods. The park’s geography as mid-river islands creates a rare environment largely inaccessible except by boat or kayak, making it a favored spot for paddlers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking solitude. Historically, the islands were once used intermittently for logging and industrial purposes but have since reverted to a more natural state after acquisition by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Recreationally, visitors are drawn to the park primarily for boating, fishing, bird watching, and photography. Due to the park’s limited development, there are no official marked trails or campgrounds on the islands, encouraging low-impact visits and wildlife observation. The island group is protected to preserve riparian forest habitat and water quality in the Allegheny River corridor. Access is primarily by canoe or kayak, with launch points available from nearby river access points. Because it is one of the few island parks in Pennsylvania with natural forest cover, Allegheny Islands State Park offers a rare glimpse into riverine ecosystems within a largely urbanized watershed.
