Lancaster is a city in Pennsylvania, United States. It is the county seat of Lancaster County. The city is the home of the Amish, a religious group that believes in seclusion and simple living.
The city boasts many coffee shops, restaurants, and parks. These parks have numerous trails, pavilions, sports fields, playgrounds, and other facilities.
All parks in Lancaster are perfect for getting active and having fun. They are open throughout the year.
Here are some of the top parks in Lancaster, PA.
Parks in Lancaster, PA
1. Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park
As the name suggests, Beau’s Dog Park is specifically for dogs and their owners. The park was opened in 2013, featuring a small and large dog area with splash pads.
A tennis ball tree is on the large dog side, while a doxy tunnel is on the small dog area. The park is accessible to all from sunrise to sunset.
Both sides of the park have covered seating with a beautiful view of the dogs while they play. That means dog owners can find a relaxing spot while keeping an eye on their canine friends.
That is not all; kids can play on the equipment in the park when tired of watching over the dogs. Bring your lunch and sit in the picnic area to enjoy yourself. There is also a basketball court and other facilities for sports lovers.
Only street parking is available here. Overall, Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park is a beautiful facility where dogs and their owners can have a wonderful time.
Address: 901 Buchanan Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603, United States
2. Landis Woods
Landis Woods extends nearly 70 acres and is wooded for the most part. The park is undeveloped but among the largest parks in Lancaster, PA.
If you are looking for a place to explore nature or take the kids, this park is a fantastic location. Climb the several logs and tree branches while playing with the children.
Walk along the woods and enjoy the stunning canopy of foliage that covers your head. Along the trails, you will find educational signs with information regarding the trees and wildlife in the park.
For relaxation, sit on the benches and picnic tables in the pavilion. Go to the Landis Woods Performing Arts Center if you don’t want to stay around the pavilion.
The area is also great for mountain bikers or walking dogs. Parking can be limited, but you will see a good parking spot off Meadow Lane.
Address: 2369 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, United States
3. East Lampeter Township Community Park
East Lampeter Township Community Park is a relaxing place to stop for a few hours after a stressful week. It is one of the best parks in Lancaster, PA. The attraction is friendly to both dogs and humans.
Diverse activities are going on each day, and you can engage in your favorite. There is something for everyone, from a playground for kids to a mini disc golf course and walking trails with exercise stations.
Children have great options for play, while teens and adults can select any sports activities, including football, baseball, and volleyball. The park provides paved wheelchair-accessible paths that lead to the creek.
The paths also offer scenic views of different locations. If you are looking for a place for morning workouts, this park provides excellent options. If the trails are insufficient, locate other exercise stations, including the 18-hole Frisbee golf course.
In addition, the pavilion at East Lampeter Township Community Park can be rented for diverse small-group events. If you bring your snacks or light meals, the picnic area is open for entertainment.
Everywhere is spacious to accommodate a large number of people. Besides, this community park is close to Amish Farms. The landscaping is more beautiful during spring when the flowering trees bloom.
Address: 2330 Hobson Rd, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States
4. Overlook Park
Are you looking for an attractive park in Lancaster with a little bit of everything? Overlook Park is an ideal destination. It is an expansive area to enjoy your favorite adventure.
This multi-use park is in the city’s heart, close to lovely attractions like restaurants. Dog owners can put their dogs on leash and let them off to the dog park.
Sports enthusiasts can explore the bocci ball courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, mini golf, and golf driving range. On the other hand, indoor buffs can read at the library or skate at the skating rink.
During summer, you can dip into the public swimming pool for a refreshing feeling. The whole family can take a leisurely walk along the walking trails. Afterward, the children can run off to the playground while their parents watch them at the picnic area.
There are tons of activities in Overlook Park, one of the newest addition to the many parks in Lancaster, PA.
Address: 2040 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, United States
5. Chickies Rock County Park
Chickies Rock County Park
Nestled between the boroughs of Columbia and Marietta, this park is the second largest in the region. Established in 1977, it derived its name from the American-Indian word ‘Chiquesalunga,’ meaning ‘Place of the crayfish.’
In addition, Chickies Rock County Park offers ample green space with creeks and stunning views. It is a fantastic place to visit, with distinct natural and geological features loaded with industrial heritage.
Inside the park is situated Breezyview, known for its panoramic views of Chickies Rock and the Susquehanna River. There is a Breezyview Gazebo, an ideal spot for weddings and private events.
The park also features walking paths, which give convenient access to Chiques and Donegal creeks. The kids will find the open play areas interesting, while the family can visit the boat launch point for more exciting activities.
Address: 880 Chickies Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512, United States
6. Lancaster County Central Park
One of the fun things to do in Lancaster is to explore Lancaster County Central Park. With various outdoor recreational features, the park offers a haven for entertainment.
It also has some historical buildings that remind you of the past. As a spacious destination, you can only reach all the sections of the park by driving.
Before trying any sports, visit the Garden of Five Sense in the heart of the park, an educational garden with labeled plants and trees. Somewhere along the line, you will find a covered bridge if you are taking a walk.
Another lovely spot is the sports field, which has ample equipment for various sporting activities. The skatepark is open for skaters to roll on.
Visitors who want to host an event can rent the pavilion. Also, try to check out the environmental center if you love nature.
If you visit during summer, you would love to plunge into the public swimming pool and cool off. Those who live in the city can dash off to this green space and have a fantastic time.
Address: 1050 Rockford Rd, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States
7. Forest E. Hull Park
Forest E. Hull Park is a wonderful neighborhood park where tourists and locals enjoy some fresh air. The park is colorful with expansive green space.
The feeling here is quaint. There is a lighted walking trail lined by small trees where you can take a walk. Dogs on a leash can join in the walk, or you can take them to the fenced dog park.
Let your children play in the open playground with beautiful facilities that draw them in. It is not unusual to see visitors having snacks or meals at the picnic area. Also, Forest E. Hull Park is not open for reservations.
Address: 2850 W Ave L12, Lancaster, CA 93536, United States
8. Long’s Park
Families looking for an outdoor location with natural beauty can head to Long’s Park. It provides eclectic amenities for children and adults to play, work out, hike, or relax.
The park is a hub of activities during summer, including music, art, and craft festivals. It sits on the northwest intersection of the town along Harrisburg Pike and Route 30.
This park boasts a spring-fed lake, playgrounds, a petting farm, and tennis courts. The fitness trail in the middle helps those who want a heartwarming exercise find a fantastic option.
Benches are scattered around the park, and guests can locate the picnic area to eat. Visit the zoo to see semi-tamed animals, from woodpeckers to robins and bluejays.
Everywhere around Landis Park is quiet and welcoming. Even though you can meet many people, it does not take away the fact that it is an excellent spot with recreational areas.
It is also wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly. Year-round, visitors can come. But summers have diverse events going on for the public.
Address: 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, United States
9. Lititz Springs Park
This little park in Lititz is privately owned by the Lititz Moravian Congregation and maintained by the Churches of Lititz.
Lititz Springs Park offers tranquility in the middle of a buzzing city. It is centrally located near restaurants, stores, and the visitor’s center. Spend time with water life as you stroll through the ponds. The paths are peaceful and well-maintained.
You will find great spots for picnicking with family and friends or to relax. Besides, the picnic area is near the playground where children can roll on the ground or play on the structures.
Remember to visit the Train Station of the Welcome Center in the heart of the park. Lititz Memorial Square is another location in the park to see.
Moreover, the park witnesses diverse events throughout the year, including the Fourth of July. Farmers Market also takes place in Lititz Springs Park, and you may be lucky to be around to purchase fresh farm-to-table goods.
Address: 24 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, United States
10. D.F. Buchmiller County Park
This is a fun location for taking your kids so they can run around and release some energy. D.F. Buchmiller County Park sprawls 79 acres with standard amenities for an outdoor experience.
This attraction is a historic park. Dulon F. Buchmiller, the original owner, donated it to the community. It is renowned for its open lawns and lovely plantings.
The park is a winter wonderland during the snow, attracting visitors who enjoy a walk in the cold. Golfers can play on the 18-hole disco golf course, a pride of the park.
Families can have lunch in the picnic area after the kids have filled. There are also tennis and volleyball courts for sports lovers.
Address: 60 Buchmiller Park Dr, Lancaster, PA 17602, United States
11. Daniels Den Playground
Regarding children’s fun, you can rely on Daniels Den Playground. The playground allows children of all ages and abilities to play and learn together.
Swings and slides are available for little ones, while the bigger kids can play with climbing walls and toys. Take your toddlers to the Tot Lot for their age-specific plays.
Kids can let their imagination run wild on the themed playground with train, ship, and treehouse as the themes. If your kids love to play in the water, you can take them to the Water Mist Area, but bring changing clothes.
In addition to the play facilities, the playground is well-maintained and has ample seating, both open and covered. If need be, there is a porta-potty around the playgrounds.
Daniels Den Playground is part of the Manor Church Community Park. It is open from dawn to dusk and is free to use.
Address: 530 Central Manor Rd, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA
12. Money Rocks County Park
Money Rocks County Park, nestled near the Narvon Clay Mine, covers more than 300 acres of woodland in the Welsh Mountains of the county’s eastern side.
The park prides itself in its Money Rocks, a rocky spine of boulders. This ridge provides spectacular views of towns, farmland, and distant wooded hills.
Money Rocks County Park is the best destination for hiking. The views make it a great place to relax. Although the trails can be rocky and loose, they are interesting if you wear good shoes.
An interconnection of mining and logging dirt roads makes this wooded park open to nature lovers. Parking is across from Alexander Drive.
Address: 936 Narvon Rd, Narvon, PA 17555, United States
13. Noel Dorwart Park
Noel Dorwart Park, also known as the Farmingdale Trail, covers over 70 acres of woodland with a trail system that extends to 3.5 miles. It is tucked between shopping centers and neighborhoods.
Bird activities go on in this unspoiled park. The winding trail through fields, wooded areas, marshlands, and Little Conestoga Creek is perfect for a nature walk.
You will enjoy walking on the leveled paths and watching birds of diverse species. Noel Dorwart Park is open from dawn to dusk.
Address: 408 Parklawn Ct, Lancaster, PA 17601, United States
14. Theodore A. Parker III Natural Area
This nature park is one of the best places to visit in this city. It was named after the late Theodore A Parker III, an internationally renowned ornithologist from this county.
The park, sprawling 100 acres, has everything you need for a walk with nature. Relax by the Stewart Run, which tumbles over waterfalls and rocks to create an untouched stream. Parallel to this stream is a hiking trail and vertical rock walls.
You will also find plants and wildlife if you hike along the wooded areas. The flowers bloom during spring, offering a scenic setting. Spot raccoons, deer, birds, and opossums during your visit.
Theodore A. Parker III Natural Area is a hidden gem for fun lovers. The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful.
Address: 114 Wesley Rd, Quarryville, PA 17566, United States
15. Speedwell Forge County Park
Speedwell Forge County Park is one of the top parks in Lancaster, PA. This undeveloped park, spanning 415 acres, has numerous offerings for nature lovers who want a peaceful oasis for relaxation.
In the park are lovely patches of native flora and fauna. Come April to May to experience the blooming of these wildflowers. It is between the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s Speedwell Forge Lake.
There is also a wooded wetland, cultivated fields, and a wet meadow along Hammer Creek. You will find every species of animal and flower that flourish on wetlands.
This park also has a hiking trail through its scenic woods. Along the Speedwell Forge Road is the parking area. There is also a creek along the trail where you can play or sit around and enjoy the company it offers.
Bird-watching is one of the exciting activities here due to the numerous birds hovering around. If you want to camp, there are cheap sites where you can spend a couple of nights.
So, this is the time to pack your picnic basket and grab your camera or binoculars for some nature day out.
Address: 480 Speedwell Forge Rd, Lititz, PA 17543, United States
Plan Your Trip to Lancaster
If you are a local or visiting Lancaster, you will find many fun places for outdoor activities. The parks in Lancaster, PA, have something for everyone. Check out the options above and add them to your bucket list.