Cook Forest - Cooksburg, PA - The Black Forest and Clarion River

Cook Forest is one of Pennsylvania's state parks. It is located in northwestern Pennsylvania and includes 6,668 acres of land. The park spreads into three different counties: Forest, Clarion, and Jefferson. Located less than 15 miles northeast of the city of Clarion, Cook Forest is bordered by the Clarion River. Cook Forest is listed as a National Natural Landmark. Known for its hemlock timber strands and virgin white pine, the forest is often called the "Black Forest'' because of the extensive coverage of evergreen trees found there.

The park is open year round and includes an extensive trail system. The 140-mile Baker Trail, which runs from Freeport to the Allegheny National Forest, passes through Cook Forest and is ideal for hiking. The North County National Scenic Trail also passes through the forest. Biking on hiking trails is not permitted on hiking trails. The only exception to this is the part of the Heffern Run Trail that is considered to be part of the Bicycle Route. The Bicycle Route follows park roads that are lightly traveled. Considered to be moderately difficult, the Bicycle Route includes rolling hills and long flat stretches. For horseback riding, Cook Forest has two bridle trails. Portions of Brown's Run Trail also allow horseback riding. Trail maps and descriptions of the Bicycle Route and the trails are available at the park's office.

Visitors have the option of swimming in the park's swimming pool. Unless otherwise posted, the swimming pool is open daily from 11:00am to 6:30pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. The swimming area includes a large pool with an adjacent circular wading pool for children. In addition, there is a shower house with changing areas, rinse showers, restrooms, and a first aid station. A snack area is also available, and it includes shaded tables and chairs as well as vending machines. Swimming is also permitted in the Clarion River at several different points along River Road.

The Clarion River provides visitors with the opportunity to fish for warm water game fish, trout, and panfish. Cook Forest is also home to a fishing pond that is stocked with trout. The pond can be used by children (ages 12 and under) and handicapped individuals. In addition, roughly 2.5 miles of Tom's Run is stocked with trout. Canoeing is permitted on the Clarion River, and the park has a canoe launch along River Road. The canoe launch and parking area are located approximately 3 miles upstream from Cooksburg.

Hunting and trapping is permitted in the park during established seasons. The park has over 4,000 acres that allow trapping, hunting, and dog training. Deer, turkey, quail, squirrel, and crow are some of the common game species found in the area.

There are two picnic pavilions at Cook Forest. Pavilion rental is available if reservations are made in advance. Pavilions that are not reserved are available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. Cook Forest is home to a family campground called Ridge Camp. Ridge Camp has 226 tent and trailer sites.

Cook Forest is home to a fire tower that was built in 1929. The fire tower is over 80 feet tall and was originally used to spot forest fires. While the fire tower is no longer in use, visitors are still able to climb its stairs, and the top spotting area is opened by a guide on rare occasions to allow visitors to have a closer look at the tower and the surrounding area.

Additional information about Cook Forest can be obtained by calling 814-744-8407 or 888-727-2757.