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Susquehanna Riverlands: 1,200 Free Acres for Hiking, Birding, Paddling Near Berwick
The Susquehanna Riverlands park and nearby outfitters offer hiking, birding, paddling and camping without leaving the region.
How we reported this
Berwick residents looking for a quick outdoor escape don’t need to travel far. The Susquehanna Riverlands, a 1,200-acre public park just off Route 11 at 634 Salem Blvd., offers free year-round access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing and scenic river views along the historic North Branch Canal, according to the park’s website. The grounds open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk.
The timing is good for anyone feeling cooped up after a long work week. With summer temperatures settling in and no admission fee to worry about, the park provides a low-cost option for families, solo hikers and birdwatchers alike. The Susquehanna Riverlands is also designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society and listed on the Pennsylvania Birding and Wildlife Trail, meaning it’s a prime spot for spotting some of the 230-plus bird species recorded in the area.
Paddling and camping on a private island
For those who want to extend the adventure, Susquehanna Outdoor Adventures in nearby Bloomsburg, Pa., operates a private island in the Susquehanna River with 10 miles of hiking trails, tent camping, cabins and kayak rentals for paddling trips, according to the company’s listing. That makes it possible to spend a full weekend on the water without booking a distant vacation.
The broader Susquehanna River Valley region surrounding Berwick offers year-round activities including hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, birdwatching and winter recreation like snowshoeing and ice fishing, according to regional tourism materials. So even as the seasons change, there’s always something to do outside.
What to know before you go
No reservations or passes are required for the Susquehanna Riverlands. The park is free and open daily from 8 a.m. until dusk. Visitors can follow self-guided nature trails along the North Branch Canal, bring binoculars for birding, or simply enjoy the river views. For a more structured trip, Susquehanna Outdoor Adventures in Bloomsburg offers kayak rentals and camping on its private island, best to call ahead for availability and rates, as the company’s website notes seasonal operations.
Whether you’re after a short afternoon hike or a full weekend of paddling and camping, the outdoor options near Berwick are within a 15- to 20-minute drive. No plane ticket required.