Elizabeth Woods
45 acres of wild woodland situated on the steep slopes of Blue Mountain in Lower Paxton Township. Donated by the Champagne family, this rugged wilderness has been preserved in its natural state for decades and offers hikers a chance to summit the rocky slopes where the historic Darlington Trail once traversed the ridge. Access is via the parking area on Blue Mountain Parkway. From Linglestown, take Blue Mountain Parkway north for 1.9 miles. Just after Eshenaur Rd., look for the Manada Conservancy sign on the right.
Cladel Preserve
10 acres of rolling, semi-shady meadows with a wetland, this small, beautifully preserved land is an ideal place for a stroll with binoculars and a bird book. Butterflies abound in the wildflower meadows, with over 40 species identified over the years by the donors, for whom the preserve is named. In 2022, a local Girl Scout created a meditation guide for use at this preserve; a copy of the guide with QR code is posted inside the kiosk, and paper copies are available there (weather permitting) to use on your walk. Access is via the parking area across from 412 S. Meadow Lane, just east of Sand Beach Rd in East Hanover Township.
Clawson-Van DeHei Preserve
6.5 acres of riparian buffer along the Swatara Creek offers a wooded network of trails ideal for a nature walk or a quiet afternoon watching the creek flow by from a shady bench. Access to this preserve is currently unavailable. We are working toward a permanent solution. In the meantime, join us on a virtual tour of the Clawson-VanDeHei Preserve! Simply CLICK HERE for a map of preserve features and fun facts to learn along the way.
Iron Mine Run Fishing Area
Located 100 yards south of the junction of Swatara Creek Road and Iron Mine Road just outside Middletown, this roadside access point to the Swatara Creek is a popular daytime fishing spot. Park in the gravel pull-off area and walk the shoreline in search of the perfect spot to cast from.