Hidden away in the northwestern region of Luzerne County is one of our areas most picturesque state parks. Concealed among the verdant hills and rolling mountains in Wyoming, and just ten miles from Wilkes-Barre, this secluded gem is filled with the most magnificent natural beauty.

Frances Slocum State Park, named for the local girl taken captive by American Indians in 1774, spans out over 1,035-acres. It includes the iconic 165-acre man-made, horse-shoe shaped lake. Lush green fields, woodlands, forests, marshes and wetlands await your visit. Explore across 14 miles of peaceful hiking trails or take in the park’s splendor by kayak or boat.

Grab a park map and discover for yourself why this NEPA favorite is one of Pennsylvania’s best nature parks. Here’s a highlight of things to see and do during your visit.

Hiking and Mountain Biking

One of the best ways to explore the park is through its almost 14 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park features 11 trails ranging from 0.3-mile trails to 3.9-mile loops, with five miles designated for mountain biking. So, whether you’re looking to break a sweat or take in the scenery, there’s a trail for you. No matter the terrain, you’ll pass by some of the most picturesque landscapes along the way. Fields of wild grass and flowers, scenic lakeshores, lush forests and sweeping mountain views are everywhere.

At only 0.5 miles, the out-and-back Bluebird Trail is an easy hike that passes through fields and mixed forests in the northern portion of the park. Or, explore the infamous rock shelter where Frances Slocum took refuge on the first night of her captivity along the Frances Slocum Trail. The 0.7-mile trek begins and ends at the boat rental parking lot.

For more of a challenging hike with a view, the Deer Trail has three loops of varying lengths – 1.3 miles, 2.5 miles, or 3.9 miles. The trail starts at the Environmental Education Center. It passes through diverse habitats including lakeshore, thicket, mixed forest, hardwood forest and across concrete stepping stones in the marsh. The stepping stones are an Instagrammable moment for sure. And you’ll find plenty of peace and solitude during the quitter times of day.

Frances Slocum Lake & Swimming Pool

The focal point of the park is the beautiful 165-acre Frances Slocum Lake. It can be viewed from nearly every section of the park. Surrounded by lush forests and wide-open campgrounds, the size and beauty of the lake make boating, fishing and kayaking popular activities. The lake offers two boat launches, two mooring areas, and a fishing pier. Rowboats, paddleboats, kayaks and canoes are available for rent, should you need it. Only electric or non-powered boats are permitted.

The ADA accessible swimming pool is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. There is a fee to utilize the pool. And a seasonal snack bar sells snacks, quick service foods and beverages.

For the nature lover, the lake, vernal pools, wetlands, and forests make it a home to many species of birds, fish and wildlife. From animals like white-talked deer and painted turtles, to birds like great blue heron, Baltimore orioles and yellow warblers (and the occasional bald eagle), plus a lake stocked with catfish, bass and trout, there is plenty here to capture your attention.

Visit For a Day or Plan to Stay

With ample park benches scattered throughout the park, Frances Slocum is a tranquil spot for an unhurried day of wildlife and birdwatching. And while it’s a wonderful place to take a day trip, the park is a favored destination for those who love to camp. The campgrounds are within close proximity to the lake and boat launch, but are tucked away in the forest on the far side of the lake.

Open from mid-April through late-October, the park offers 100 sites for RVs, trailers and tent camping. Each site contains a picnic table and fire ring while the larger sites have electric hook-ups. There is a modern bathhouse with showers, flushable toilets, drinking water and boat launch access. There’s also a large group tenting area that accommodates 40 tents.

On a nice day, there’s nothing better than a picnic in the park. There are plenty of open spaces, picnic tables and covered pavilions to spread out with family and friends. The picnic sites have tables and charcoal grills with water fountains and restrooms in the surrounding areas. Picnic spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis except for three pavilions which can be reserved in advance for a fee.

Plan a Visit

Frances Slocum State Park is easily accessible from Interstate 81 and is close to Wilkes-Barre, Tunkhannock and Scranton. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) also provides bus service to the park seasonally from June through September. Thanks to its close proximity to NEPA’s biggest cities, it’s super convenient to visit the park and the nearby family-friendly attractions. The Lands at Hillside Farms farm-fresh ice cream and Brace’s Orchard fresh-pressed apple cider and donuts are all within a few miles of the park.