Boulder Field
Explore a vast, otherworldly 16-acre expanse of ancient boulders, a National Natural Landmark formed by glacial forces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Boulder Field
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast, otherworldly 16-acre expanse of ancient boulders, a National Natural Landmark formed by glacial forces.
"It's peaceful yet otherworldly, a quiet reminder of the Earth's ancient story."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking boots; the boulders are uneven and can shift.
🚶♀️ Walking Stick for Balance
A sturdy stick found nearby can help with stability on the rocks.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 1,327 reviews
Type
State Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vast Boulder Expanse
Hickory Run State Park
An ocean of rocks stretching endlessly, a silent, still, and strangely beautiful natural wonder.
Geological History
Hickory Run State Park
Explore a 16-acre field formed over 12,000 years ago by glacial activity.
Ringing Rocks
Ringing Rocks County Park
Strike the boulders with a hammer to hear them ring like bells – a truly unique auditory experience!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Boulders Safely
Timing is Key for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking boots; the boulders are uneven and can shift.
🚶♀️ Walking Stick for Balance
A sturdy stick found nearby can help with stability on the rocks.
🐻 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of snakes and bears; they inhabit the area. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
This otherworldly landscape is perfect for unique and memorable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking boots; the boulders are uneven and can shift.
🚶♀️ Walking Stick for Balance
A sturdy stick found nearby can help with stability on the rocks.
🐻 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of snakes and bears; they inhabit the area. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
This otherworldly landscape is perfect for unique and memorable photos.
🔨 Ringing Rocks Fun
Bring a hammer to Ringing Rocks County Park for a musical experience! 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the unique, otherworldly beauty of the Boulder Field, describing it as a vast, silent ocean of rocks. Many appreciate its accessibility and the opportunity for stunning photography. However, some caution about the challenging terrain and the presence of wildlife.
"We visited Hickory Run Boulder Field yesterday and were amazed by how unique it is. Imagine an ocean of rocks stretching endlessly — silent, still, and strangely beautiful. Most of us really enjoyed it; it’s peaceful yet otherworldly. Great spot for photos, too!
History: The Boulder Field was formed during the last Ice Age, over 12,000 years ago. As glaciers advanced and retreated, they cracked the sandstone on nearby ridges and carried the rocks downhill. The result is this massive 16-acre natural field — up to 12 feet deep — preserved exactly as nature left it. It’s been a National Natural Landmark since 1967.
If you’re in the Poconos, this is a must-see stop — a quiet reminder of the Earth’s ancient story."
Anwar M Hossain
"This place feels other worldly. We were able to drive right up to the boulder field parking lot, no hiking required. The drive in is 3-4 miles on a well graded dirt road passable by any vehicle. It is a one way loop for most of the way. We only ventured a few feet into the boulders. The footing is not great and the boulders move. A few adventurous souls walked all the way across the field. This is definitely worth a visit. No fee to enter this park"
hikemaine1
"Visited in June of this year on a Sunday. My friend and I were pretty much the only ones there, and crossed the boulder field, soaking up its beauty when this black bear popped out of the woods and walked his way the whole way across the field. Was an amazing experience. The bear didn't threaten us or seem to mind we were there. 10/10"
Dan Nemanic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boulder Field is accessible via a 3-4 mile well-graded dirt road loop within Hickory Run State Park, passable by most vehicles. There's a dedicated parking lot near the field.
No, there is no fee to enter Hickory Run State Park or to access the Boulder Field.
Ringing Rocks County Park is located in Bucks County, PA. Specific directions can be found on local park websites or mapping services.
Yes, you can drive to the parking lot adjacent to the Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park.
The parking lot offers immediate access to the edge of the field, making it easy to get stunning photos without extensive hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required. Access to Hickory Run State Park and its Boulder Field is free.
Hickory Run State Park is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's best to check the official park website for any specific seasonal hours.
Visiting on a weekday morning or during the off-season will offer a more solitary experience.
The main restriction is to be mindful of the natural environment and wildlife. Stick to marked paths where possible and be aware of your surroundings. +1
While the park is generally open from dawn to dusk, overnight stays are typically restricted to designated camping areas. Check park regulations for specifics.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique landscape, take photos, and learn about its geological history. At Ringing Rocks County Park, you can strike the rocks to hear them ring.
It can be challenging due to the uneven and shifting surfaces. Sturdy footwear and caution are advised.
While the field itself is an open expanse, there are paths leading to and from the parking area. Some visitors mention a 'Ringing Rocks Loop Trail'.
Visitors have reported seeing black bears and snakes. It's important to maintain a safe distance and not disturb the animals. +1
Children can explore the field, but adult supervision is crucial due to the uneven terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire expanse offers unique photographic opportunities. The edges of the field provide good vantage points for capturing the scale.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the rocks.
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. Check the specific rules for Hickory Run State Park or Ringing Rocks County Park before flying.
The unique 'ringing' sound of the rocks when struck with a hammer offers a fun and unusual photographic subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit