
Ralph Stover State Park
Discover breathtaking vistas at High Rocks and explore the serene Tohickon Creek in this scenic Bucks County state park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Ralph Stover State Park
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking vistas at High Rocks and explore the serene Tohickon Creek in this scenic Bucks County state park.
"The views from High Rocks are some of the best in the entire county."

Use AllTrails for Trails
Navigate the park with ease using the AllTrails app for accurate trail maps and information.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Wear good hiking shoes; some trails can be mucky or have steep sections.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

High Rocks Vista
High Rocks Trail
Breathtaking panoramic views of Tohickon Creek and the surrounding valley. A must-see, especially during fall.

Tohickon Creek Access
Along Tohickon Creek
Explore the creek bed, wade in shallow areas, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of flowing water.

WPA Stone Structures
Various locations
Discover remnants of old stone structures built by the WPA, adding a historical touch to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for High Rocks
Trail Navigation & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Use AllTrails for Trails
Navigate the park with ease using the AllTrails app for accurate trail maps and information.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Wear good hiking shoes; some trails can be mucky or have steep sections.
Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for longer hikes.
Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
Use AllTrails for Trails
Navigate the park with ease using the AllTrails app for accurate trail maps and information.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Wear good hiking shoes; some trails can be mucky or have steep sections.
Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for longer hikes.
Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Picnic Spots Available
Enjoy a picnic lunch at designated spots or by the creek.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ralph Stover State Park for its stunning High Rocks Vista, especially during fall, and its peaceful creek access. While some find trail navigation challenging and wish for more marked paths, the park offers a beautiful natural escape with historical WPA structures and opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
"Nice park, lots of trails. Use AllTrails to see them all. Lots of parking at various parts of the park (outside the main entrance, so don't have to follow google directions (again use AllTrails). One bridge inside park, so choose your yrail wisely or you can cross the river at various points, up to knee high high depending on season."
Bill Rizzo
"Great place to walk and picnic, the trails are fairly short, and there is a lot if old stone structures build by the WPA.
Ralph Stover State Park is really nice for haning out by the Tohickon creek, worth the visit."
Russ Frey
"We usually hike the high rocks but my son wanted to go down to Tohickon creek and see it up close. A perfect fall morning with the lot to ourselves except for one person fishing. There is a porta potty and a pavilion with picnic tables. There are picnic tables scattered around the creek as well. We walked under the bridge and up the creek as far as the path will allow. I was surprised that there aren’t better or more hiking trails along the creek. At least none we could find off the lot. My son was anxious to cross the bridge so we took the road uphill past the privacy signs for the residential homes and turned off onto the white trail to get into the woods. It can be mucky around the creek and the white trail has a decent drop off to the one side, I recommend good hiking shoes and water. You can walk the trail for quite some time and the road is uphill until you reach it. We never hike without extra water for us and the dogs, a compass, first aide kit and bear spray. Just saying, best to be prepared and teach your kids now to do it right! It’s because of these hikes my son longs to be in the woods and to see the beauty around Bucks County."
Tara Zeiser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ralph Stover State Park is located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. While Google Maps can guide you, many visitors recommend using the AllTrails app for more precise trail access points and parking information, as some parking areas are outside the main entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at various points within the park. Some visitors note that parking can be found outside the main entrance, so using an app like AllTrails can help you locate these spots.
Yes, the trails at Ralph Stover State Park connect to Tohickon Valley Park, offering opportunities for longer hikes and exploration. The High Rocks Trail is a popular route that extends into Tohickon Valley Park.
To ensure you get a parking spot, especially on weekends or during peak foliage season, it's best to arrive early in the morning. Some visitors suggest looking for parking outside the main entrance if the primary lots are full.
Cell reception can be spotty within Ralph Stover State Park, so it's advisable to download any necessary maps or information beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ralph Stover State Park generally offers free parking and entry, making it an accessible destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
State parks typically open at dawn and close at dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Pennsylvania State Parks website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
No, tickets are not required for entry into Ralph Stover State Park. It's a public park, and access is generally free.
While the park is known for rock climbing, specific permits or regulations might apply. It's best to check with the park office or the Pennsylvania State Parks website for any requirements related to specialized activities.
Yes, Ralph Stover State Park is accessible year-round, though trail conditions may vary with the seasons. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially icy trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The High Rocks Trail is a highlight, offering stunning views. Other trails explore the Tohickon Creek. Using AllTrails can help you discover various routes and their difficulty levels.
The High Rocks Trail is generally rated as moderate. It's an out-and-back trail, approximately 3 miles round trip with about 500 feet of elevation gain, offering a good workout with rewarding views.
While swimming is not explicitly advertised, visitors often wade in the shallower parts of Tohickon Creek. Be cautious of the current and water depth.
Yes, there are restrooms available, including a porta-potty and a pavilion with picnic tables near the creek access.
The park's natural setting supports various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other creatures that inhabit the woodlands and creek areas.
📸 📸 Photography
High Rocks Vista is the prime location for capturing panoramic shots of the valley and Tohickon Creek, especially during sunrise or sunset and fall foliage.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Fall colors are particularly vibrant in the morning and late afternoon light.
Drone usage in state parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's recommended to check the official Pennsylvania State Parks regulations regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive views from High Rocks Vista. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, the WPA stone structures offer unique photographic opportunities, adding a historical and architectural element to your nature shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, it's crucial to emphasize safety. Ensure kids wear appropriate footwear, as some areas can be mucky or uneven. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also recommended, especially for longer explorations. While the park is dog-friendly, always keep pets leashed and supervised around children. The combination of scenic views, creek access, and picnic facilities makes Ralph Stover State Park a great destination for a memorable family day trip.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
It's highly recommended to utilize navigation apps like AllTrails to make the most of the trail system, as some paths can be less clearly marked. Proper footwear is essential, as trails can be mucky near the creek or have uneven terrain. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's woodlands, the creek's ecosystem, and the historical WPA stone structures scattered throughout. Remember to pack ample water and snacks, and be prepared for potentially limited cell service.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the grand vistas, photographers can find unique subjects in the WPA stone structures, which add a historical and textural element to images. Exploring the areas around Tohickon Creek can yield interesting shots of water flow, rock formations, and the surrounding riparian environment. For the best light, aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. Be aware that cell reception can be unreliable, so ensure any necessary apps or information are downloaded beforehand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the High Rocks Trail
Visitors often recommend using the AllTrails app to navigate this trail, as signage can sometimes be limited. While the main path is well-trodden, exploring offshoots or venturing down towards the creek can offer different perspectives. Be prepared for potentially mucky conditions near the water and wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can have steep drop-offs. The accessibility of this trail, being only about 50 miles from Philadelphia, makes it a convenient escape for city dwellers seeking natural beauty.
Beyond the main vista, the High Rocks Trail provides a sense of accomplishment and a deep connection with nature. The sheer scale of the gorge and the winding creek below are truly awe-inspiring. It’s a place where you can feel the vastness of the landscape and appreciate the raw beauty of Pennsylvania's natural heritage. Many visitors find moments of serenity and reflection here, making it more than just a hike, but an experience.
Adventures Along Tohickon Creek
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the park is also known for rock climbing opportunities. The cliffs along the creek provide challenging routes for experienced climbers. Even if climbing isn't your activity, observing the rock formations and the way the creek has carved through the landscape is fascinating. Remember that conditions near the creek can be damp and potentially slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Beyond the physical activities, the creek area is a peaceful spot for picnics. There are picnic tables available, and the natural setting makes for a relaxing meal surrounded by nature. It’s a great place to unwind, listen to the water, and perhaps spot some local wildlife that frequents the creek.
Historical Echoes: WPA Structures
These structures offer a unique photographic subject, blending the man-made with the natural environment. They serve as a reminder of the park's development and the labor that shaped it. While not always explicitly marked on trail maps, keeping an eye out for these stone formations can add an extra dimension to your exploration of the park.
For history buffs and those interested in the heritage of state parks, these WPA remnants provide a tangible connection to the past. They encourage a deeper appreciation for the park's evolution and the stories embedded within its landscape.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit