Greenwood Furnace State Park

Near Greenwood Furnace State Park, there are several excellent dining options. Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails offers a vibrant atmosphere with American cuisine and specialty martinis. Village Tavern is known for its upscale American eats and extensive wine list. For a cozy breakfast or brunch experience, The Wildflower Café is a great choice. Hoss's Steak & Sea House provides a family-friendly environment with surf 'n' turf options. Lastly, Kelly's Korner offers a casual dining experience with a variety of American dishes.

For accommodations near Greenwood Furnace State Park, Comfort Inn offers a modest stay with an indoor pool and free breakfast. Another option is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Huntingdon Route 22/Raystown Lake, which provides a casual atmosphere with a pool and free parking.

Greenwood Furnace State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park features modern shower houses and dressing areas near the beach, along with a snack bar for refreshments. There are also eight reservable picnic pavilions, some offering lake views, and a playground for children. Additionally, the park provides wheelchair-accessible facilities, including picnic tables, campsites, restrooms, and a Nature Center.

For outdoor enthusiasts, non-motorized boat rentals are available for use on the lake. The park's campground includes modern washhouses with hot showers, flush toilets, and laundry facilities, making it a comfortable base for exploring the area.

Greenwood Furnace State Park offers a variety of activities for all seasons. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the sand beach during the warmer months, while ice fishing is permitted in the winter. The park is also popular for hiking, with trails like the Lakeview Trail providing scenic views around Greenwood Lake. Fishing is another favorite pastime, with the lake stocked with trout. Additionally, the park allows limited hunting and offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.

For those interested in history, exploring the remnants of the iron village, including the reconstructed blast furnace, is a must. The park's picnic areas and playground provide spaces for family gatherings and relaxation.

Greenwood Furnace State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. The park includes wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, campsites, restrooms, and a Nature Center. A paved, 0.3-mile trail is available for wheelchair users and strollers, providing easy access to some of the park's scenic areas.

Additionally, the park's beach and swimming area are smoke-free, with designated smoking areas nearby. Overall, the park strives to provide an inclusive environment for visitors of all abilities.

Parking at Greenwood Furnace State Park is generally convenient, with ample spaces available near the beach and other facilities. There are no parking fees, making it accessible for all visitors. The park's layout ensures that parking areas are close to main attractions, allowing easy access to the beach, picnic pavilions, and hiking trails.

The proximity of parking to the beach and other amenities makes it ideal for families and those with mobility concerns. Additionally, the park's free parking policy adds to its appeal as a budget-friendly destination.

Greenwood Furnace State Park has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it was a thriving iron-making center. The park's name comes from the Greenwood Iron Works, which operated from 1834 to 1904. The area became a ghost town after the iron industry declined but was later transformed into a state park in 1925.

Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this industrial past, including a reconstructed blast furnace. The park's natural beauty, combined with its historical significance, makes it a unique destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Greenwood Furnace State Park is surrounded by attractions that complement its natural and historical offerings. The nearby Rothrock State Forest provides extensive opportunities for hiking and exploring. Visitors can also explore the historic iron village within the park, which includes a reconstructed blast furnace and other historical buildings.

For those interested in broader regional attractions, the park is close to cities like Huntingdon and Mount Union, offering additional dining and shopping options. Nearby, Lake Raystown offers boating and fishing opportunities, while Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks provide a unique geological experience.