The Friends of Ridley Creek State Park

As Pennsylvanians flock to our great state parks and forests for peace of mind during the pandemic, politicians in the state capitol are threatening to slash funding for these important public lands. This could halt much-needed repair and maintenance that’s needed due to increased use during the pandemic, and cuts to staffing in our state parks and forests. Our state parks and forests are the Keystone State’s most special places. They need to be protected and preserved, not threatened by funding cuts and attacks. If you enjoy our state parks, please let your voice be known to your representatives!

Each year, Ridley Creek State Park holds 2 regulated shotgun hunts to manage the overpopulation of deer within Ridley Creek State Park. For the safety of everyone, the park is completely shutdown except for those hunters with valid permits on those days. This year, the hunts are on 12/3 and 12/10/2020. Any questions should be directed to the Park Manager, Lexi Rose, at 610.892.3900

Our state parks have supported many of us during this unprecedented year of crisis and anxiety. Ridley Creek and other parks have experienced greater than average use this year, which is a good thing. We are grateful for all of our official Friends members and volunteers who help with projects that enhance your experience at the park. If you are able, please consider supporting PA Parks and Forests, which helps bridge the gap between state funding and the needs of the park. If you would like your donation to directly benefit the Ridley Creek State Park, checks should be payable to: PPFF- Friends of RCSP. You can also donate through the Friends website. Stay healthy.

There have been questions about the removal of trees in the park recently. As a result of a tornado in October 2019, the park is having damaged trees removed which will cause trail and area closures on the Bridle Trail and surrounding areas. The timber sale is in progress on the north side of the Park, above Gradyville Road. There are signs stating the areas of the trail/park that are closed due to the timber sales. Please see photo for trail closures. Please note this is not a Friends project and is being posted as a courtesy to concerned Friends. Any questions should be directed to the Park Manager, Lexi Rose, 610-892-3900.

Seems obvious but worth sharing.

A cell phone was found and turned in to the park office. If you lost a phone, give the office a call. 610-892-3900A cell phone was found and turned in to the park office. If you lost a phone, give the office a call. 610-892-3900

Have you been coming to the park during the pandemic to get out in nature, walk your dog, exercise, and/or ?? Let’s hear from you about what it has meant to be able to come to Ridley during these months. Consider sharing your experiences or an anecdote about your excursion(s) here so we can share in our next newsletter. Send it to [email protected] by Monday, August 24. Thank you! Inspiration and photo credit: Jim Bair's "Fisherman." 2018 photo contest.