Copyright: Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks
Ridley Creek State Park
|
Description - Within the park boundaries is a small 18th century village that grew up around the site of a mill. Now known as Sycamore Mills, the area had been previously named Bishop's Mill and Providence Mill. The miller's house, the office and library and several small mill workers' dwellings are still in existence as private residences. The park area has been designated as the "Ridley Creek Historic District" on the National Register of Historic Places.Trails are the main attraction at Ridley Creek State Park. Several of the trails are offered as multi-use trails for mountain bikers and hikers. They are also used for cross-country skiing during the winter. A 4.7 mile equestrian trail, available at area #8, provides stables and horse trailer parking. The stable / concession even offers horses rental, riding lessons, pony rides and an assortment of horse related services. The park offers environmental and historical programs. Picnicking and playgrounds, some of which are handicapped accessible, are offered at the park.
Attractions
- Within the park boundaries is a small 18th century village which grew up around the site of a mill. Now known as Sycamore Mills, the area had been previously named Bishop's Mill and Providence Mill. The miller's house, the office and library and several small mill workers' dwellings are still in existence as private residences. The park area has been designated as the "Ridley Creek Historic District" on the National Register of Historic Places. The park office is located in the "Hunting Hill'' mansion, built by the Jeffords family in 1914. The mansion was built around a 1789 Pennsylvania stone farmhouse that forms the core of the building and serves as the reception center.
Recreation - Park visitors may enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities throughout the year. Public use areas are open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Trails are the main attraction at Ridley Creek State Park. Several of the trails are offered as multi-use trails for mountain bikers and hikers. They are also used for cross-country skiing during the winter. A 4.7-mile equestrian trail, available at area #8, provides stables and horse trailer parking. The stable / concession even offers horses rental, riding lessons, pony rides and an assortment of horse related services. The park hosts an environmental interpretive and historical programs for the general public which focus on the resources of the park. Park staff also do field learning experiences for students, youth groups, teachers and local businesses to make the community aware of environmental issues which will affect the quality of life in the Delaware Valley. Picnicking and playgrounds, some of which are handicapped accessible, are offered at the park. Climate - Pennsylvania generally has a moist climate with cold winters and warm summers. The Ridley Creek State Park area has cold winter months with temperatures averaging above 28 degrees Fahrenheit (above -2 degrees Celsius). The area's average summer temperatures range above 74 degrees Fahrenheit (23 Celsius). Location -
Ridley Creek State Park is located in the lower southeastern tip of Pennsylvania. One park entrance is located on PA Route 3 which is 2.5 miles west of Newtown Square. The park may also be entered from Gradyville Road east from PA Route 352 or west from PA Route 252.
|
Add your own trip Report!