Camp Hill, PA –The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF), the only non-profit whose mission is Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests will host a gathering of state park foundations from across the country to discuss current trends and challenges faced by state parks and outdoor recreation, as well as share ideas and resources. The meeting will begin October 17, 2017.
The group, meeting at the new Allenberry Resort, will also spend time in Kings Gap State Park, Pine Grove Furnace State Park, the Michaux State Forest and on the Appalachian Trail. Evening events will include “A Taste of Pennsylvania,” featuring Pennsylvania cuisine and locally crafted wine and beer. Daily workshops round out the agenda.
“We look forward to showcasing not just Pennsylvania, but our incredible park and forest system and the staff and volunteers that make it amazing, to this national group,” said Marci Mowery, President of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation. “The partnerships that are being formed will help to fulfill needs of state parks and forests across the country.”
PPFF worked with the Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC) to locate housing and meeting space for the gathering, as well as business partnerships to support the conference including the “A Taste of Pennsylvania” event.
“We are so happy to welcome the Parks & Forests Foundation Annual Gathering to Cumberland Valley and have attendees from across the country visit the area,” said Dawn Rickenbach, CAEDC Tourism Development Manager. “With events being held at several locations, including the Ironmaster’s Mansion and Kings Gap, we are delighted that this group will have a chance to experience our outdoor venues and explore our recreational opportunities.”

About the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
Founded in 1999, the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation supports 121 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest by coordinating volunteers, activities and donations through its 40 chapters. The mission of the foundation is to inspire stewardship of Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests through public engagement in volunteerism, recreation and conservation. paparksandforests.org @PaPFF