250 Years of Freedom to Explore: Expanding Access for All
As the nation marks 250 years of independence, Pennsylvania has the opportunity to highlight the natural resources that have shaped our identity. Yet increasing use, aging infrastructure, and unequal access require renewed investment. Communities across Pennsylvania seek inclusive, healthy outdoor experiences, and our public lands offer them—if we steward and support them.
PPFF will lead a year-long statewide campaign celebrating Pennsylvania’s parks and forests while advancing stewardship, inclusive recreation, and public investment. Check in here frequently as the messages (and fun) expand)
The Parks & Forests Thru the Seasons photo contest in 2026 is themed to the anniversary. Review the categories and rules and submit your photos.
Be Among the 250 Stories
Our goal is to assemble 250 Voices of the Outdoors, Pennsylvanians sharing their memories and anecdotes about their relationship with a special place and time and volunteers who take their love of the parks and forests so to heart that they devote time, talent, and treasure to their conservation and enhancement. Would you like to be a part? Complete one of our Google forms.
