Inside Pennsylvania’s State Parks: A Conversation with John Hallas

Pennsylvania is home to one of the most accessible state park systems in the nation. With 124 parks—and a 125th on the way—the state offers free admission and parking, a rarity in the U.S. This isn’t just policy; it’s principle. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with the Director of the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks, John Hallas, who states, these parks are ‘democratizing spaces,’ open to all, regardless of income or background.

Each park reflects the state’s natural and cultural diversity, from the historic battlegrounds of Valley Forge to the quiet trails of Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or exploring Revolutionary War sites, the experience is intentionally broad. It’s about meeting people where they are—physically, emotionally, and recreationally.

During the pandemic, visitation to state parks jumped 27%, highlighting just how vital these spaces are for public health and well-being. Even as life returns to normal, use remains high. The state is responding with forward-thinking projects like expanded trail access, diverse overnight options including yurts and “great gathering” family sites, and the development of its first underground park, Laurel Caverns.

These efforts are guided by the Penn’s Parks for All plan, a strategic blueprint focused on accessibility, infrastructure, and conservation. The state is also reinvesting in its aging facilities—many built during the Civilian Conservation Corps era—while adapting to modern recreation trends like e-bikes and paddleboards.

Ultimately, Pennsylvania’s parks aren’t just green space. They’re public assets with cultural, economic, and environmental value. And in an era where so much comes at a cost, they remain free—on purpose.

Key Topics:

• Defining “Conservation Area” (00:00)
• Why It’s Important to Have a Diversity of State Parks (04:04)
• Historic Sites in Pennsylvania’s State Parks (07:00)
• Why Free Admission to State Parks is a Right (11:24)
• About the Upcoming Underground State Park (14:44)
• Keeping Trails Well-Maintained (20:15)
• About the Penn’s Parks for All Plan (25:17)

Resources:

• Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks
• Penn’s Parks for All
• Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests Reservations