Elk State Park and Elk State Forest   offers 3,192-acres of some of the most rugged mountains of northern Pennsylvania and is located adjacent to the East Branch Lake. The lake and nearby streams are stocked with warm-water and cold-water fish.The area provides excellent hunting and DMAP opportunities as well as several DCNR snowmobile trails.

This is one of eight state forests located in the Pennsylvania Wilds region and features the Elk Country Visitor Center and a portion of the Elk Scenic Drive.

Elk State Forest Public Use Map (PDF)

Initial development of the Elk State Park in 1961 included roads, latrines, and a boat launching ramp and access to the East Branch Lake. There are no overnight or camping facilities at either Elk or Bendigo State Parks. However, at one time, the Elk State Park did have a 75-site campground; complete with flush toilet restrooms and hot/cold bathing facilities. The campground was constructed in 1975 and only lasted a few years. It later was dismantled due to concerns of the available drinking water quality in the area. (much of the area was undermined or stripped for coal.) The remains of the old campground can be still explored along Instanter Road.

The 3,192-acre Elk State Park is in the rugged mountains of northern Pennsylvania. The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake is large enough for unlimited horsepower boating and is great for waterskiing. The lake and nearby streams are stocked with warm-water and cold-water fish.