DRUMORE PA – At one of the farthest south of southeastern Pennsylvania’s state parks, the peak eagle watching season doesn’t begin until late summer, according to the state Game Commission. Go anyway in spring, summer or fall, some research suggests. Even without spotting eagles, reviewers claim, visitors will be impressed by the view.
With temperatures Tuesday (March 18, 2025) in the mid-60s, the prospect of a comfortable road trip in bright sunshine beckoned. So Travels With The Post took the hint and set out for Susquehannock State Park at Drumore, 56 miles southwest of Pottstown in Lancaster County.
At one edge of the 224-acre park, roughly 350 feet above the river’s surface, lies the highly recommended Hawk Point Overlook. From it in good weather, visitors can see for a substantial distance upstream and down. The views there are, indeed, dramatic.
Additionally, though, one lesson learned during the day is that the park annually is home to several eagles, most in pairs. They nest within the forested hills on both sides of the Lower Susquehanna River, where the outlook is located. They could be seen Tuesday, circling overhead in the day’s warm air currents.
They are not alone. The eagles are occasionally joined in the skies by turkey vultures, black vultures, and ospreys.
The park is working to attract other species too, by cultivating bird habitats of wildflower meadows and grass lands. A few areas surrounding Hawk Point are cordoned off, and accompanied by signs that warn visitors to avoid wandering onto property intended for feathered friends.
Inside Susquehannock, and at Other Overlooks
Nor is Hawk Point the only destination that receives high marks from those searching for eagles. Pinnacle Overlook, with a different view of the river, is only a 9-mile drive away. Beyond that Urey Overlook, located on a portion of the 200-mile Mason-Dixon Trail System, is only 15 miles more. Each has their own merits, and their own sets of walking trails.
The most extensive setting, however, is at Susquehannock.
Its 11 trails cover more than 5-1/2 walkable miles, and provide two miles for horseback riding on a route with installed hitching posts. The park also offers a second overlook, Wissler. There’s plenty of free parking, restrooms, group tenting, pavilions with picnic tables and grills, playgrounds, and ball fields.
Bring charcoal for the grills, as did a couple seen during the day. They roasted foil-wrapped meals over the flames, and chatted while watching to ensure their dinner wasn’t too well done.
The park also schedules public events and programs.
- The next is planned for April 9 from 6:30-8 p.m., when the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources offers a free virtual tour of the Susquehannock All-Terrain Vehicle Trail System. Members of the state Bureau of Forestry education staff will take you on a ride to show off more than 40 miles of available ATV trails. Advance online registration is required.
- On May 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the department says it will present “a fun-filled” PA Songbirds Educator Workshop that “focuses on teaching environmental science through birds.” Participation in the workshop provides 5-1/2 hours of Act 48 continuing education credit. The cost is $15 per teacher. For more information, send an e-mail to Kelly Ford at kelford@pa.gov, or call 717-252-1134.
- Others are expected to be announced in coming months.
So far, 2025 has been a year during which some parks nationwide face uncertain futures. By contrast, Susquehannock is open daily, seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset (although day use areas close at dusk). Its vistas are beautiful. Possibly best of all, admission is free.
About the Post Road Trips
When Travels With The Post hits the road, readers figuratively come along. Its occasional “road trip” articles are intended to describe and show what’s available at a location of interest, and why it might be worth considering a visit. Find other Post road trips here.
All photos by Travels With The Post
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