With 2+ million acres of public land – natural resources are the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds lifestyle and economy.
Here – conservation is not just a buzzword.
Stewardship of the natural environment is our way of life.
Keeping it Wild!
Why do we love and want to steward the Wilds? Because it’s our home.
The natural world is our refuge from the human-built environment. Yet in the process of making the Wilds more convenient and comfortable to access and enjoy, we carry that human-built world right along with us. Every new campground, inn, winery, restaurant, shop, scenic overlook, fishing access or private cabin has a footprint and an impact. How do we make sure our activities come with the lowest possible damage to our treasured region?
Celebrating Our Conservation Legacy:
The Pennsylvania Wilds is a special place in America with 50 state game lands, 29 state parks, 8 state and national forests, and 16,000 miles of streams and rivers. It’s a lot to take care of, and throughout history, it hasn’t always been easy. It has been our spirit of stewardship and conservation that has made the Pennsylvania Wilds home to 70% of our state’s finest headwaters, a $1.87 billion tourism industry, and to many people and industries who are able to make their living from the woods. Join us.
Be a Steward
Practice Leave No Trace
Whether you’re new to the region or a lifelong resident, the region’s remoteness can be both awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Plan ahead and consider the 7 principles of Leave No Trace so you have a positive experience while ensuring that others can do the same.
Learn MoreFind Volunteer Opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact in the PA Wilds.
Learn More
Watch “The Quiet Ones: PA Wilds, DCNR & Tataboline Enos – Life Above Route 80”
a video introduction to our vast natural resources and conservation in action
CELEBRATING STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION:
The PA Wilds “Quiet Ones” video was produced with our partner, West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund (WPPSEF), a nonprofit organization that was founded to promote the deployment of sustainable energy technologies that benefit West Penn Power ratepayers in Pennsylvania. Learn More about WPPSEF and apply for funding for your clean energy project.
Stewardship Partners
In an unprecedented effort, dozens of federal, state and local stakeholders from the public and private sectors have rallied around this cause. Together, they are marrying conservation and economic development through sustainable nature tourism on the region’s large rural landscape. The effort is creating jobs, diversifying local economies, inspiring stewardship and improving quality of life.
