Warriors Path State Park

c/o Trough Creek
James Creek, PA 16657-9302
814-658-3847

The 349-acre Warriors Path State Park lies very near the famous path used by the Iroquois in raids and wars with the Cherokees and other American Indians in southern Pennsylvania.

The park is a seasonal day use area open from mid-April through the end of October. At other times of the year, visitors must park near the main gate and walk into the park.

This finger of land is bounded on three sides by the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, which empties into Raystown Lake approximately one mile downstream. The unique shape of the park was formed as a result of river meandering. This section of the river exhibits some of the best examples of natural stream meandering in the state.

The park is in Liberty Township, Bedford County, about two miles south of the Borough of Saxton on Warriors Path Park Road.

Recreational Opportunities

Boating:
A boat ramp for canoes, rafts and small boats is available as a take out or launch site for floating the river. Boating or rafting can be enjoyed during the spring or late fall. The water level of the river is usually too shallow for summer boating.

Fishing:
The Raystown Branch of the Juniata River provides excellent fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass, rock bass, muskellunge, walleye, catfish, eel, carp and sucker. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission laws apply.

Picnicking:
Numerous picnic tables lie throughout the park. There are two, reservable picnic pavilions, with nearby restrooms. Pavilion # 2 and its adjacent restroom are accessible. Call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS for reservations.

Hiking: 3 miles of trails
The trails traverse through woods and field areas with the degree of difficulty ranging from easy to moderate. Please wear fluorescent orange when hiking during hunting seasons.

Wildlife Watching

Several unique habitats exist as a result of the river carving it’s way through the land. A fresh water swamp follows the long axis of the park adjacent to the river bottomland. Also, across the river from the swamp is an excellent example of weathered shale cliffs with unique trees, plants, and animals associated with this environment.

River otter have been released at various sites along the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, near the park. Ruffed Grouse nest in brushy areas and turkey frequent old fields. A fresh water swamp is great habitat for nesting wood duck and mallard. Fence lizards are often seen along the abandoned railroad corridor near the park gate.

History

The 349-acre Warriors Path State Park lies very near the famous path used by the Iroquois in raids and wars with the Cherokees and other American Indians in southern Pennsylvania. Various tracts of land for the park were donated beginning in 1959. The park was dedicated in the summer of 1965.