Franklin: Discover Parks, Trails and History

In Franklin County, there’s plenty to explore, from forests and hiking trails to museums and historic sites. You can shape your trip around nature, outdoor activities or local history. The state parks each have a different focus: some offer guided activities and hands-on programs, while others pair scenic landscapes with a specific historical connection.

Parks, Forests and Hiking Trails

The 1,125-acre Caledonia State Park is located in Adams and Franklin Counties. From Chambersburg, take US 30 east; the park is 11 miles away. The park offers guided outdoor activities, hands-on programs, environmental education and special events for all ages. In summer, tours are offered at the Thaddeus Steven Blacksmith Shop. Visitors may occasionally see a guest blacksmith at work there.

Mont Alto State Park is the oldest park still in Pennsylvania’s state park system. Visitors can picnic and fish for trout there. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset; day-use areas close at dusk. Keep these hours in mind when planning your visit.

The South Mountain area of Michaux State Forest covers more than 85,500 acres. The Appalachian Trail runs through the forest for 37 miles. This section is for hiking only and is marked with white blazes. Another option is the 1.45-mile Lakeside Trail at Cowans Gap State Park, which loops around Cowans Gap Lake. Hiking and biking are permitted, and cross-country skiing is recommended.

The Tuscarora Trail also passes through Cowans Gap State Park. Its section along Tuscarora Mountain passes several overlooks, unusual rock outcrops and fields. Along the way, the landscape itself is a highlight, in addition to the designated trails.

Historic Sites and Museums

Buchanan's Birthplace State Park preserves the birthplace of James Buchanan. A stone pyramid monument stands at the site of the original cabin. The park is also home to Buck Run, a stream with a native brook trout population. Monterey Pass Battlefield Park is located in Washington Township in Franklin County. This 125-acre natural, cultural and historical park preserves a small part of Pennsylvania’s second-largest Civil War battle. The Monterey Pass Battlefield Museum houses artifacts and additional information about the battle and the Confederate retreat.

In Chambersburg, the Old Jail tells the story of the jail through a tour and historical artifacts from Franklin County. The building was built in 1818 and survived the Confederate burning of the town in 1864. The John Brown House is designated an authentic site on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom; tours are available by appointment only. If you plan to visit, make an appointment in advance.

Renfrew Museum and Park preserves historic Pennsylvania German farmhouses. Farmhouse tours are offered from mid-April to mid-October, Wednesday through Saturday, at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. The Conococheague Institute is based at Rock Hill Farm in southern Franklin County. This well-preserved historic farmstead was established in the early 18th century. Historic Fort Loudoun in Franklin County dates to a different era: it was built in 1756 during the French and Indian War. Offerings include school tours with living historians, as well as museum and fort tours.

At the Heritage Center in Chambersburg, you can explore exhibits on your own. They cover five historically significant topics from Chambersburg and Franklin County. Guided walking tours are available by appointment, and there’s also an activity room for children. The offerings vary: you can explore independently, join a scheduled tour or arrange a visit by appointment.

More Travel Ideas

The Franklin County Pour Trail connects places serving locally brewed beer, locally produced wine and locally made spirits. It adds regional drinks to the area’s nature and history offerings. When choosing a hotel, consider which of these interests will shape your trip; the activities and historic sites described here offer different reasons to explore Franklin.

Discover More Destinations

Chambersburg, Rouzerville, Shady Grove, Union County, Fulton County, Elk County, Potter County, Lancaster

For the broader travel overview: Pennsylvania.