Clarion River at Cook Forest, as seen from River Trail (Photo by Andrew)

Although Cook Forest is definitely one of the better-known recreation areas in western Pennsylvania, it’s always good to remember those sorts of places and then actually make the effort to visit them; it’s too easy to take institutions for granted…

Crooked Creek, as seen from the Shrub Swamp Trail (Photo by Andrew)

A recreation area headed up by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers might not seem to demand a particularly high spot in one’s personal pantheon of places to picnic, walk, or swim. However, Crooked Creek, located a few minutes south…

Lake at Keystone State Park (Photo by Andrew)

Keystone State Park, located northeast of Greensburg, can admittedly be a minor hassle to get through for Pittsburgh residents (can we all agree that Rt. 22 is a pain? Thank you.). However, if you’re willing to make the drive, it’s…