The Susquehanna River lies at the heart of the region’s past and present.

This waterway was once home to the largest Native American settlement east of the Mississippi River, and it also played a significant role in the events leading up to the Battle of Gettysburg in nearby Adams County.

With its numerous geological features, the Susquehanna is a stopover for migrating waterfowl and provides a recreational backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boating, kayaking, hiking and fishing.

Come explore this jewel of South Central Pennsylvania.

Shank’s Mare Outfitter is an 1890s-era general store located on the York County banks of the Susquehanna near Wrightsville. The unique site outfits outdoor enthusiasts and provides lessons, tours and trips designed for those who want to embrace nature.

One such tour that Shank’s Mare can assist with is the 53-mile Susquehanna River Water Trail, between Harrisburg and the Mason-Dixon Line, which features exceptional canoeing and kayaking experiences, as well as 21 interpretive exhibit panels highlighting natural, cultural and historic events and resources.

Before the establishment of the railroad, goods were transported on canals along the shores of the Susquehanna River. Lock 12 Historic Area in southeast York County is one of the best-preserved locks of the old Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal, a waterway system built between 1836 and 1839.

Lancaster County     York County
Susquehanna River
Meals available*      Shopping
*Call in advance to set up eating arrangements for your group.

The Holtwood Environmental Preserve provides lakeside recreational opportunities and facilities for hiking, picnicking, sightseeing and an environmental center, all located on more than 5,000 acres on both shores of the lower Susquehanna River in Lancaster and York counties.

The historic communities of Columbia, Marietta and Wrightsville comprise River Towns, a triumvirate of towns with heritage sites, events and natural scenery that were shaped by time and the mighty Susquehanna River.

River Ride is a fifty-two mile round-trip, heritage bicycle tour currently in development. It branches off the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Bicycle Route S at the Susquehanna River and includes wonderful river views along its hilly course.