About Oil Creek State Park

The primary purpose of Oil Creek State Park is to tell the story of the changing landscape.

Just south of Titusville, along Oil Creek, Colonel Edwin Drake struck oil at a depth of 69.5 feet in August 1859. Drake's Well marks the birth of the world's commercial oil industry. The early petroleum industry's oil boom towns and important oil well sites are long gone. They have been replaced by clean trout streams and forested hillsides seen today throughout the park. Few oil wells are still active in the park, but newer gas wells are common.The early history of the oil region is presented well by Drake Well Museum just north of the park.

The events of the exciting 1860's, the time of the original oil boom, receive special emphasis in park's trails and by park personnel.

• Gerard Hiking Trail: Oil Creek State Park features the 36 mile volunteer maintained trail along with 4 other interpretive hiking trails.
  Two Adirondack shelter areas are available for over night stays.
• Biking Trails: A 9.7 mile paved trail that wends along Oil Creek.
• Day Use Areas:. Both areas have parking, rest rooms, playgrounds and access to Oil Creek.
  • Blood Farm has drinking water, picnic shelters, tables, and a large play field.
  • Egbert Farm (Petroleum Centre) has drinking water, restrooms, picnic shelters, additional tables and access to the park office and bike trail.
• Fishing is enjoyed in Oil Creek, Boughton Run, Toy Run and Jones Run.
• Hunting is permitted on approximately 6,250 acres of land.
• Canoeing and kayaking along Oil Creek, which is classed as beginner's waters, is best from March to June.
• Waterfalls photos and directions.

Several picnic shelters may be reserved for a fee. Call Oil Creek State Park at 814-676-5915 or DCNR reservations at 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

Two Organized Group Camping areas are available:

• Wild Cat Hollow Area
• Cross Country Ski Hut Area

Try Cross-country skiing during the winter months.

Take an interactive Slide Show Tour of the park. Thanks to Keith Cubbon.

View the interactive Google map of the park and views of Oil Creek on YouTube.

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Follow us on Facebook - Friends of Oil Creek State Park

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For the official word go to DCNR's Oil Creek State Park page.