A mature oak woodland covers 90% of the 750-acre Rock Ridge Park. Rocky Ridge became the first county park when it was purchased in 1968. It’s positioned on a rock-strewn hilltop northwest of Hellam, one of the first spots where the county’s first residents set up shop. Picnic pavilions, multi-use pathways, and magnificent vistas of the Susquehanna Valley are all popular attractions. Hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers may enjoy over twelve miles of trails. During “wet conditions,” as defined by Park Rangers, trails are closed to horses and cyclists. In the park, there are two observation decks. One deck, on the park’s north side, provides a panoramic view of the Susquehanna Valley (ADA accessible). The other balcony overlooks the York Valley and is located on the park’s south side. The Hidden Laurel picnic spot has a Nature Fun Zone. Children ages 2 to 12 have access to a fenced-in area where they may interact with nature. There are many zones in the region, including a digging zone, a climbing zone, a quiet zone, a building zone, and others. Near the Hidden Laurel Picnic Area, there is one non-regulation softball field. It is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those who are waiting to use it. In the Hidden Laurel Picnic Area, there is one sand volleyball court. If another party is waiting, please restrict gaming to one hour. There is also a Fitness Trail that runs from Hidden Laurel Picnic Area to the park’s north side observation platform. This half-mile, cinder, all-weather trail has 20 workout stations strewn about. With special authorization from the Parks Office, limited hunting is permitted. Hidden Laurel and Oak Timbers picnic spots have Horseshoe Pits. For a little charge, eleven pavilions may be leased. The seating capacity ranges from 50 to 200 people. Parking spaces and facilities are close by. All of them are ADA-compliant. Gazebos can be rented for a cost. Christmas Magic, “A Festival of Lights”: This event is a 600,000+ multi-colored light show sponsored by the park. It has a half-mile walking track that runs through Oak Timbers Picnic Area, stopping at heated pavilions along the way. There are refreshments available. The route begins the Friday following Thanksgiving and runs until December 31st. (The 24th and 25th of December are closed.) Each autumn, the County Parks and the York Road Runners Club co-sponsor a 5K event. This event begins in the Hidden Laurel parking lot, travels along the main road, detours into various trails, and returns to the starting point.

Click here to see an overview of roofing services we offer around York.

Previous Page || Next Page