Local Sites to Boat, Fish, and Recreate Outdoors
Jump Ahead
Discovery Pathways Programs in Philadelphia
Free Boating at FDR Park
Join us for Free Community boating days at least twice a month. We provide instruction and support for you and your family to get out and enjoy a day on the water. We have rowboats, kayaks, and canoes.
All ages are welcome, but kids must be accompanied by a guardian. No experience is needed and no pre-registration.
New Dates will be posted in January for 2024
Free Fishing at FDR Park
Join us to learn and try fishing, right here in South Philly. We provide rods, bait, and instruction. All ages are welcome
New Dates will be posted in January for 2024. WEDNESDAYS From 4-6:30 PM. Check our website and social media for updates
The lakes are cleaner than ever and fish include bass, catfish, sunfish/ bluegill, carp, and more.
Trails and Waterways in Philadelphia
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge
8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia - (15 minutes from FDR)
Great walking trails around a lake. Free fishing and boating programs
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/john-heinz-tinicum
Bartram’s Garden
5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia - (15 minutes from FDR)
Free boating every Saturday. Free fishing every Wednesday. Great walking trails.
https://www.bartramsgarden.org/boathouse/
Wissahickon Valley Park
Northwest Philadelphia - (25 minutes from FDR)
Great hiking and walking trails along a beautiful creek.
Fairmount Park Conservancy (FPC)
Awesome programs for hiking, tours, Bailar, and more. In Philly Parks
Hidden River Outfitters
Walnut Street Dock - (15 minutes from FDR)
Paid kayaking tours in Center City on the Schuylkill.
https://www.hiddenriveroutfitters.com/hro-schedule
Walking and Events along the Delaware River
Spruce Harbor Park, Penn’s Landing, and more.
https://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com/
You can rent Boats at Penn’s Landing: https://www.phillyseaport.org/paddle/
Google Maps with Nature Sites in Philly
Boating and Hiking Outside of Philadelphia
Schuylkill Highlands
Their website has great information about many sites close to Philly for hiking, kayaking, picnicking, and exploring.
https://www.schuylkillhighlands.org/explore/
Schuylkill River Greenways
Their website has great information about biking, walking, and water trails along the Schuylkill.
French Creek State Park
Everson, PA - (1 Hour from FDR)
Boat rentals, hiking, fishing, camping, and more.
https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/FrenchCreekStatePark/Pages/default.aspx
Marsh Creek State Park
(1 hour from FDR)
Fishing, boat rentals, swimming pool, picnics. Marsh Creek Water Sports is great for kayaking rentals!
Take it Outdoors
(1.25 hours from FDR)
Boat rentals and trips on the Schuylkill River from Pottstown. Beautiful scenery.
https://takeitoutdoorsadventures.com/
Kayaking Loop at Lock 60
Schuylkill Canal Park, Phoenixville - (45 minutes from FDR)
Boats can be rented from Port Providence
Pine Barrens
A region in New Jersey - (1 hour away)
Pinelands Adventures or Mick’s Canoe Rental rent boats for great trips and provide maps and information
Local State Parks for Fishing, Hiking, Camping, and More
Ridley Creek State Park - Close to Philly, great walking and picnic sites.
Ralph Stover State Park - Great hiking along waterways and picnic sites. Tohickon Park is also close and wonderful
Hickory Run State Park - Great hiking, camping, swimming, and more.
Beltzville State Park – Large swimming in area.
Nockamixon State Park - Fishing and boating.
Ricketts Glen State Park - Further away, but has amazing hiking with waterfalls
World's End State Park - Further away, but great for hiking and camping.
Washington Crossing and Delaware Canal State Park
Google Map with Sites Outside Philly
Additional Resources
AllTrails. - Download this app.
A great app and website to find nearby hiking. Includes difficulty, directions, and trail length.
Getting a Fishing License
Can be bought online: https://huntfish.pa.gov/ or in person at South Philly Walmart (1675 S. Columbus Blvd)
PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PADCNR)
A resource hub to find parks, trails, and tips.
