Traveling throughout the United States has given me the unique opportunity to see some of its most beautiful natural scenery - from the Black Hills of South Dakota to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. But there's no place like home, and some of the most awe-inspiring beauty in Pennsylvania is in its state parks. We're lucky to have 124 of them, including this small-town state park in Pennsylvania that's brimming with natural beauty and fun for the whole family. It's worth a visit in any season.

Prepare for a bumpy ride along the winding gravel road that leads to Poe Valley State Park, a hidden gem that's flanked by the nearly 200,000-acre Bald Eagle State Forest.

Make sure your vehicle, particularly the tires, is in good condition before visiting.

Don't worry, though, because the views of the forest and Big Poe Mountain more than make up for the sometimes white-knuckle drive. The centerpiece of this cozy state park in Pennsylvania, however, just might be Poe Lake.

Pack your beach gear if you're visiting in the summer. The sandy beach, which boasts sensational forest views, leads into the cool water of 25-acre Poe Lake, which is just five feet at its deepest point.

The beach also features a seasonal concession stand where, if you don't feel like bringing a picnic, you can buy hot foods and snacks. Save room for ice cream, too.

You can also rent a paddleboat, kayak, or canoe, an idyllic way to explore Poe Lake on a warm summer day. Rentals are also available on select weekends in the fall and spring.

If you just feel like relaxing, snag one of the picnic tables near the water and enjoy a leisurely meal.

If you're not on the water, drink in the natural beauty by going on a scenic hike. Three miles of trails meander through Poe Valley State Park, including the one-mile Nature Loop Trail.

At just half of a mile, the out-and-back Deep Low Place Trail scores a difficult rating that will take you to the mountain's ridge and spellbinding views.

If a day at this remote state park in Pennsylvania isn't enough, pitch a tent or park your RV at one of the wooded sites in the campground. You can also rent a camping cottage.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too. You might even spot a bald eagle.

Visit Poe Valley State Park during autumn, too, to admire the fall foliage, and...

Don't discount this cozy state park in the winter, especially after it snows. Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are both popular ways to explore the park when it transforms into a winter wonderland.

Find more information on the official website of Poe Valley State Park. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this

state park in Coburn, Pennsylvania.

Have you been to this small-town state park in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Do you have any advice for those who plan to visit? Let us know in the comments! Did you know the longest trail in Pennsylvania goes through Poe Valley State Park? Explore it, or find a shorter trail on All Trails.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/statewide-trail-pa/