Upper Schuylkill Valley Park

About the Park


The Schuylkill River in Upper Providence Township forms a natural backdrop to this educational display of wild animals and raptors indigenous to Pennsylvania. In one visit to the park’s Wildlife Center, you can see raccoons, foxes, wolves, rabbits, a bald eagle, a bobcat, a variety of owls, hawks, turkeys and an assortment of farm animals. A seasonal butterfly garden will delight all ages, while a permanent exhibit entitled The Schuylkill Wilds features creatures found in and around the Schuylkill River. Turtles, frogs, fish, snakes, and an opossum are on view throughout this indoor space.

Picnicking and fishing are popular along the river, and a carry-in boat ramp allows easy access for non-motorized boats.  An accessible fishing pier allows everyone to enjoy this lovely location.

Fun events for the family, especially young children, happen throughout the year. Group tours and field trips are welcomed, but prior arrangements are needed. Call the office to schedule your group trip. The site is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Because outside animals are disturbing to our wildlife, please leave your pet at home when you visit the park. Service animals are, of course, welcome.

The Schuylkill East Trail is a natural surface trail which connects Lock 60 in Mont Clare to Upper Schuylkill Valley Park along the Schuylkill River. This trail, less than 2 miles, is a bird lover’s paradise. It is accessible from the lower parking lot at Upper Schuylkill Valley Park. It is mainly flat. The trail is subject to river conditions during flooding events.

There is no fee to enter the park and it is open from sunrise to sunset. Current sunset/closing time is posted at the entrance of the park and changes seasonally.