Three Free, Outdoor Attractions in Dutch Country, PA

Dutchy Country is the area around the city of Lancaster, which has many lovely outdoor attractions. Known for being the home of a large Amish community, Dutch Country, PA is a pleasure to drive through. Comprised of beautiful rolling hills and peaceful farmland, you can find many picturesque covered bridges in this area. You’re likely to see Amish buggies clip clopping along the roads, or horse-pulled plows out on the fields.

We like to stop at Dutch Way on route 41. But, there are a variety of places to get Amish made food, which is delicious, or buy homemade Amish goods. You’ll share the road with buggies, especially on Sundays or around sunset. So, be careful and enjoy the glimpse into this unusual way of life. If you visit on Sunday, remember that the Amish-owned businesses close on the sabbath.

You will also find some lovely, interesting, and free outdoor attractions in this region of PA. Here are a few of our favorites.

Free, outdoor fun at Fort Hunter Mansion and Park in Dutch country

Fort Hunter Mansion and Park lies along the Susquehanna, and makes for a gorgeous walk. There is a small playground, bathrooms, and lovely views of the river and mountains beyond. The mansion is believed to be built over the blockhouse of an eighteenth-century fort. First built in 1786, additions extended the mansion in later years. They were getting ready for a wedding the day we were there, and you could see why. A beautiful building and background for photos!

Several trails from the parking lot near the mansion wind down to the bank of the river. There is also a trail heading parallel to the river, which we followed until we came to a church near the Rockville Bridge. The land seemed to be private property after that. But, a sign explained that the bridge was built in 1902 and is the longest stone arch railroad bridge in the world. It is a pretty piece of architecture.

Free, Outdoor fun at Holtwood Dam and Mill Creek Falls

Venture just across the river into York County to see Holtwood Dam and Mill Creek Falls. There are numerous trails to access near Lock 12, as well as picnic tables, portable restrooms and a small playground, but you can also continue down the narrow gravel road closer to the dam. Before you reach the lot near the dam, you’ll see an unmarked but clear trailhead opposite the river that leads to Mill Creek Falls.

The falls are visible almost immediately upon starting on the trail, and go on in fits and starts for perhaps a quarter mile or so. There is no barrier, but the well-maintained trail is enjoyable for the whole family. You can climb down to rocks next to the falls in several places, but take care as it is damp, mossy and a bit slick.

Also of interest is the dam itself. Continue down the gravel road past lock 12 to the lot closest to the dam, and walk down to the river if it’s a clear day. (There are signs everywhere saying the river can rise with dangerous speed, thus you don’t want to explore the area near the dam when there’s potential for rain.) It provides a good way for kids to learn about hydroelectric power, as you hear, see and feel the power of the river rolling over the dam. It’s easy to imagine it being converted into electricity.

Visit Money Rocks State Park in Dutch Country

Money Rocks County Park is an interesting small park about 10 minutes away from Shady Maple Smorgasbord. So named because it was rumored that people hid their money amongst the rocks, this was a fun little hike and the perfect size for our family (short, but with lots of rocks to climb.) It is probably less than a mile, free to enter, and includes adequate parking.

The main attraction is a tall rock wall – a trail leads to the bottom of the rocks, then loops around to the top where you can (carefully) climb up to take in the view. The forest obscures the view, but the fun is in the climb and in noticing the unique geological formations you are climbing on. We also noticed some inscriptions on the rocks that appeared to be from the 1800’s!

It is a great idea to pair this park with a meal at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, a well-known and enormous buffet that is a can’t-miss in the area if you are interested in trying authentic, Pennsylvania-Dutch food. We love going for breakfast, which is quite affordable and delicious! Definitely try the baked French toast and scrumptious donuts. It can get crowded, but the 180 employees keep things moving, which means you won’t have long to wait.