Exploring Codorus State Park and Beautiful Lake Marburg

Codorus State Park is a sprawling 3,500-acre recreational haven in the heart of southern York County, Pennsylvania. Centered around the massive 1,275-acre Lake Marburg with its 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers visitors a nearly endless list of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and more.

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Park Visitor Center: 2600 Smith Station Rd, Hanover, PA 17331

Category: State Park

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Directions and Info

Codorus State Park is located at 2600 Smith Station Rd, Hanover, PA 17331 in southern York County. Visitors arriving by GPS should use the park office address listed above, then follow signs to specific attractions such as the pool, marina, campground, or boat launches.

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with certain areas such as beaches, boat launches, and trails following the same hours. Certain facilities, including the swimming pool, marina, campground, and concession areas, operate seasonally and may have varying hours.

Admission to the park is free, and ample parking is available near the marina, picnic areas, and trailheads. Boating and fishing require appropriate Pennsylvania permits, and rentals are available seasonally. Restrooms, picnic shelters, and concession areas are scattered throughout the park for visitor convenience.

For the latest information, hours, and upcoming events, be sure to check out the DCNR official website.

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Explore Beautiful Lake Marburg

The centerpiece of the park is undoubtedly Lake Marburg. Stretching across 1,275 acres, the lake dominates the landscape and serves as the hub for many of the park’s most popular activities. Originally created as a reservoir, the lake has become one of the most beloved recreation destinations in south-central Pennsylvania.

The lake offers 26 miles of shoreline and is a popular spot for motorboating, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. There are seven boat launches, including a 24-hour lighted one, with mooring and storage available. Swimming in the lake is prohibited, but the park does offer a swimming pool that is open seasonally.

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Cool Off at the Pool

One of the park’s standout family-friendly features is its large swimming pool complex, perched on a bluff with beautiful views overlooking Lake Marburg. The pool includes a sprayground/splash pad and water slides. It’s a fantastic place to cool off on hot summer days.

The pool typically opens Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor Day, with daily hours around 11 AM to 7 PM (weekends only early and late in the season). Fees apply (lower for PA residents and seniors; free for children under 42 inches). Food concessions are available, but many visitors bring picnics.

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Hit the Trails

Codorus State Park boasts over 19 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. While only a couple are hiking only, most multi-use trails are well-maintained and offer diverse scenery. Popular options include the easy LaHo Trail (1.7-mile loop along Wildasin Flats shoreline) and the more challenging Mary Ann Furnace Trail (about 3 miles through varied terrain).

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Wildlife Watching and Birding

The park’s diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, open fields, and shoreline habitats supports an impressive variety of wildlife throughout the year. Lake Marburg serves as an important stopover for migrating birds, making the park a popular destination for birdwatchers. Depending on the season, visitors may spot bald eagles soaring overhead, ospreys diving for fish, great blue herons stalking the shallows, and numerous species of ducks and other waterfowl.

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Visit the Veterans Memorial

A poignant highlight of any visit is the Veterans Memorial Grounds, constructed in 2001 by the Allied Veterans Council of Hanover with help from park staff and volunteers. Located near Pavilions 1 and 2, the memorial honors veterans from all branches and conflicts. The site features thoughtful tributes, flags, and spaces for reflection. Families can plant trees in honor and remembrance of deceased veterans.

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Recreational Activities

The park is home to one of Pennsylvania’s largest disc golf destinations, featuring an impressive 54-hole course. Families can enjoy playgrounds, open spaces for games and sports, and numerous scenic areas perfect for relaxing outdoors. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy activities such as ice fishing, ice skating, and ice boating on the frozen lake. Throughout the year, environmental education programs, guided nature walks, and special events provide additional ways to experience the park and learn about its rich natural resources.

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Camp Under the Stars

Extend your adventure with a stay at one of the park’s nearly 200 campsites, which include modern sites with electric hookups, rustic options, yurts, camping cottages, and cabins. Amenities include showers, restrooms, camp store, and playgrounds. Camping season generally runs from spring through fall.

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Honoring the Lost Passenger Pigeon

One of the most unique and often overlooked landmarks is the Passenger Pigeon Monument. This memorial honors the passenger pigeon, a bird that was once considered the most abundant bird species in North America. Yet, through a combination of unregulated hunting and habitat loss, the species was driven to extinction in the early 20th century. Interpretive information at the site provides insight into the bird’s history and its connection to the area that was once home to the now lost species.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax by the water, Codorus State Park delivers one of the best state park experiences in Pennsylvania. Its proximity to Gettysburg, Hanover, and York makes it perfect for day trips or longer stays in south-central PA. With its expansive lake, family-friendly amenities, and beautiful natural scenery, it’s a destination worth visiting in every season.

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