Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are pets permitted at County Parks & Trails?

Yes, pets are permitted at county parks and trails, but all pets must be on a leash not to exceed 6 feet. Pet owners are required to clean up after their pets.

2. May we feed the wildlife and waterfowl?

Feeding of wildlife and waterfowl is prohibited at all county parks. Please see our Regulations for more information.

3. Is fishing permitted?

Fishing is permitted at Blue Spruce Lake, Hemlock Lake and Pine Ridge Park (Tom's Run). Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission regulations apply at all county parks.

4. Is boating permitted?

At Hemlock Lake the PA Fish Commission permits electric motors and hand-propelled boats. All boats must be properly registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Boating is not permitted at Blue Spruce Park.

5. Is swimming permitted?

Swimming is not permitted at any of the county parks.

6. Is hunting permitted?

Hunting is permitted at Hemlock Lake and portions of Blue Spruce Park and Pine Ridge Park.  PA Game Commission regulations apply. Hunters should obey all safety zones. We strongly recommend that all park visitors wear appropriate safety orange clothing during hunting season (various seasons are open from October through April). Maps of both the Blue Spruce and the Pine Ridge hunting areas are available.

7. How are park facility reservations handled?

Reservations for park facilities are taken at the county parks administration office at Blue Spruce Park. Contact us for reservation information. Office hours are 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

8. How far in advance can reservations for park facilities be made?

We schedule the reservation of park facilities up to 51 weeks in advance. Groups using a park facility have one week after their use of the facility to reschedule for the next year. If no reservation is received the facility is available to the public on a first-come first serve basis.

9. Can I volunteer to help at the parks?

We welcome volunteers throughout the year at all county parks. We have a variety of both short term and long term volunteer opportunities available for individuals and groups. Contact the parks office if you are interested in assisting us in our efforts.

10. What does it cost to have a county park system?

In recent years county parks funding has amounted to less than two percent of Indiana County's total budget. About 30 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties operate county parks. We believe county parks are a good investment which helps improve Indiana County's overall quality of life.