Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the completion of $5.2 million in new improvements at Cherry Springs State Park, an International Dark Sky Park in Potter County. This major investment enhances visitor accessibility and safety while protecting the park’s world‑class dark skies — advancing the Commonwealth’s commitment to modern infrastructure, outdoor recreation, and sustainable public lands management.
“Cherry Springs is one of the most remarkable places in our state park system, where generations of visitors have come to experience a night sky that most people in the world will never see,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “This park comes alive after dark, and we have a responsibility to conserve that experience for the future. These improvements help us meet the needs of a park that shines at night and ensure we can continue offering an outstanding dark sky experience with thoughtful, sustainable infrastructure that reflects the best of what Pennsylvania’s public lands can provide.”
The project redesigned how visitors move through the park at night, reduced artificial light, and expanded facilities to support astronomy, education, and large events.
Project improvements include:
- Relocated parking lot entrances to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and protect dark sky quality.
- Adjusted visitor circulation patterns for improved safety at night and to preserve dark skies.
- Enhanced headlight‑blocking mounds to prevent light shining into the astronomy field.
- Installed two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
- Constructed a new Contact Station to welcome visitors and support program logistics.
- Upgraded the programming area with an improved amphitheater, increased seating, and a pavilion featuring telescope storage, solar panels, and flexible covered space.
- Built a 10,000‑gallon water storage tank and modern water treatment system to increase capacity during large events.
- Added electric service for vendors at large events.
Cherry Springs State Park is named for the black cherry trees historically found in the area and is surrounded by the 262,000‑acre Susquehannock State Forest. The park earned Gold Level International Dark Sky Park status in 2008 and is one of the world’s premier destinations for viewing the Milky Way, planets, and other astronomical phenomena. It is located within the Pennsylvania Wilds Conservation Landscape and the Pennsylvania Route 6 Heritage Corridor.
