May Programs 2026 | Cowans Gap State Park, Fort Loudon
May 16
Saturday May 16th * 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Volunteer Workday
Join us for our monthly Volunteer Workday. Projects will include work on the Nature Center Pollinator Gardens, and general clean-up of the trails and park.
Do you know your bird or want to test your knowledge or simply like bingo? Join us and let’s find out if you can recognize nature’s own choir.
Educational Fire Ring
Saturday May 23rd * 5:00 PM | Evening Paddle at Cowans Gap
Kayak and gear provided or bring your own (must notify if bring your own). Life jackets required to be worn. Registration is required, HERE. Participants must be 12 year or older. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Amphitheater
Saturday May 23rd * 9:00 PM | Discover the Night Sky
Join Mark Grosz from DarkSkyPA for a magical night under the stars! Discover constellations, planets, and the beauty of the night sky while enjoying a captivation story. Bring blankets/chairs and the whole family!
Beach Area
Monday May 25th * 10:00 AM | A Walk Back in Time: CCC
Step back in time with the park educator as we walk to uncover the fascinating history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the origins of Cowans Gap. Discover how this beloved park came to be.. the story might just surprise you!
Amphitheater
Friday May 29th * 4:00 PM | Evening Overlook Hike
Join us on an informational hike up to the overlook. Hike is not recommended for smaller children.
Amphitheater
Saturday May 30th * 3:00 PM | Life of James Buchanan
Join the park educator at Buchanan’s Birthplace State Park to dive into the life of our 15th President of the United States.
The Stitches in Time Barn Quilt Trail includes more than three dozen quilt squares spread throughout Franklin County, PA. Some are inspired by traditional quilt patterns or family designs. Between each square are the many stories of Franklin County.
Coffee Shops
Enjoy a Great Cup of Joe in Franklin County coffee shops!
Pizza Trail
Talk to locals about the “best pizza place, and everyone has a couple favorites. Add them all together and Franklin County has great Italian eateries.
Pour Trail
See the great locations and great beer, wine and spirits that are waiting for you along the pour trail. Plan your next trip and enjoy the flavor of Franklin County.
Sweet Trail
Franklin County is a sweet place to be! Enjoy old-fashioned candy makers, chocolatiers, delicious ice cream, and even pie stores.
Explore the history of Chambersburg and the Civil War.
John Brown
Who was John Brown, what did he do, why did he do it, and what was his connection to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania?
Spring Into History
Explore 300 Years of American History
Underground Railroad
Franklin County played an important role in the passage to freedom—the Underground Railroad. Its location on the Mason-Dixon Line signaled escaping slaves entry to the north, and the mountainous terrain afforded numerous hiding places in caves and wooded areas.
Environmental Centers connect the busy daily lives of people to nature & remind everyone of the importance of fresh water, green trees, and clean air. Explore the beauty of outdoor Franklin County at one of its environmental centers.
Outdoors
Fishing, hiking trails, golfing, kayaking - Franklin County is home to great outdoor fun and relaxation.
Golf
The scenic beauty of Franklin County is timeless and compliments a variety of golfing experiences.
Walking & Hiking
With four state parks and 36 municipal parks, Franklin County gives many choices to enjoy greenery, birds chirping, and mountain views.