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Kings Gap Environmental Education Center

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center's unique attractions are its mountainous terrain, extensive forest, and panoramic views, which may be experienced while driving the winding road to the mansion area, or while hiking the trails. The sweeping view of the Cumberland Valley from the Cameron-Masland Mansion is impressive at any time of the year.

Kings Gap consists of 2,531 acres of forest on South Mountain, with more than 25 miles of hiking trails, a permanent orienteering course, picnicking, hunting, and other recreational and educational opportunities.

The mansion provides facilities for meals and overnight lodging, and may be reserved for meetings, weddings, receptions, and similar functions.

Kings Gap is one of several state parks specifically dedicated to provide environmental education and recreational programs to the citizens of Pennsylvania. A variety of programs are available for children, teachers, and the general public to increase knowledge and awareness of the values and function of our natural resources.

Whether enjoying Kings Gap through recreational activities, educational programs, or its scenic beauty, visitors can be inspired to become stewards of Pennsylvania’s outstanding natural resources.

Seasons and Hours

The center is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. Day use areas close at dusk.

The center office is open specific hours. Contact the center office for facility seasons and hours.

This map shows the park in Pennsylvania.

Directions

From Interstate 81, take Exit 37.

  • Travel south on PA 233 for about 2.3 miles.
  • Turn left onto Pine Road and continue 2.2 miles.
  • Turn right onto Kings Gap Road.

The Cameron-Masland Mansion is 3.5 miles from the center’s entrance. Follow the winding, paved road to the top of the mountain. In the Mansion Area, bear left to follow the one-way directional signs. Parking is available in several lots adjacent to the education building and mansion.

GPS DD: Lat. 40.09321 Long. -77.2683

This circular map shows the roads near the park.

Learn, Experience, Connect

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center is committed to providing a diverse array of environmental education programs.

Programming is offered year-round to schools, civic groups, and the community.

Educational programs are age-specific and generate learning through discovery and a hands-on approach. Kings Gap also strives to teach outdoor skills that lead to healthy, lifelong outdoor enjoyment.

A schedule of community programs is available at the center. School programs can be arranged by calling the center at 717-486-3799.

Meetings, Retreats, and Trainings

The mansion is available to host meetings, retreats, and trainings for government agencies, private businesses, and non-profit organizations.

Meeting rooms, food service, and overnight accommodations are available from mid-April through mid-November.

Contact the center office for additional information, availability, prices, and to make a reservation.

Weddings, Receptions, and Other Special Events

From sweeping views of mountains and the Cumberland Valley to the historical backdrop of the Cameron-Masland Mansion and surroundings, Kings Gap offers a unique setting for weddings and receptions.

The mansion and grounds are available to rent for weddings, receptions, and a variety of special events from mid-April through mid-November. Overnight accommodations are also available.

Contact the center office for additional information, availability, prices, and to make a reservation.

Electric Vehicle Charging Station

A two-plug, electric-vehicle charging station is available for public use in the Education Center parking lot. Please move to another parking space once your vehicle has been charged.

Access for People with Disabilities

This activity or structure is ADA accessible. If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit.

In an Emergency

Call 911 and contact a center employee.

Directions to the nearest hospital are posted on bulletin boards and at the center office.

Nearest Hospital

361 Alexander Spring Road
Carlisle, PA 17015

717-249-1212

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​Explore Kings Gap EEC

 Content Editor ‭[1]‬

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center