14 Acres Added To Nockamixon State Park

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Nockamixon State Park has been expanded by 14 acres after two surrounding properties previously at risk for development were purchased by Natural Lands and Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks.

The two newly added properties will be open to visitors and bring Nockamixon’s acreage to 5,304.

The popular State Park in Upper Bucks County draws thousands of visitors for various activities, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, boating, fishing, and more.

The Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks provided half of the funding for the properties. Natural Lands secured the remaining monies through the Highlands Act, the organization announced in a news release.

“Over the past few months, as the coronavirus turned things upside down, we’ve watched people flock to the outdoors for exercise, relaxation, and comfort,” said Oliver Bass, president of Natural Lands. “It’s extremely rewarding to be a part of these projects, which have added critical open space to Nockamixon State Park that everyone can enjoy.”

The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said the expansion of the park comes at a good time.

“This year due to the circumstances related to COVID-19, DCNR lands and public outdoor spaces have experienced record visitation,” said Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). “DCNR recognizes the importance parks and forests have in maintaining an individual’s physical and mental health. Now more than ever, public lands are providing the space needed for people to connect to nature.”

The two forested properties help protect the water quality of Lake Nockamixon by filtering and slowing stormwater, according to information from Natural Lands.

The land also creates a scenic view for drivers traveling along Rt. 563.

“We decided that preserving this lovely wooded property was the best possible use of this land,” said David Moyer, former owner of one of the two recently transferred properties. “We are thrilled at this very positive outcome and hope the people of Bucks County and all visitors to the park will be able to enjoy this parcel of woodland in its natural, undeveloped state.”