Pennsylvania's Americana Region

The same beautiful countryside that attracted the early settlers to Berks County continues to provide opportunities to today’s residents. Hundreds of acres have been designed for recreational or preservation purposes. The Berks County Parks and Recreational Department maintains and operates several historic sites, camping and recreational facilities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineer built and maintains the Blue Marsh Lake, a project designed to provide flood control, an enormous reservoir of drinking water, and extensive recreational opportunities. The State of Pennsylvania maintains the heavily forested, scenic hills of French Creek State Park in the midst of the ever-expanding urban environment of southeastern Berks County. And the Nolde Environmental Center and the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary provide unique educational opportunities as well as the chance to enjoy the beauty of nature.