Wilderness Lodge and Cabins in Cook Forest, Pennsylvania Gateway Lodge

Oh, glorious wilderness! How it beckons us, creatures of comfort, to find solace in nature. Being ill prepared can cause us to drive miles to gather the things we need instead of relaxing by that crackling fire. Prepare for your ideal cabin stay and avoid scurrying like a squirrel for the things you forgot.

Here are a few cabin checklists of preparation, Smokey approved.

A close-up shot of a crackling fire burning in a round metal fire pit, with two blurred figures sitting in red Adirondack chairs in the background, each holding a dark mug. A covered metal pot sits on a small stand next to one of the chairs. The scene evokes a cozy and relaxing evening gathering around a fire, a common amenity and experience offered at Gateway Lodge in Cook Forest State Park, Pennsylvania, perfect for enjoying the outdoors and the company of loved ones.

Campfire-building Checklist

Purchase small bundles of firewood at a number of locations in Cook Forest State Park. Or choose to purchase Gateway’s 1/8th of dried kiln firewood for $45 in advance. To have it at your cabin upon arrival, please add to your stay at least 24 hours ahead of your arrival. Complimentary fire-starters and a box of matches will be in your cabin. Bring old newspapers or some kindling with you to help start the fire on those rainy or snowy visits. Here is a checklist of other campfire supplies to bring.

Newspaper or kindling
Outdoor campfire utensils
Outdoor charcoal grill with foil (grills provided at Black Bear Cabins)
Tablecloth for outdoor picnic table
Outdoor campfire chairs
Flashlights or lantern
Paper plates
Salt and pepper shakers
Cooler with ice (ice can be purchased at MacBeth’s store)
Insect repellent

River Floating Checklist
In the summer, there is nothing better than a leisurely float on the Clarion River. Pale Whale Canoe Fleet on River Road rents inner-tubes and group floats. For river fun, you’ll also want to remember these items too.

River shoes- these can be old “chucks” or water shoes, but steer away from sandals if you want to keep the nibbling minnows off those tootsies
River towels – having towels that you can slop up is always a good idea
Carabiner for your keys
If you take your own vehicle to shuttle everyone, bringing a bicycle and leaving it at the end point of your trip can make things easier to fetch your vehicle. Don’t forget a bike lock
Waterproof attachable bag for those other essentials

A view from behind shows a person wearing a wide-brimmed river hat kayaking on the calm waters of the Clarion River, likely within the scenic area near Cook Forest State Park in Pennsylvania. The kayaker is paddling with a yellow-bladed oar, moving downstream. Lush green forests line both banks of the river, reflecting in the water and creating a peaceful natural setting. The image highlights the opportunities for kayaking and enjoying the Clarion River, a popular activity for guests staying at Gateway Lodge.

Rails-to-Trails Biking Checklist

Yes, there are plenty of bike trails here, but rentals are limited so you’ll want to plan ahead. Mountain biking is best at Jakes Rocks. There are great rails-to-trails paths neighboring the park and a mountain bike trail that runs through Cook Forest too.

Bicycle with bike lock
Helmet – we care about your noggin
Water bottle – yes, the water at the cabin is good to drink
Contact PA Great Outdoors for bicycle trail map information

A scenic image captures a paved bike path stretching into the distance through lush green fields under a dramatic sunset sky, likely a section of the Route 66 bike trail. The sky features a mix of soft pastel hues and darker, more textured clouds, indicating either sunrise or sunset. Trees line the left side of the path, adding depth to the landscape. This tranquil scene evokes the peaceful outdoor recreational opportunities available near Cook Forest State Park and Gateway Lodge, particularly for cycling enthusiasts exploring the region.

Winter Wonderland Checklist

It’s stunning, it really is, but all that snow comes with some adventure. We highly recommend four-wheel drive when coming for a wintry stay. We have a snow shovel for your porch and we’ll stone the driveways, etc. Here are some things to bring for the winter.

Snow sleds – there are great sled-riding hills close by
Cross-country skis for the trails in the forest
Skates for the frozen pond along River Road
Durable waterproof hiking boots

We hope these lists help prepare you for a glorious visit. Oh, and there are woodland creatures about and if you are lucky enough to see one, remember not to feed them. They are wild and we like it that way. If you have any questions that we haven’t answered, give us a call. We are happy to help.

A wide shot captures a man and a woman cross-country skiing on a groomed trail through a snow-covered forest of tall hemlock trees, likely within Cook Forest State Park in Pennsylvania. Both skiers are wearing brightly colored Patagonia outerwear and winter hats, and they are using ski poles to propel themselves forward. The snow is pristine, and the towering hemlock trees create a picturesque winter wonderland. This image showcases one of the many outdoor winter activities available near Gateway Lodge for guests seeking adventure in the snowy landscapes of Cook Forest.

Imagine gliding through a serene winter landscape in Cook Forest State Park, Pennsylvania, just like the couple pictured here enjoying a cross-country skiing excursion. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of snow-covered hemlock trees, the groomed trails offer a fantastic opportunity for outdoor recreation near Gateway Lodge. Dressed in vibrant Patagonia gear, these skiers are making […]

An aerial view captures the winding Clarion River as it flows through a snow-dusted landscape within Cook Forest State Park, Pennsylvania, during winter. The river's dark blue water contrasts with patches of ice and snow along its banks and the surrounding forested hills. The trees on either side show a mix of evergreens and bare deciduous branches, indicating the winter season. The scene evokes a sense of serene beauty and the quiet majesty of the natural landscape around Cook Forest, which guests at Gateway Lodge can experience even in the colder months.

Experience the breathtaking winter scenery of Cook Forest State Park, Pennsylvania, from a unique perspective in this aerial photograph showcasing the winding Clarion River. Even in the colder months, the natural beauty of the region surrounding Gateway Lodge remains captivating. The dark blue waters of the river carve through a landscape touched by snow and […]

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