Buchanan&Apos;S Birthplace State Park
00 reviewC/O COWANS GAP STATE PARK, FORT LOUDON, Pennsylvania, 17224, United States
Buchanan&Apos;S Birthplace State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No reservation fees or campsite fees applicable as the park does not offer campsites.
About this campground
Tucked into a dramatic mountain gap where history and nature converge, Buchanan's Birthplace State Park offers 18.5 acres of peaceful retreat in Franklin County's Tuscarora Mountain. This intimate park invites visitors to step back in time at the birthplace of America's 15th President, James Buchanan, while enjoying modern amenities including shaded picnic pavilions perfect for family gatherings, scattered picnic tables beneath towering trees, clean restroom facilities, and refreshing drinking water stations throughout the grounds.
Buchanan's Birthplace State Park does not have designated campsites, making it unsuitable for traditional camping. It is more suited for day visits, focused on historical exploration and picnicking.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at the very spot where James Buchanan entered the world in 1791, born to hardy Ulster Scots settlers who carved out a life on what was then the raw edge of the American frontier. This modest gap in the mountains witnessed the early years of a man who would rise from these humble beginnings to the nation's highest office. The park stands as a testament to the American dream, where frontier children could grow to lead a nation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Pennsylvania's changing seasons in this mountain sanctuary. Winter transforms the park into a quiet wonderland with crisp air and occasional dustings of snow, while summer brings warm, languid days perfect for leisurely picnics in the shade. Spring awakens the forest with vibrant greens and wildflowers punctuated by gentle rains, and autumn paints the surrounding mountains in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures in comfortable temperatures.
ElevationElevation details not specified.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbrace the serene beauty of Pennsylvania's ridge-and-valley landscape, where forested mountainsides create a natural amphitheater around this historic site. The crystal-clear waters of Buck Run meander through the park, harboring a thriving population of native trout that sparkle beneath the surface—carefully protected under Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations. Ancient trees provide a verdant canopy overhead, while the surrounding peaks frame spectacular views that change with each passing hour and season.
Geological RegionDiscover a natural gateway carved by time itself in the majestic Tuscarora Mountain range of Franklin County. This distinctive gap in the ancient ridgeline creates a unique microclimate where mountain forests descend to meet the valley floor, forming a natural corridor that has beckoned travelers for centuries. The surrounding forested mountains stand as silent sentinels, their geological story written in layers of rock that speak to millions of years of Earth's history.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Recreation options at Buchanan's Birthplace State Park are centered around its natural beauty and historical significance. Fishing is available at Buck Run, which contains native trout and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The Tuscarora Trail, which serves as a bypass to the Appalachian Trail, passes to the west of the park, offering hiking opportunities. "Interesting historical location and nice park for a picnic or hike," one reviewer stated.
Hiking
The Tuscarora Trail runs near the park and offers hiking opportunities. It is a bypass to the Appalachian Trail and follows the crest of the Tuscarora Mountain.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Buck Run, which contains native trout. The waters are regulated by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention that the park is 'not well taken care of,' with tables needing replacement. No specific hazards like wildlife or terrain issues are noted.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Proximity to water featuresBuck Run flows through the park and supports native trout, serving as a key water feature.
Common complaintsSome visitors noted lack of maintenance, such as picnic tables needing replacement. One review highlighted shortcomings with restroom availability.
Hostnull
Campground Map
C/O COWANS GAP STATE PARK, FORT LOUDON, Pennsylvania, 17224, United States
Driving directionsFrom U.S. 30 at Fort Loudon, take PA 75 south and follow signs to Cove Gap and the Park.
The park is located between McConnellsburg and Mercersburg, near Cove Gap along PA 16. Access details note proximity to PA 75 and U.S. 30, but road conditions or seasonal closures are not specified.Nearby places
McConnellsburg and Mercersburg (distances not specified).
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Buchanan&Apos;S Birthplace State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Buchanan's Birthplace State Park as a tranquil and historically rich location. Visitors appreciate the pyramid-shaped monument dedicated to President James Buchanan and the serene environment. However, some reviewers have noted maintenance issues with picnic tables.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Historical significance as the birthplace of President James Buchanan - Peaceful environment at the foot of Tuscarora Mountain - Suitable for picnicking and short visits
Common Concerns
- Maintenance issues, particularly with picnic tables - Limited facilities and no restrooms according to one review
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Allocate 10 minutes to 1 hour for a visit - Ideal for picnics and quick historical exploration
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful little off the beaten path site a must stop for anyone wanting some history and a little quiet out of the way place." - Matthew Perry "Small park that was the birthplace of the 15th...
Show more
Last updated August 10, 2025