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Codorus State Park's eagles among many attractions


The burning question at Codorus State Park is: Where is the eagles' nest?

Well, it's close by (the exact location is a tightly held secret), but bad news for those who want to spot it: People should stay 1,000 feet from the nest because sudden or loud noises disrupt eagles. In other words, watch the eagle cam at home, and while at Codorus, search for other flight-bound creatures instead.

"It's a real birders' paradise down there," said Terry Brady, deputy press secretary for the state's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He advises to do birding on non-holidays and weekdays, when the park is quieter.

For hours and hours of fun at the park, water is the word. The swimming pool (with waterslides) sits on a bluff overlooking Lake Marburg. For people with disabilities, it has a ramp and electric chair lift. Also in the swimming area is a snack bar.

Swimming isn't allowed in the lake because the temperature of the lake fluctuates too much, but fishermen flock to the lake for yellow perch, bluegill, northern pike, catfish and more.

"The anglers in-the-know know there's major muskie in that lake," Brady said.

Amenities:

3,490 acres

Disc golf course: The 54-hole Codorus Disc Golf Course is considered one of the most challenging in Pennsylvania. A nine-hole course has also been built for children.

Hiking trails: There are 19 miles of trails, but only two designated specifically for hikers. Other trails for bikes and horses can also be hiked. Both of the official trails — Mary Ann Furnace Trail (3.5 miles) and Laho Trail (1.5 miles) — have steep and potentially muddy areas. For an easier walk, there are areas to walk near the swimming pool and picnic areas.

Boating: Pontoons, motor boats, canoes, paddleboats and kayaks are available for rent in the Marina Day Use Area. Near the swimming pool is the Oar House boat rental for canoes, kayaks and paddleboats.

Fishing

Swimming pool: Fees (for Pennsylvania residents) are $7 (or $4 after 4 p.m.) and $4 for senior citizens.

Scuba diving (for licensed divers in limited area)

Horseback riding trails

Mountain biking trails

Camping

Cottages and yurts for rent: What are yurts? Rounded tents that have become quite popular at the parks, Brady said. All rentals at the parks fill up quickly. Reserve early.

For a picnic: Heavily shaded picnic tables are near the pool, and two large picnic pavilions can be reserved up to 11 months in advance for a fee. In the Marina Day Use Area near disc golf is a grassy area for picnics.

Where is it: East of Hanover along Route 216.

Its namesake: It's named for Codorus Creek, which feeds into Lake Marburg.

Where to explore nearby: Drive the 3 or 4 miles to Hanover, which has some great shops and restaurants, such as the Hanover Hub, 11 York St., and Half Pint Creamery, 3780 Centennial Road. And while you're in the area, try one of the snack food tours to learn how Utz potato chips and Herr's snacks are made.

Also check out:

Explore three state parks in York County this summer

Pinchot Lake shines like a jewel at state park

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