DRIFTWOOD, PA — Pennsylvania officials marked Recovery Month on Thursday by bringing people in recovery, treatment providers and park staff together at Sinnemahoning State Park for a new “Recovery in Nature” push that ties substance use supports to time outdoors.
The event, held Sept. 11, featured guided paddling and short hikes and was organized by the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Department of Health. Agencies said the aim is to expand low-barrier, community-based activities that complement prevention, treatment and recovery services across the state.
“Together with DCNR, we are continuously using cross-agency solutions to better prevent SUD and save lives through access to high-quality education, treatment, and recovery supports,” said DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones.
DCNR leaders encouraged Pennsylvanians to use state parks and forests as part of a broader wellness routine, noting research that links outdoor time to improved mental and physical health. “Stepping outdoors—even for a little while—can be a powerful tool for mental and physical well-being,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn.
Health officials underscored those benefits as part of the initiative. “Spending more time in nature is associated with decreased stress, improved mental health, better sleep, and increased physical activity,” said Department of Health Deputy Secretary Muneeza Iqbal, M.D., M.P.H.
The agencies highlighted simple, accessible outings statewide—such as short loops and waterfront launches—that local recovery organizations can incorporate into regular programming. Suggested spots include River Walk at Neshaminy State Park; the Wildflower Reserve in Raccoon Creek State Park; Bluffs Edge Trail at Erie Bluffs State Park; Sand Spring Trail at Lehigh Gorge State Park; Lowlands Trail and Jay’s Day Loop at Sinnemahoning State Park; Henry’s Woods Loop at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center; and Pine Island Vista Trail in Tioga State Forest.
Regional Recovery Hubs, which coordinate services in communities across Pennsylvania, are being encouraged to partner with nearby parks and forests to schedule recurring walks, paddles and other activities. Officials said those partnerships are intended to make recovery-supportive options more consistent and visible in every region.
State leaders framed the outdoor effort as one piece of a broader strategy to expand prevention education, improve access to care and strengthen long-term recovery supports during Recovery Month and beyond.
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