LANCASTER, PA — In a continued push to make Pennsylvania’s natural spaces more accessible and inclusive, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) unveiled its 2025–2029 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan during the second annual “Outdoors for All Day” celebration held Saturday at Culliton Park in Lancaster.
The event drew state officials, community leaders, and environmental partners together to promote outdoor engagement and mark the formal release of the Commonwealth’s five-year strategic plan, titled Outdoor Places, Shared Spaces. The blueprint outlines 14 goals and 55 action steps to expand and improve recreational access across Pennsylvania.
Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis formally recognized July 19 as Outdoors for All Day, underscoring the administration’s ongoing efforts to connect more Pennsylvanians with public lands and outdoor experiences.
A Vision Shaped by the Public
DCNR officials emphasized that the new plan was crafted following an extensive public engagement campaign launched in early 2024. Thousands of residents, including park users, municipal officials, and recreation providers, contributed their perspectives. A 40-member Technical Advisory Committee helped guide the process.
“This plan is about making a place for everyone in the outdoors in Pennsylvania,” said Claire Jantz, DCNR’s Deputy Secretary. “Input from thousands of Pennsylvanians was critical in shaping the exciting next phase of outdoor recreation in our state.”
The plan aims to meet five central priorities: promoting community and economic development, advancing health and wellness, improving access and inclusion, addressing infrastructure and maintenance needs, and strengthening climate resilience.
Local Impact in Lancaster
The Lancaster celebration highlighted how local parks, particularly in urban areas, serve as vital community hubs. Culliton Park, where the event was held, has benefited from DCNR investments, including a $300,000 grant in 2021 to enhance green infrastructure through rain gardens and tree plantings as part of the Green It! Lancaster initiative.
“In a dense city like Lancaster, green space is indispensable,” said Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace. “Everyone deserves access to parks and recreation options in their neighborhood.”
Event programming was organized by Let’s Go 1-2-3, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating barriers to outdoor access. Activities included wildflower planting, a tree scavenger hunt developed by the SoWe neighborhood group, environmental education sessions, and a kayaking demonstration by the Conestoga River Club.
“Outdoors for All Day showcases many opportunities that Lancaster residents have to engage with their local greenspaces and environmentally focused organizations,” said Keisha Scovens, Executive Director of Let’s Go 1-2-3. “It is a joy to see people involved with nature in a fun, engaging way.”
A Growing Economic Driver
The announcement also highlighted the economic significance of outdoor recreation in the state. According to federal data, the sector contributed $19 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy in 2023, marking a 10 percent increase over the previous year. The industry now supports over 168,000 jobs and generates $9 billion in wages.
Nathan Reigner, Pennsylvania’s Director of Outdoor Recreation, framed the investment in public lands as both a social and economic imperative. “Outdoor recreation offers so much more than fun and fitness — it unites communities and supports economic prosperity that improves quality of life across Pennsylvania,” he said.
DCNR’s efforts are part of broader initiatives including Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway and the “Still Open. Still Awesome.” campaign, aimed at attracting residents and tourists to the state’s 124 parks, 2.2 million acres of forestland, and more than 7,000 campsites.
As DCNR marks its 30th anniversary in 2025, officials say they remain committed to maintaining safe, inclusive, and welcoming public lands for all Pennsylvanians, now and for generations to come.
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