State Game Lands Number 80, Pine Grove PA

This is a historic stop that features info about the bridges in this area of the Swatara Creek.

Rode 20 miles on Swatara rail trail & bear creek trail. Excellent ride!

Great game lands, and also can be used for hiking and other outdoor activities. Well maintained and safe, plus it's only a few miutes off the the interstate I-81 in southern Schuylkill county!

Beautiful grounds, but I feel it's over-hunted & should be more monitored on and off season. I realize this is a massive area to cover for those who maintain & patrol the grounds, so all visitors must learn to do their part to contribute, so our future generations can enjoy this as well.
I have hiked here often over the years, in various areas. I favor the seemingly more preserved spots, viewing nature for miles, & taking in the tranquility & fresh, clean air. Unfortunately, on more than several visits, I came across some disturbing things. Found a deer carcass with no head. Obviously not killed not to feed a family, but for a trophy. Such a waste of a life! I'm not a hunter, but that's me. I do not judge nor do I have an issue with someone hunting for food. I just can't relate to hunting strictly for sport or to take a life just to boast about another rack on your wall, or to have a stuffed animal in your home, posed in an unnatural, fierce pose. Found illegal traps on different days, and on another day, I spotted an injured animal with a bow in its leg. I've also come across 2 very young, thin bear cubs, with no mother in sight or sound. I know to keep my distance from bears. I know they are peaceful animals, but just like us, can become defensive when they feel threatened or cornered. This is especially true when they have cubs since (like humans), will become very protective of their young.
If u choose to hunt, you should show respect for the animal in life as well as in death. It is your responsibility to observe the laws, learn about conservation, be skilled, swift
and humane to prevent any suffering, leave peacefully and quietly with the food you are providing for your family. I don't feel the need for smiling pics with a dead animal who just sacrificed his life for you. You can be proud, but its not something to boast about. That is only desensitizing our children to what just took place and why, the importance of the skill they must learn in order to provide for family, and to be able to distinguish that hunting is not a fun game, but a way to survive. It's about appreciation, respect, thankfulness, responsibility, and empathy.
This is a beautiful area, but there used to be many more animals to enjoy watching in their natural habitat & less trash carelessly left behind (mostly in specific areas.) We are all Gods creatures, and nature is a gift. Enjoy it's beauty, respect the land and its animals, take only what you need, breathe, and be thankful. Have a Happy New Year. Stay safe, well, and kind.