Pennsylvania National Wildlife Refuges

Attractions - The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife manage two wildlife refuges in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Erie NWR is located in the western area of the state, slightly southeast of Lake Erie, while John Heinz NWR is located in the midst of one of American's largest cities, Philadelphia. Each refuge protects and manages biological diverse habitat while offering an educational and recreational opportunity to the public.

Recreation - Wildlife viewing, nature photography, educational programs, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, boating, fishing and hunting are the recreational opportunities available at Pennsylvania's National Wildlife Refuges. The sites welcome professional, civic and student groups with advance notification.

Climate - Pennsylvania has four distinct seasons and recreationists can find good in each one. Summer is usually hot and humid often extending from late May into September. Expect temperatures in the southeastern part of the state to reach 90 degrees F frequently. Temperatures in the Northern and western areas of the state are slightly cooler. Summer lows usually don't dip below 60 degrees F.

Winter temperatures average between 25 degrees and 45 degrees F in southeastern Pennsylvania. The west and mountains receive colder temperatures that average between -10 degrees and 35 degrees F. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit the state as temperatures are mild with little humidity. Spring brings a variety of wildflowers and shrubs into bloom and fall color displays of deciduous trees draw many to the forests of the state.

Location - Erie National Wildlife Refuge is located in Crawford County, 35 miles south of the city of Erie and Lake Erie in northwestern Pennsylvania. John Heinz is located in southern Philadelphia just north of I-95 via the Airport Exit.