Kettle Creek State Park has 71 campsites in two areas. The park is ideal for boating, hiking, horseback riding, swimming and, of course, fishing. The 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir is noted for its trout and bass fishing, and brown bullheads and panfish can be hooked there as well. Kettle Creek Lake, near the lower campground, is another popular fishing area. Several excellent native trout streams surround the park.

Hyner Run State Park is known for its outstanding trout fishing. Brook and brown trout are stocked annually, and native brook trout inhabit its upper reaches. Hyner has 30 rustic campsites and one cabin. The camping area features a large swimming pool and children's playground. While in the area, stop by Hyner View State Park, where the claim to fame is great hang gliding!

Ravensburg State Park is nestled in a steep-walled gorge carved by the Rauchtown Run through the side of Nippenose Mountain. The Run and its tributaries offer excellent coldwater fishing for native brown and brook trout. Warmwater species may be had just a short drive away at the West Branch Susquehanna River, Bald Eagle Creek and Blanchard Lake. The park has 21 rustic, tent-only sites and is known for its interesting geological formations and hiking trails.

Halfway Lake is the jewel of R.B. Winter State Park, which covers 695 acres within Bald Eagle State Forest. It is stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout. Camping options include 59 sites that can accommodate tents, trailers and motor homes, and rental cottages are available.

The 78-acre Shikellamy Overlook section of Shikellamy State Park is on the western shore of the Susquehanna River and overlooks the confluence of the West and North branches. If that weren't enough to keep anglers busy, the 3,060-acre Lake Augusta (as this section of the river is known) is a popular bass and walleye fishery.

The park is also worth a day visit for the two overlooks, which are 360 feet above the river confluence and offer spectacular views of Sunbury, Northumberland and the surrounding areas. Paved and unpaved hiking and biking trails offer visitors a peek at wildlife, songbirds and local flora. Unique geological formations may be studied in the park and on the eastern boundary cliff trail extension.

While in central Pennsylvania, be sure to watch the Altoona Curve, the Double-A farm team of the Pittsburgh Pirates. At the right time of year, you may get to see the team in action. If not, Lakemont Park, Altoona's 30-ride amusement complex, is just a short drive away. Visit the Railroader's Memorial Museum in Altoona and see Horseshoe Curve, a national landmark train track that was the target of attempted sabotage during World War II.

For a taste of local history, visit Boalsburg, birthplace of Memorial Day and home to the Pennsylvania Military Museum.

For more information about area attractions, contact the Susquehanna Valley Visitor's Bureau at (800) 525-7320 or online at www.visitcentralpa.org.

NOT JUST FOR HONEYMOONERS
The mountainous northeast region of the state is best known as the Poconos, the traditional honeymooner's paradise. The area's old hemlock forests, 22 scenic waterfalls, miles of hiking trails and great fishing waters make it a paradise for families, too.

Want to spend your vacation some place so quiet it seems like the end of the world? Try one of the 70 campsites or 19 cabins at World's End State Park. The cold mountain water offers good fishing most of the year, and Loyalsock Creek is stocked with trout.

A small dam on the creek forms a swimming area. Other than this spot, the creek is open for whitewater boaters. The park offers hands-on activities, guided walks and evening programs to help visitors gain appreciation, understanding and develop a sense of stewardship toward natural and cultural resources.