Cooksburg, Pennsylvania

Winding along hilly Route 36, 2 miles before dipping down into the valley of the 8,500-acre Cook Forest State Park, you'll spy a go-kart track on the left hand side. A zip around the 550-foot track at Cook Forest Fun Park is a fine kickoff to an adventurous weekend. Over the bridge of the main road, with attractions left and right, you'll pass above the Clarion River running at a gentle pace. Sink down into an inner tube rental from Pale Whale Canoe Fleet, where you'll get your bearings of the park. Abundant with hemlock pine trees and lively activities — such as panning for gems, outdoor yoga and fishing trout-laden waters — an overnight stay is essential. Top Hill Cabins offer vista views and wood-burning fireplaces. The Restaurant at Gateway Lodge's local menu stays true to camping style with fireside s'mores for dessert.