Clearfield County’s forests, waterways and open spaces are home to black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, river otters and more—including Pennsylvania’s wild elk herd roaming the eastern reaches of the county. Grab your binoculars, keep a respectful distance and see what you can spot.
Clearfield County sits within Pennsylvania’s elk country, home to the largest free-roaming elk herd in the Northeast. Head toward the Quehanna Wild Area around dawn or dusk for your best chance at a sighting—or visit during the fall rut, when the unmistakable bugle of bull elk echoes through the Wilds.
From bald eagles and ospreys along the waterways to warblers, hawks and woodland birds throughout Moshannon State Forest, Clearfield County offers plenty for birders to spot. Explore Parker Dam State Park and the Quehanna Wild Area for especially diverse habitats—and keep your eyes and ears open along the way.
Spotting an elk, bear or other wild animal can be unforgettable—as long as you admire it from a safe distance. Never approach or feed wildlife, keep pets under control, and give animals plenty of room to move freely. A little respect helps keep both you and Clearfield County’s wild residents safe.
Discover your next “how did we not know about this?” moment.