Cook Forest Fun Park: A Local’s Guide to Family Fun
At Hemlock Haven Retreats, we believe that spending your days surrounded by nature is no longer a fantasy. We are Michael and Amanda, locals who grew up in this beautiful area. Now, we raise our two kids here. After eight years of hosting guests at our luxury treehouses and cabins, we know exactly what makes a family vacation special.
While hiking and relaxing in the woods are wonderful, kids often want a little extra excitement. That is why we always recommend a visit to the Cook Forest Fun Park. It is the perfect place to make memories and add a little thrill to your nature getaway. In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about this local favorite.
What to Expect at Cook Forest Fun Park
If you are looking for exciting Cook Forest PA activities, this amusement park is a must. It has been a staple in the area since 1982. Our own kids love coming here, and our guests constantly tell us how much fun their families had.
The park is very clean and well kept. It offers a great mix of activities for both younger children and teenagers. You can easily spend a few hours here or make it a whole afternoon adventure.
Cook Forest Fun Park
This family amusement center is located right on Route 36 in Leeper, just a short drive from the main forest area. We love that it feels nostalgic but is still wonderfully maintained. Our guests often mention how friendly the staff is. It is a fantastic spot to let the kids burn off some energy while the adults join in on the fun.
- Ratings: 4.4/5
- Price Level: Mid-range (All-day passes and pay-per-ride options available)
- Location: 2952 PA-36, Leeper, PA 16233
- Contact: (814) 744-9404
- Hours: Open daily during the summer season, usually 10 AM to 8 PM (open until 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
- Insight: The bumper boats are a massive hit, but be warned, you will get very wet!
Learn more about Cook Forest Fun Park
Top Attractions at the Park
The park is packed with things to do. Here are the main attractions you will find when you visit.
The Go-Karts
This is a classic family favorite. The track is safe but still very exciting. Kids love racing each other around the curves. It is a great way to spark some friendly family competition.
18-Hole Miniature Golf
The mini-golf course here is truly beautiful. It features running waterfalls, small streams, and colorful koi fish ponds. It is very relaxing and provides great photo opportunities for your group.
Bumper Boats
If you visit on a hot summer day, the bumper boats are the best way to cool down. They are equipped with water squirters. You can splash your family and friends as you bump into them.
Sky-Rapids Waterslide
This is a huge water slide that kids want to ride over and over again. You ride down on special mats. It is fast, fun, and very refreshing.
Fun Park Grill and Snack Shop
All that playing will definitely make you hungry. The snack bar has great options for a quick bite. Best of all, they serve delicious Hershey’s ice cream.
💡 Local tip: If your kids want to do everything multiple times, ask about the Super Fun Pass. It usually offers unlimited rides and saves you money compared to paying for each activity separately.
Make a Full Day Out of Your Visit
After spending a few hours at the fun park, there is still plenty to see in the area. We highly suggest combining your park trip with some of our other favorite best attractions in Cook Forest.
Cook Forest State Park
Just a few minutes down the road, you will find the heart of the area. We love taking a quiet walk through the Forest Cathedral. It is home to massive, old-growth white pine and hemlock trees. Some of these trees are over 300 years old. Our guests always say that hiking here feels like stepping into another world.
- Ratings: 4.9/5
- Location: Leeper, PA 16233
- Contact: (814) 744-8407
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Learn more about Cook Forest State Park
The Clarion River
You cannot visit our area without seeing the river. The Clarion River is calm, clear, and perfect for families. You can rent tubes or just find a nice spot on the bank to skip rocks. We highly recommend that you plan a simple river afternoon with towels and water shoes.
💡 Fun fact: The Clarion River is known for its incredible wildlife. Keep your eyes open, and you might spot a bald eagle flying over the water.
MacBeth’s Store
This historic general store is right along the main road. It is a charming place to stop for souvenirs, cold drinks, or supplies. The store has been around for a very long time and still has a working old-fashioned phone booth outside. Our guests love the hometown feel and the friendly staff.
- Ratings: 4.7/5
- Location: 15361 PA-36, Cooksburg, PA 16217
- Contact: (800) 331-6319
Where to Eat After a Day of Play
When you are deciding where to eat in Cook Forest PA, you have some wonderful local options. After a busy day of go-karts and water slides, your family will want a hearty meal.
Trail’s End Restaurant
This cozy spot is a favorite for comfort food. Our guests frequently praise the huge portions and friendly service. It is casual enough for kids but offers great quality food for the adults. We personally love their French onion soup and steak options.
- Ratings: 4.5/5
- Price Level: Mid-range
- Location: 2738 Forest Rd, Cooksburg, PA 16217
- Hours: Open Friday and Saturday, 11 AM to 8 PM
- Insight: The restaurant can fill up fast around dinner time, so try to arrive a little early to grab a good table.
Learn more about Trail’s End Restaurant
Wrapping Up Your Perfect Family Vacation
A trip to the forest should be a mix of relaxing nature and exciting play. Cook Forest Fun Park gives your family the perfect chance to laugh, race, and splash together. Once the kids are happily worn out from the mini-golf and bumper boats, you can retreat back to the peace of the woods.
At Hemlock Haven Retreats, we are always ready to welcome you home after a busy day. Imagine ending your evening by a private campfire, listening to a babbling creek outside your luxury treehouse. If you are ready to book your escape, browse our unique properties and find the perfect spot for your family. We cannot wait to host you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cook Forest Fun Park?
The park is located at 2952 PA-36 in Leeper, Pennsylvania. It is situated right outside the main state park area, making it very easy to find.
What kind of park is Cook Forest?
Cook Forest State Park is an 8,500-acre natural space known for its towering old-growth trees and the scenic Clarion River. It is a peaceful place focused on hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.
What city is Cook’s Forest, PA in?
The forest spans across parts of Clarion, Forest, and Jefferson counties. The main areas and attractions are generally located around the small towns of Cooksburg, Leeper, and Lucinda.
What is there to do in Cook’s Forest?
There are activities for everyone. You can hike miles of beautiful trails, float down the Clarion River, visit the local Sawmill Center for the Arts, or enjoy go-karts and mini-golf at the nearby fun park.
How much does the fun park cost?
You can pay per ride or buy an all-day pass. Individual rides are usually a few dollars each. An unlimited pass is typically around $30 to $32, which is great if you plan to stay for several hours.
