French Creek in Pennsylvania

Trip Overview

French Creek in NW PA has been designated as one of the most biologically diverse waterways in North America. More importantly, it is a great place to kayak and canoe and offers scenic beauty and abundant wildlife.

From it's headwaters in NY state to the confluence with the Allegheny River in Franklin, PA; French Creek is one of those "special places" in PA. It is not uncommon to see eagles, osprey, heron and turkey if you are quiet.

There are rifles and rocks to play in and a wonderful class II hydraulic near Franklin to practice your whitewater skills. To gain more info, check out the French Creek Valley Conservancy web site.

We did a short trip from Utica to Franklin, but I really like the trip between Saegertown and Meadville PA.

Accommodations:

There are hotels in Franklin, Meadville and a quaint old hotel in Cambridge Springs aptly named "The Riverside Inn".

Check Meadville for Bed & Breakfast choices and of course, numerous private camp sites like the one in Utica, PA

Fees:

Some launch sites are PA State points that require a $15/yr. launch permit.

Not true of Utica, Meadville, Cambridge Springs and Rt.19 & 6N. at higher water levels you can kayak upper French Creek or take Leboeuf Creek to meet French Creek above RT, 6N

Directions:

You can access French Creek from State Rt. 322 north of Franklin,PA at Utica, Cochranton and Wilson's Chute just south of Meadville. North of Meadville, follow State RT. 19 to access at Saegertown, Cambridge Springs and The intersection of Rt. 19 and 6N.

Resources:

French Creek Valley Conservancy web site