The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has several holiday gift-giving ideas perfect for those who want to protect Pennsylvania’s natural resources and enjoy state parks and forests.

Holiday gift-givers can support Pennsylvania’s 120 state parks by purchasing the 2014 special edition State Park calendar featuring state park seasonal scenes. The 10” x 13” calendar costs $8.49, plus sales tax and shipping, and can be ordered by calling 1-888-PAPARKS.

A state park gift card can be purchased in any dollar amount and may be used for campsites, cabins and pavilions. Parks are a great, inexpensive getaway and offer the opportunity to watch wildlife and connect with nature. To order a gift card, visit DCNR’s Gift Card webpage.

Recipients can use a gift card for a stay at the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle in Centre County. With its green features, huge stone fireplace, large windows for watching the outside world, and connection to miles of trails at Bald Eagle State Park, the Nature Inn is a year-round getaway.

Also, consider giving a gift that supports the non-profit PA Parks and Forests Foundation. PPFF helps enhance parks and forests, and supports conservation and environmental programs.

Visitors might enjoy the 135-page passport with maps, a history of the state park and forest system, and a brief description and most memorable feature of each state park and forest. PPFF has teamed up with Design a Tea to offer organic, fair trade teas available in both bags and loose leaf. Twenty-five percent of your total purchase will be returned to PPFF.

Supporting the Wild Resource Conservation Program is another gift option. Since 1982, the program has studied and worked to conserve Pennsylvania’s rare species and habitats. The Wild Resource Conservation Program also has a free 2014 Calendar available to download.

12/16/2013