Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Acting Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn Wednesday announced the department is upgrading its online system for Pennsylvania state park campsite, cabin and pavilion reservations.

"One of the key new features is the ability for customers to make a state park reservation on a mobile device," Dunn said. "Many people now seek information and make their travel plans on their smart phones and other devices. This upgrade fits nicely with Gov. Wolf's effort to highlight government that works, making it a better experience for our visitors to interact with DCNR when making plans to visit a state park."

The online reservation system was first launched in 2006. This update includes: Better campsite descriptions; Easier site navigation; An upgraded map view; Mobile reservation capabilities; Availability notifications; A simpler check out process; and Increased security.

Users can search for available campsites, picnic pavilions and other facilities on-line as well as make reservations at their convenience.

"Pennsylvania has 120 state parks that offer incredible activities to explore our rich legacy of forests, lakes, mountains, trails, wildlife and natural heritage," Dunn said. "With that many options there's something for everyone, and arranging an overnight stay is now even easier."

DCNR has a one-year contract with renewal options for an additional four years with ACTIVE Network for the cloud-based reservation system.

To make online reservations, park users should visit www.visitPAparks.com.  Online visitors can access the reservation system 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visitors can charge reservations with their credit cards. Reservations can be made up to 11 months prior to a planned arrival date.

Park visitors also may call the toll-free number 1-888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) to receive information and make reservations. This service is available Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for major holidays.

Pennsylvania's 120 state parks are open year round and attract about 38 million visitors a year. They offer about 6,200 campsites; 300 cabins; 91 camping and deluxe cottages; and 34 yurts.

Pennsylvania state parks generate more than $1 billion in economic activity in nearby communities and support almost 13,000 related jobs.

2/9/2015