We are lucky to have so many great creeks in the Pittsburgh region where kids can splash and play -- and you can feel good about your kids becoming one with nature.
Here are six of my family's favorite creeks in and around the Robinson area to visit. Don't see your family's favorite Pittsburgh creek here? Drop me a note at emilyp@macaronikid.com and I'll add it to our list!
Put on a swimsuit, bring shoes good for creek walking, and don't forget snacks and sunscreen before heading out to any of these Pittsburgh creeks! And remember, always watch your kids in water — no matter how shallow it is!
Waterfall Trail at Settlers Cabin Park
Settlers Cabin Park offers a well maintained, shade covered trail with a small waterfall and creek at the bottom where your kids can splash and play. Pack a lunch and enjoy it at the picnic table next to the falls. To get to the waterfall, park at the end of Tepee Drive near the dog park and enter at the trailhead. The waterfall is about a half mile walk downhill, make sure you stay straight on the trail. Settlers Cabin Park is open daily from 8am to sunset.
Chartiers Creek at Thornburg Park
Chartiers Creek at Thornburg Park offers two public parks with playgrounds, basketball hoop, tennis courts ball field and shelter. Dogs are allowed in the park by permit only but are prohibited on Wednesday's and Sundays.
Chartiers Creek at Meyer & Middleton Park
Meyer & Middleton Park in Crafton hosts a fantastic baseball field which behind it, you will find access to Chartiers Creek. Explore the waterline and follow the creek under tall tunnel ways.
Cross Creek Lake at Cross Creek County Park
Cross Creek County Park located in Avella is one of my favorite hidden gems (you can check out one of our family visits here). This park has a creek that runs right through the park, playgrounds, bike trails, the lake, kayaking and clean bathrooms! WIN!!
Raccoon Creek at Raccoon Creek State Park
As a Pittsburgh family favorite, Raccoon Creek State Park is worth the drive for so much more than the creek. This is one of the most perfect hiking adventures, whether it's in the fall to see the changing leaves or in the summer to walk through the wildflower preserve. If the weather is nice, bring more than your hiking boots because you might want to extend your water play on to the beach right here in Pennsylvania!
Panhandle Trail in Carnegie
Parking for the Panhandle trail is at 73 Sunnyside Ave and will put you in the prime place for your water play. Creeks, waterfalls, and Mother Nature. Spend the whole day on the trail or pack a picnic for the nearby park.
Looking for more creeks? Head over to the South Hills for 7 More Creeks for Your Kids to Splash In or find 5 Creeks in the City of Pittsburgh for your Kids to Splash in here!
