Outdoor Things to Do in Venango County

The Allegheny River Trail is the crown jewel for cyclists and walkers, offering miles of flat, smooth, paved path from Oil City south toward Emlenton along a stretch of the Allegheny River. The river here is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, so expect beautiful water views, anglers, and paddlers along the way. A highlight is the Belmar Bridge, a former railroad bridge with sweeping views across the river.

From Franklin, the Samuel Justus Trail links into the Allegheny River Trail, letting you string together a longer riverside route between the towns. The paved surface stays gentle and easy, making it a great choice for families and casual riders who want river scenery without steep climbs. It's also a convenient way to travel between Franklin and Oil City under your own power.

Two Mile Run County Park in Oakland Township spreads across roughly 2,695 acres of mostly wooded land and centers on a 144-acre lake. The lake area offers swimming, boating, and fishing, with rental boats, a snack bar, and showers on site. Wooded campsites and rentable picnic pavilions make it an easy spot for a full day or an overnight in the outdoors.

For mountain bikers, Two Mile Run also delivers about 20 miles of trail built for two wheels, much of it challenging singletrack winding through the forest. The terrain mixes climbs, technical sections, and fast wooded stretches for riders looking to test themselves. It's a serious riding destination hiding within an otherwise laid-back county park.

Oil Creek State Park follows Oil Creek for more than 6,200 acres between Oil City and Titusville, with hiking trails and a paved bike path threading the historic valley. The setting blends quiet forest and creekside scenery with the lingering traces of the early oil industry, making every walk a little history lesson. Bring a picnic and plan to linger in one of the most storied landscapes in Pennsylvania.

With both the Allegheny River and French Creek meeting at Franklin, paddlers have easy access to calm, scenic water for kayaking and canoeing. Drifting downstream past wooded banks is one of the most relaxing ways to take in the region, and the gentle current suits casual paddlers. Pair a morning float with a riverside trail ride for a perfectly balanced outdoor day.