Attractions and Places To See in Venango County - Top 8

At the southern trailhead of the Gerard Hiking Trail, the historic site of Petroleum Center marks what was once a bustling 19th‑century oil boomtown. Today, hikers can explore a self-guided interpretive trail featuring a boardwalk, informative signs, and the only visible remnant—a set of bank steps—from the town’s heyday. The trail winds through a wooded gorge, crosses Oil Creek via a pedestrian bridge, and passes modern replicas of oil derricks and foundations scattered across the hillside. Interpretive panels along the route connect you with stories of early oil entrepreneurs, rise‑and‑fall boomtown life, and the transformation of this valley into a forested state park. Restrooms, water access, and a visitor center are also available at the park office.

From this ridgeline viewpoint, hikers can spot a series of replica oil derricks tucked into the treeline across the valley. These reconstructions represent real 19th-century oil ventures like Great Lakes Petroleum and Ayers & Ashenhurst, a nod to the boomtown era that once defined this landscape. It’s a rare and fascinating blend of nature and history—quiet forested hills now reclaiming a place that helped ignite the world’s first oil rush.

This peaceful spot offers a sweeping ridgeline view across the forested slopes of Oil Creek State Park. From here, you can look out toward the opposing hillside, where a patchwork of pine and deciduous trees frames the landscape. Especially stunning in the morning light, it’s a great place to pause, catch your breath, and appreciate the rolling terrain that defines this section of the Gerard Trail.

Cow Run Shelter is one of two designated overnight areas along the Gerard Hiking Trail. It features tent sites and 6 Adirondack-style shelters, each equipped with a fireplace. The site includes seasonal water access and restrooms, and camping is only permitted in designated areas. Nestled deep in Oil Creek State Park, it’s a quiet, forested spot perfect for resting after a long day’s hike. Reservations are required in advance—check the website for details and booking instructions: https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1743343&DocName=OICR_ReservationInstructions.pdf

Just a short detour from the Gerard Trail, the Drake Well Museum marks the birthplace of the modern petroleum industry. Here in 1859, Edwin L. Drake drilled the world’s first successful oil well, launching a global energy revolution. The park features a working replica of the original well, indoor exhibits on early oil production, and a scenic walking path along Oil Creek. It’s a rewarding stop for history buffs and curious hikers alike—offering both a cultural deep dive and a peaceful break under shady trees.

Nestled in the western arm of Oil Creek State Park, Wolfkiel Run offers six Adirondack-style shelters with stone fireplaces, raised platforms, picnic tables, and 10 shared tent sites. Each shelter accommodates up to four people, and campers share a central fire ring and pit toilets. Seasonally available water and firewood (donations requested) are provided. Reachable by a short (~0.8 mile) walk from the trail parking, this shelter area blends solitude, comfort, and access to the nearby creek and historic route remnants.

Near this stretch of the Gerald Hiking Trail, you’ll pass remnants of Historic Washington Street—once part of a company town that supported the bustling oil industry in the region. Just off the path, you’ll also find the site of the former Buffalo Bakery, which served workers and residents during the boom. While little remains, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial past and a quiet reminder of the communities that once thrived here.

This junction marks your option to branch off the main Gerard Hiking Trail and descend toward Oil Creek via the West Side Trail. Take this spur for access to the historic swinging bridge, a beloved photo spot that sways gently over Oil Creek, offering scenic views and a touch of adrenaline. The trail also passes remnants of old oil wells and industry ruins—key markers in the story of Pennsylvania’s oil boom. It’s a rewarding detour for history buffs and creekside explorers alike.