Anglers find excellent sport in many of the streams and lakes within the park boundaries, including Fourth Run and Sand Spring. These streams are stocked with trout. Mud Run, where fly fishing only is permitted, is stocked with brook and brown trout. In addition, the Lehigh River, which flows along the western boundary of the park, provides warm water game fish, trout and panfish. Francis Walters Dam, about 20 minutes from the park, provides boating and angling for trout and warm water game fish.
Ice skating is enjoyed by many visitors.
The park is part of an area acquired in a treaty with the American Indians. From 1790 to 1835 the Commonwealth sold warrants, for approximately 400 acres, to persons willing to pay for registration and survey work. After 1835, many lumber camps and villages were constructed. Near the junction of Sand Spring Run and Hickory Run the village of Hickory Run was established. The current park office and chapel are buildings remaining from this village.