Discover Round Hill Park
Round Hill Park, located in South Allegheny County near Elizabeth, is a unique blend of pastoral beauty and modern amenities. This expansive 1,101-acre county park presents a tranquil escape from city life while offering an educational experience through its working demonstration farm.
Round Hill Park is part of Allegheny County’s impressive 12,000-acre network of nine distinct parks. It’s positioned southeast of downtown Pittsburgh in Elizabeth Township, roughly 15 miles from the city center. The park’s location offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far from urban conveniences.
Notable Features
The park is best known for its working demonstration farm, a feature that distinguishes it from other parks in the county. The farm is open all year round, giving visitors an opportunity to explore and learn about farm life and the vital role it plays in our food and water cycles.
The Farm
The working farm is a primary attraction at Round Hill Park, drawing thousands of visitors, including school students on field trips, every year. It provides an interpretive program that revolves around the farm and the food and water cycles of life, offering a real-life educational experience for all ages.
Picnic Groves
The park features 17 distinctive picnic groves, each with a name inspired by the farm culture. For example, you’ll encounter names like Alfalfa, Timothy, Wagon Wheel, and Quiet Acres. These groves offer peaceful spots to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Sports Facilities and Trails
For those seeking physical activity, Round Hill Park also boasts soccer fields and extensive trails for walking and horseback riding. These amenities make the park a popular choice for sport and nature enthusiasts alike.
Services and Amenities
In addition to its farm, fields, and trails, Round Hill Park offers a variety of services and amenities to enhance the visitor experience.
Spray Park
One such feature is the spray park. This water play area is open from June through Labor Day, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., offering a fun and safe way for children to cool down during the hot summer months.
Shelters and Facilities for Rent
Round Hill Park provides various shelters and facilities available for rent. These include small shelters like Alfalfa, Harvest, and Quiet Acres, each with a capacity of 60 to 70 people. The park also offers medium shelters such as Meadow, which can accommodate up to 100 guests.
For events requiring electricity, the Blue Grass shelter is an ideal choice. The park also offers special facilities like the Visitor Center, which can house up to 60 people for private events or gatherings.
Projects and Initiatives
The Allegheny County Parks Foundation has undertaken several projects in Round Hill Park to enhance its features and preserve its natural beauty. Some of these initiatives include the creation of animal shelters, the installation of interpretative signage, and the development of the Visitor Center Rain Garden.
Nearby Attractions
Round Hill Park’s location in Allegheny County places it within proximity of several other notable attractions. Visitors can extend their trip to explore nearby parks such as Boyce Park, Deer Lakes Park, and Harrison Hills Park, among others.
Did You Know?
Round Hill Park offers a unique blend of nature and education. Its working farm supplements the park itself, providing an interactive experience that revolves around the farm and the vital water and food cycles of life. Additionally, the park’s picnic groves have farm-themed names, adding to the overall farm-centric atmosphere.
Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist in Allegheny County, Round Hill Park is a must-visit destination. Its blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and educational offerings make it a unique park that both entertains and enlightens. So why wait? Plan your visit to Round Hill Park today and experience the charm of this pastoral gem for yourself.
