Academics

Shaver’s Creek to close starting Sept. 5 to prepare for construction, renovation

Shaver's Creek will close starting Sept. 5 to prepare for major construction. Credit: Kimmel Bogrette. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center will be closed temporarily starting Sept. 5 to prepare for its major expansion and renovation project.

The outdoor education field lab and nature center in Petersburg, Huntingdon County, will undergo its first major facility upgrades in the center’s 40-year history. Shaver’s Creek will close at the end of the business day on Sunday, Sept. 4, and the visitor center will remain closed through most of 2017. The Fall Harvest and Maple Harvest festivals will not be held during construction.

“Shaver’s Creek has been connecting the community to the outdoor world for 40 years, and these improvements will help create more enriching and fulfilling memories for children, Penn State students and the community,” said director Mark McLaughlin. “We appreciate everyone’s patience during construction and, although disappointed that we won’t see as many smiling faces, are excited for the opportunities that await us when we re-open.” 

Select activities and limited programming will operate at the center through construction. Any potential visitors are asked to check ShaversCreek.org or call 814-863-2000 for the most up-to-date information.

Shaver’s Creek will continue to offer Penn State courses at the University Park campus, its traveling naturalist programs around the state, and team-building programs offsite.

Shaver’s Creek, which serves more than 60,000 people each year, is home to more than 35 credit-bearing courses in six colleges and nine departments. The center accommodates more than 1,300 Penn State students, 50,000 noncredit program attendees and nearly 9,000 visitors during the year.

The original building at Shaver’s Creek, which was founded in 1976, was built in 1938 as a forestry lodge for group functions and warm-weather instruction. Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center provides several resources for Penn State students and the community, including the environmental and raptor centers, outdoor school and public festivals.

Visit the Shaver's Creek website for more information about the construction project or how to contribute.

Last Updated August 29, 2016

Contact