Ralph Stover State Park occupies a narrow gorge, plateau, and island along the Delaware River. Its location — 6011 State Park Road, Pipersville — is just close enough to be accessible but just far enough to provide a welcome break from a workweek of home-office-classroom captivity. Josh Popichak chronicled its springtime appeal in the Saucon Source.

Like much of Bucks County, much of the area’s lore is tied to the indigenous Lenni Lenape people. They called the local waterway “to-hick-hanne,” which eventually morphed into the label Tohickon Creek.

That stream’s tag eventually sparked the entire park’s name via Ralph Stover.

Stover, son of an 18th Century German immigrant, was a local Justice of the Peace and politician. He started a grist mill onsite, using the creek for power.

In 1931, a subsequent generation of the Stover family donated the plot to the state. An additional land donation — from author James A. Michener — added High Rocks to the existing real estate.

The geologic wonder is a 150-ft. sheer rock face that, today, is popular with rock climbers and boulderers. Reaching the top is challenging, but the views are spectacular.

The park offers a wide variety of environmental education and recreation programs year-round.

Through hands-on activities, guided walks, and evening programs, participants can develop a sense of stewardship toward natural and cultural resources.

More information on Ralph Stover State Park is at the Saucon Source.