Covering more than 500,000 acres of land, the Allegheny National Forest provides a wealth of activities for campers, hikers and those who wish to enjoy the natural wonder of the outdoors. Sixteen campgrounds exist within the Allegheny National Forest, as well as the Twin Lakes recreational area, which includes a fishing pier and a swimming area. Of particular interest is Jake's Rocks, an expanse of bedrock overlooking the Allegheny river and Kinzua Dam from an awe-inspiring 2,000 feet.
Located only three miles from Nebraska, the Tionesta Lake is a flood control project for the Allegheny and Ohio rivers instituted by the U.S. Corps of Engineers. Tionesta Launch provides a boat ramp for boaters and jet skiers as well as a marina, while the adjoining recreation area is home to lakeside campsites, a playground and scenic hiking trails. Of particular interest is the restaurant that lies near the Tionesta Dam -- a rolled earth dam that towers over 150 feet above the stream bed.
Located 17 miles from Nebraska in the neighboring town of Tionesta, the Sherman Memorial Lighthouse is located on what is now known as Lighthouse Island, a small 22-acre island in the Allegheny River. The lighthouse was built by a local businessman named Jack Sherman in honor of his family. The fully functional lighthouse is open to visitors and includes a spiral staircase that leads up the tower to the lantern room. The lighthouse is a one-of-a-kind structure built of timber and vertical beams as opposed to traditional masonry and concrete and serves as a museum of family memorabilia, as well as a showcase for Sherman's extensive collection of lighthouse replicas.
Situated 20 miles from Nebraska in the neighboring town of Titusville, the Drake Well Museum is dedicated to the work of Edwin L. Drake who ushered in the modern petroleum industry by drilling the country's first oil well. The museum is open to the public and features tours and exhibits as well as working oil machinery. The museum also features a working replica of the Drake Oil Well and a library and photo collection of over 2,000 titles and 10,000 images, all detailing the oil industry. The museum is located close to the Oil Creek State Park and the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad.
