Springfield Falls
Pennsylvania • 20 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Springfield Falls
Springfield Falls tumbles about 20 feet along Hunters Run in western Pennsylvania, tucked into the northern portion of State Game Lands #284. Hunters Run is a tributary to Neshannock Creek, and the falls mark a scenic spot where the stream approaches that larger waterway. The surrounding watershed is roughly 60% forested and 32% agricultural, so the cascade is framed by a mix of wooded canopy and open fields that make spring greens and autumn colors particularly striking for photographers and day hikers alike. The setting feels intimate but rugged — a popular local destination for those who enjoy short outings into nature. While there isn’t a developed campground within 10 km, the nearest developed camping and day-use facilities at Shenango Lake (Clark Picnic Shelter) are about 23.6 km away, so most visitors treat Springfield Falls as a half-day or day-trip stop from nearby towns.
The Setting
Springfield Falls sits at 1,165 feet in the foothills of Pennsylvania. The falls drop 20 feet.
Height: 20 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route follows natural footpaths through mixed forest and open areas within State Game Lands #284 and leads directly to a viewing area for the 20-foot cascade. Terrain can be uneven and may include roots, rocks, and short, steeper pitches—sturdy footwear and steady footing are recommended for the descent to the streamside viewing spots.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 20 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Springfield Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Springfield Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to the vibrant foliage and higher water flow. Summer is also pleasant, but the water flow may be lower.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the falls can be slippery, especially after rain. Exercise caution and avoid climbing on wet or unstable surfaces. Be mindful of traffic when parking along the roadside.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Muddy Creek, 13.2 miles away, not on Springfield Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
9 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 57 years of record
1.52 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Muddy Creek near Portersville, PA (21 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
9 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
9 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid December to mid January, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Volant hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 46 feet of drop through Springfield Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. That is more than the listed 20 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 1,165 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 57 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 69 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,165 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 46 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Springfield Falls is located near the town of Mercer, Pennsylvania. It can be accessed via Leesburg Station Road, with a short walk from the roadside to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should park carefully to avoid obstructing traffic.
Elevation
1,165 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.142282° N, -80.217840° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be uneven. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Wingate by Wyndham Grove City
Super 8 by Wyndham Grove City
Holiday Inn Express Grove City - Premium Outlet Mall by IHG
Quality Inn & Suites Grove City-Outlet Mall
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Shenango Lake Clark Picnic Shelter
14.6 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Situated within the suburban Shenango Valley, Shenango Lake provides an attractive setting where visitors can spend the day picnicking, camping, fishing, boating, or enjoying nature's beauty at one of the lake's many recreation areas. The Clark Recreation Day Use Area is located just off of Route 18 on Route 258 in Clark, PA, and provides one covered group picnic shelter (Clark Shelter) with electric as well as access to the lake to go fishing and boating. Recreation Come explore and enj
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include McConnells Mill State Park and Moraine State Park, both offering additional hiking and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area around Springfield Falls is home to various bird species, small mammals, and occasional deer sightings.
Cities near Springfield Falls
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