Harrisburg, PA – Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today announced the appointment of Chelsea DePoe to serve as the manager for the Colonel Denning State Park Complex in Cumberland and Perry counties.
“Chelsea has demonstrated a strong dedication and commitment to public service, and we are happy to have her leadership at the Colonel Denning Complex,” Dunn said. “Her passion for nature will be a tremendous asset to the community around the park complex.”
DePoe oversees the 273-acre Colonel Denning State Park, which serves as a gateway to the 96,000-acre Tuscarora State Forest. Noted for its beautiful woodlands and 3.5-acre lake, the scenic and historic public lands offer myriad opportunities for outdoor recreation. The complex also includes the 45-acre Big Spring and 104-acre Fowlers Hollow state parks.
“We are all a part of nature. These parks provide peaceful opportunities to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and remind people of our connection to nature,” DePoe said. “I am eager to share the history of this wonderful complex and I look forward to building connections with park visitors and supporters alike.”
A Benton, Pennsylvania native, DePoe grew up visiting Ricketts Glen State Park, laying the foundation for her love of the outdoors. She earned her undergraduate degree in Parks, Tourism, and Recreation Management from the University of Montana.
DePoe’s time with DCNR began as a park ranger trainee at Ricketts Glen, prior to working at Delaware Canal as a ranger. She moved to the park manager trainee program to spend more time with her family and to help solve problems as a leader.
Visit DCNR’s website for more information about Colonel Denning State Park or call 717-776-5272 for assistance.
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