Please note that this nature preserve is not a wildlife rehabilitation facility. Please reach out to Raven Ridge Wildlife Center or the Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators for assistance with matters pertaining to injured wildlife.
Ecology and Management
Upper Hopewell Forge Wildlife Sanctuary is managed for its habitat as being of highest and best use.
Upper Hopewell Forge is a riparian buffer squeezed into the shape of a triangle between three roads, including State Highway Rt. 322. As such, Upper Hopewell serves the important ecosystem functions of stormwater retention and filtration before it enters into Hammer Creek, a renowned cold-water fishery. Parking at Upper Hopewell serves as the northern terminus for the Conestoga Trail and junction of the east-west running Horseshoe Trail which also serves as the primary access for Rannels-Kettle Run Nature Preserve.
Watershed
Hammer Creek runs through the length of the Preserve on its way to Speedwell Forge Lake before emptying into the Conestoga River and furthermore into the Susquehanna River just beneath the Safe Harbor Dam.
Hunting Information
No Hunting; No Fishing.
Report Hunting Violations: PA Game Commission at 888-742-8001 or 610-926-3136
Acquisition History
The Lancaster County Historical Society donated the land that is now Upper Hopewell Forge Wildlife Sanctuary to the Conservancy in 1993.
Amenities
Parking. Preserve sign. Monument. Trail access to two regional trails.