In 1989, a group of concerned Annville citizens approached the Annville Township
commissioners with the impending problem of misuse of an abandoned quarry located
along the Quittapahilla Creek. A land fill was being formed in what is now determined
to be a wetland are. Interest was spurred to use the approximately 23 acre woodland
area and quarry as a passive recreation area for the citizens of Annville and the
surrounding communities. This site supports shallow pond flora and fauna and is
a nesting site for ducks. Long established paths intersect the area connecting it
with three major Annville neighborhoods. Other features which make the area unique
are: the foundation of a mill at the site of a former bridge--both destroyed during
Hurricane Agnes; a huge lime hill (the remains of a limestone operation): and the
presence of a restored trout stream. The fact that the township owned the land,
which could be utilized for the citizens of Annville, prompted the Quittie Park
Committee, under the auspices of the Friends of Old Annville, to request a resolution
from the township Authority to approve proceedings to create the "Quittie Creek
Nature Park." See the map
for details about the park.
The nature park is a favorite spot for trout fisherman, artists and bird watchers.
The walkers find much pleasure in the scenery along the creek, which is the home
to a pair of herons, the kingfisher and many other birds . Wildflowers are abundant
in the spring and fall. The park is part of a larger watershed that is monitored
by the
Quittapahilla Watershed Association.
A pedestrian bridge across the creek was erected during the fall of 2007, connecting
Annville and South Annville Township. The construction of the bridge was carried
out under the Transportation Enhancement Program of PENNDOT and with grant support
from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. Additional funds were
received through private donations to the Quittie Creek Nature Park.
Current Seasonal Activities
A pumpkin walk is held in October from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. Rain or Shine. It is for
young children from 4 to 12. All children must be accompanied by a parent. It is
free for the community but donations are welcome and go to the upkeep of the park.
"Let every man praise the bridge that carries him over” English Proverb