Our Towns
609 Square Miles of Rural Americana
Clarion County is a place where small towns and communities line winding rivers, historic byways, and forested hills, carrying a warmth and familiarity that have defined the region for generations. Each community—from university-anchored Clarion to river towns like Foxburg and East Brady, and historic villages like New Bethlehem and Rimersburg—tells its own story, shaped by industry, resilience, and a deep respect for the land. Creative artisans, local farmers, and the communities that shape our main streets keep the county vibrant, blending tradition with innovation. Rooted in lumber, oil, and early settlement, our county today features independent shops, family-run restaurants, and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage.
Visitors come seeking a distinctive experience. Outdoor enthusiasts explore miles of green trails and waterways, the serene expanse of the Clarion and Allegheny Rivers, and Pennsylvania’s ancient Cook Forest. History lovers walk the same ground as early pioneers and oil-boom entrepreneurs, while all travelers—road-trippers and weekend wanderers alike—enjoy the peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that makes the county uniquely its own.
East Brady
Named after legendary frontiersman, Captain Samuel Brady, this river town is rich in natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the newly renovated 2,468-foot Brady Tunnel, as part of the Armstrong Trail, or soak in the stunning 1,500-foot-tall panoramic view at Brady’s Bend Overlook.
New Bethlehem
Established in 1853, the town sits at the junction of state routes 28 and 66. It boasts well-preserved historic buildings and hosts the annual Peanut Butter Festival, honoring its ties to industry.
Shippenville
Located minutes from I-80 and Downtown Clarion, Shippenville truly is the intersection between all regions of the county: its peaceful pastures, scenic rivers, jaw-dropping valleys, and historic forests. The town has plenty of camping spots, the Clarion Airport, and wine and brew options.
Leeper
Leeper is uniquely situated under 10 minutes west of Cook Forest State Park and just 15 minutes south of the Allegheny National Forest with the Rail 66 Country Trail running through it. In its environs, restaurants and boutique lodging are an added bonus to this picturesque village adjacent to the state’s largest national forest and region’s scenic state park.
Knox
Established in 1853, Knox is known for its small-town charm, agricultural heritage, and its annual Horsethief Festival, celebrating its rural history & traditions.
Cooksburg
Named for John Cook, who settled the area in 1828, his descendants played a key role in conservation efforts, leading to the establishment of Cook Forest as a state park in 1927. Nestled within the forest, the town attracts outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and avid kayakers eager to explore its wild waters, scenic landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
Fryburg
Today, Fryburg is a quaint town with an antique store, proximity to local Amish communities, and tight-knit spirit seen through its celebrations, like Mayfest.
Foxburg
Foxburg was founded in 1870 by the Fox family of Philadelphia. It’s home to the renowned Foxburg Country Club, established in 1887. This captivating riverside town exudes charm, heritage, and natural beauty. A premier destination, Foxburg boasts riverfront dining, an exquisite wine cellar, an inspiring art gallery, and a vibrant performing arts center. During the summer months, visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor adventures, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking both relaxation and recreation.
Clarion
As the county seat and Autumn Leaf Capital, Clarion was incorporated in 1841 and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for its events. PennWest Clarion University brings a dynamic academic and cultural presence to the town, while the Clarion Courthouse stands as an iconic architectural landmark on Main Street.