Baker Island regenerating after the May 31, 1985 tornado.

Roughly 139 Km. of the area known as the Allegheny River Islands Wilderness has received a National designation as a wild and scenic river area due to the unique ecological, recreational, and scenic areas along this river corridor.

Some of these areas may contain some of the only remaining old growth riparian forest (meaning forest that is located on the bank of a natural watercourse) in the Northeastern United States due to the uncommonly large size of the trees making up the overstory.  King Island is reported to have many trees which are 35-50 inches in diameter. Crull's Island has large old river bottom stands of willow, sycamore, and silver maple..

The unique habitats provided by the different Islands creates a refuge for many different and varied plant species.  For instance, a total of 50 herbs, 29 trees, and 4 shrub species were recorded for Hemlock and King Islands in 1996.  These Islands are a virtual refuge, as shown by the high number of species, for forest floor herbs.

Some history is also associated with these islands.  Thompson's island is historically significant since it is the site of the only Revolutionary War battle fought in northeastern Pennsylvania.  The history of these islands actually goes back before the Revolution since some of these islands were farmed by Native Americans.  As a more recent historical landmark, Baker Island serves as a showcase for the damage from one of two tornadoes which crossed the forest on May 31, 1985.  Most of it's trees were blown down in this storm.

 The scenic beauty of this area can best be appreciated during a summer canoe trip.  A number of companies offer canoe rentals and guided eco-tours some of which are posted on our business listings page.  Some of the other islands not previously mentioned include R. Thompson's Island, Courson Island (which can be viewed from the Tidioute Overlook), and No-Name Island. The Islands and surrounding areas may be camped on unless otherwise posted.