Warwick Furnace Ruins & Cannon

In 2015, the French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust permanently protected the 553-acre Warwick Furnace Farm through conservation easements and the acquisition of 108 acres. The ruins of the Warwick Furnace are owned and maintained by the French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust as part of the Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve.

In the spring of 2022, four Warwick Furnace cannon were unearthed near the French Creek. The cannons were each more than 7 feet long, over 4,500 pounds, and made to fire 18-pound cannonballs. Two of the cannons were found with cannonballs still in their barrels. One cannon is on display on the grounds.

  • A scenic landscape photograph of a grassy meadow with the French Creek winding through it, surrounded by dense green trees under a blue sky with soft pink and white clouds.

Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve

The Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve protects woods, meadows, and wetlands. Opened to the public in 2019, this biodiverse preserve features more than 3 miles of looped and connector trails through rolling, varied terrain and offers beautiful vistas in every season. The Preserve encompasses a mosaic of habitats that support a wide range of plants and wildlife:

  • Forests: Mature oak, maple, beech, and understory shrubs
  • Meadows: Seasonal wildflowers, milkweed, monarchs, and grassland species
  • Wetlands: Frogs, salamanders, dragonflies, and wetland plants
  • Wildlife: Deer, foxes, small mammals, and a remarkable diversity of birds
  • Birding: Warblers, thrushes, woodpeckers, raptors, meadow birds, and more. Recognized as a Birding Hot Spot by the Valley Forge Audubon Society, the Preserve currently has 144 documented bird species. This rich habitat provides exceptional opportunities for bird watchers, hikers, families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.
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Key Trails

  • Waters Way Trail (Green Trail) Scenic route through sensitive wetland habitats. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. Ideal for quiet wildlife observation and serene views.
  • Meadow & Woodland Loops Dog-friendly trails (leashed) through open meadows and shaded woodlands. Great for casual hiking and bird watching.
  • Historic Furnace Out-And-Back Connects visitors to the ruins of Warwick Furnace.
Learn More About the Preserve