Middle Paxton Township offers an outdoorsy lifestyle near Harrisburg
Hugging the curving banks of the Susquehanna River and established in 1787, Middle Paxton Township is one of the oldest townships in Dauphin County. The enclave surrounds the smaller borough of Dauphin and includes four parallel mountain ridges that provide scenic views and a secluded feel. “It appeals to families and retirees because of its slow pace. If you like space and nature, then that’s what Middle Paxton Township offers,” says Beth Boers, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty, who’s a lifelong resident of the region. “It’s also close to Harrisburg, so if you like the outdoors, it’s rural, but it’s not that far to the city for employment, hospitals and state government.” The capital city is less than 15 miles away.
Homes range from modest ranches to custom Victorian-style builds
Single-family homes in Middle Paxton Township rest along winding rural roads. Some properties are surrounded by trees, while others face farmland. Dauphin offers some walkability, with homes sitting close together on sidewalk-lined streets. Architecture ranges widely around the township, ranging from ranch-style homes, bungalows and farmhouses to brick traditional homes and sprawling custom builds with Victorian-inspired towers. While many homes fall between $160,000 and $630,000, particularly large homes and those properties with significant acreage can start around $650,000 and can exceed $800,000. Potential buyers should note that properties typically have private wells and septic tanks, as the township is not connected to municipal utility services. With several creeks and many acres of forest, flooding and wildfires are possible.
Students can attend highly rated public and private schools
The Central Dauphin School District earns a B-plus overall rating from Niche. With around 12,000 students across 19 schools, it is the 8th largest school district in Pennsylvania. Three schools serve Middle Paxton Township: the B-rated Middle Paxton Elementary, the B-rated Central Dauphin Middle and the A-minus-rated Central Dauphin High, which offers a bocce ball program in addition to traditional sports. Private schools are nearby in Harrisburg, including the A-minus-rated Covenant Christian Academy.
Middle Paxton Township is an outdoorsman’s playground
With expansive conservation areas and several parks, much of Middle Paxton Township is green space. Detweiler Park features over 7 miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats, making it popular for birdwatchers. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail crosses the township along the ridge of Peter’s Mountain. Hunting and fishing are common activities at Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area. More hunting areas are available nearby at State Game Lands No. 211. The sports-focused Hagy Park offers athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, as well as a reservable pavilion for private events. Dauphin Middle Paxton Community Park has similar amenities and an outdoor pool. Historic landmarks dot Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, which has a boat ramp to access the Susquehanna River for boating, kayaking and fishing. The township is home to the Country Club of Harrisburg, where golfers can enjoy a private 18-hole course with mountain views.
Residents shop and dine in Harrisburg and nearby townships
The few businesses in Middle Paxton Township dot state Route 225. A locally owned hardware store sits beside Red Raven, a seafood market with a restaurant inside that’s known for its surf and turf. Dauphin has a pizza joint and a tavern-style restaurant with views of Stoney Creek. However, Boers says residents typically head into Harrisburg to dine out at trendy restaurants and shop at various boutiques. U.S. Route 22 in Lower Paxton Township is one of several commercial corridors within reach, where national retailers and chain grocery stores fill malls and shopping centers.
Family-friendly fun at the Dauphin-Middle Paxton Lions Club’s Carnival
Area churches and organizations host community events throughout the year in Middle Paxton Township. One of the biggest annual events is the Dauphin-Middle Paxton Lions Club’s Carnival, which is held over five days in July. In addition to classic carnival rides, games, vendors and food, there’s live music and a fireworks show. The summertime tradition goes back more than six decades.
Highway access makes for short commutes to Harrisburg
With winding mountain roads, Middle Paxton Township is primarily car-dependent. Commuters have access to U.S. Route 22 to reach Downtown Harrisburg, about 13 miles away. Interstate 81 is one of several major highways nearby. Rabbit Transit buses pick up riders at the township’s park-and-ride lot. Harrisburg International Airport is less than 25 miles away. Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center is the nearest hospital, about 15 miles away.
