Dauphin County sits in the center of the state along the Susquehanna River, built around Harrisburg, the state capital. Harrisburg is the county seat.
The riverfront and the State Capitol, with its grand tiled dome, define the city. Hershey, just to the east, brings the chocolate factory, the theme park, and a famous medical center.
The Appalachian Trail crosses the county's northern ridges, and the river offers easy paddling and fishing.
About 5% of homes in the Harrisburg-Carlisle area, which includes Dauphin County, heat with oil. Comparing local quotes is worth a look.