Summary
Known as the ‘Keystone State’, Pennsylvania is a landlocked state located in the northeastern United States, characterized by the Appalachian Mountains that traverse its landscape. It shares borders with six other states and features 82 kilometers of coastline along Lake Erie.
Pennsylvania comprises a diverse array of cities, mountains, rivers, and valleys, complemented by numerous picturesque lakes. These bodies of water range from expansive lakes such as Lake Erie to smaller, tranquil lakes ideal for relaxation and enjoying stunning vistas.
Here are the premier lakes in Pennsylvania:
1. Lake Nockamixon
This breathtaking lake is encircled by rolling hills and lush greenery. It ranks as the largest lake in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and serves as the focal point of Nockamixon State Park.
Lake Nockamixon is highly regarded for fishing, with species such as walleye, bass, pickerel, and carp frequently caught. Furthermore, it is an excellent venue for picnicking, boating, and windsurfing, while the adjacent areas are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and hunting.
During the winter, Lake Nockamixon offers opportunities for ice skating and ice fishing, with Nockamixon State Park providing facilities for cross-country skiing and sledding. Swimming is prohibited in the lake; however, a public pool is available.
2. Marsh Creek Lake
Situated within Marsh Creek State Park, Marsh Creek Lake is a man-made body of water formed by the damming of the Marsh Creek River. It presents a serene environment surrounded by trees and beautiful landscapes.
Fishing is a popular activity at Marsh Creek Lake, where anglers can find largemouth bass, black crappie, channel catfish, and a variety of panfish. The lake is also an excellent location for sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Equipment rentals for boating and other water activities are available along the lake’s shoreline, alongside lessons for sailing, surfing, and other pursuits. Additionally, there are two boat launches at Marsh Creek Lake.
3. Gouldsboro Lake
The 100-hectare man-made lake is situated in Gouldsboro State Park within Coolbaugh Township. It is a favored destination for boating and fishing, with residents including pickerel, bass, yellow perch, and catfish.
Gouldsboro Lake is well-equipped for swimming, featuring a public beach open from Memorial Day until Labor Day. During winter, ice fishing is permitted; however, the ice thickness is not monitored.
The surrounding park boasts a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. Additionally, it features picnic areas and mountain biking trails.
4. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is Pennsylvania’s third-largest lake, featuring an 84-kilometer shoreline and a depth of 18 meters. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, it is a well-known vacation destination.
This lake serves as a prime location for recreation, with activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. In winter, ice skating and fishing contribute to its popularity, alongside an annual ‘Ice Tee Golf Tournament’.
The wooded shoreline surrounding the lake features ample hiking trails and rental cottages. Historically, Lake Wallenpaupack was inhabited by the Lenape Indians, who named the waterway ‘Wallenpaupack,’ meaning ‘The Stream of Swift and Slow Water.’
5. Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake is renowned for its tranquility and array of recreational activities. Visitors frequently engage in swimming, fishing, boating, and scuba diving, in this 33.6 square kilometer lake.
The site features 12 public access points, beaches, boat launches, picnic areas, and camping sites. The beautiful surrounding terrain is conducive to hiking and mountain biking.
The lake holds archaeological significance, with human remains unearthed that trace back up to 12,000 years ago. Presently, this site accommodates the Susquehannock Campground.
6. Shenango River Lake
Positioned in the Shenango River Valley of western Pennsylvania, Shenango River Lake is a reservoir encompassed by scenic landscapes. Established in 1965, this 1,440-hectare lake was primarily developed for flood mitigation.
Shenango River Lake attracts anglers with its diverse fish population, including bass, muskellunge, and walleye. Additionally, it offers ample camping opportunities, featuring over 300 campsites.
Facilities such as boat ramps, picnic areas, and playgrounds are readily available around the lake, along with the nearby Shenango Water Trail and Seth Myers and Coonie Trails.
7. Lake Ontelaunee
Established by damming Maiden Creek in 1926, Lake Ontelaunee is a reservoir located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. This 438-hectare reservoir ranks as the second largest in the state.
While boating and swimming are prohibited in Lake Ontelaunee, its shoreline remains popular for fishing. The lake is populated with an abundance of species, including panfish, common carp, largemouth bass, and white perch.
The surrounding woodlands provide a picturesque backdrop, making it an excellent location for hiking. Hunting is also prevalent in this area.
8. Kinzua Lake
Also referred to as the Allegheny Reservoir, Kinzua Lake is a man-made lake located approximately 319 kilometers above the river in Pittsburgh. Constructed in 1965 through the damming of the Kinzua River, this lake is enveloped by the Allegheny National Forest.
The surrounding forest not only offers breathtaking views but also facilitates various recreational pursuits, including hiking, camping, bird watching, and cross-country skiing.
Boaters and fishermen have access to the lake via a marina and numerous boat launches, in addition to two beach areas that offer opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
9. Lake Galena
Forming part of Peace Valley Park, Lake Galena is an attractive reservoir surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The park provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, while the lake is an ideal location for fishing, sailing, and canoeing.
During winter, Lake Galena becomes a favored destination for ice fishing and ice skating. In the warmer months, it supports a variety of activities, making it a year-round attraction.
Lake Galena was established in 1972 through the damming of the Neshaminy Creek. Prior to its creation, the area housed the mining village of Leven.
10. Rose Valley Lake
Rose Valley Lake is a reservoir located in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, spanning over 1.5 square kilometers, just east of Pennsylvania Route 14 and US Route 15.
This lake is administered by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, as it primarily serves as a venue for game fishing. Common fish species found include bluegill, largemouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and black crappie.
Visitors can fish at Rose Valley Lake throughout the year, including during the winter for ice fishing, though safety measurements regarding ice thickness are not guaranteed.
11. Dutch Springs
Situated north of Bethlehem, Dutch Springs is a spring-fed lake abundant in various fish species, including largemouth bass, yellow perch, koi, and bluegills. It is renowned for its exceptional recreational activities.
Since 1980, Dutch Springs has served as a significant recreational facility, featuring a water park, camping amenities, picnic areas, and numerous water sports. It is especially noted for scuba diving, with various submerged attractions at different depths.
Historically, the site was utilized for mining limestone and cement production. In 1970, the lake was filled, subsequently evolving into a diving facility.
12. Fairview Lake
Fairview Lake is a natural lake located in Palmyra Township, Pennsylvania. The serene lake is surrounded by trees and hills.
One distinctive feature of Fairview Lake is the ridge that runs through its center, where the water depth is approximately one meter. In contrast, the remainder of the lake boasts a depth of nearly 15 meters.
Fairview Lake is a premier fishing destination and is also popular for boating. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission manages a small public boat launch situated in the southwestern corner of the lake.
13. Stillwater Lake
Stillwater Lake is a reservoir situated 552 meters above sea level in the Pocono Summit area of Monroe County, Pennsylvania. This 127-hectare lake is fed by rivers, creeks, and underground springs, ultimately flowing into Lake Naomi.
The site originally served as a swamp before being designated for timber harvesting. It was later filled to facilitate the transport of timber to sawmills, subsequently evolving into a facility for ice production.
Presently, Stillwater Lake continues to produce ice while serving as a popular summer destination, featuring estates and vacation homes along its shoreline. It is also home to a camp that provides a range of recreational opportunities.
14. Ganoga Lake
This natural lake is among the highest in the state, sitting at 689 meters above sea level. It is situated in the Allegheny Plateau of southeastern Sullivan County.
Ganoga Lake is encircled by diverse flora and fauna, rendering it a significant ecological area, particularly for avian species. Additionally, the lake boasts an abundance of fish species, while visitors may encounter black bears, white-tailed deer, monarch butterflies, and hummingbirds in the vicinity.
The historical significance of Ganoga Lake is extensive, with its origins dating back to the Iroquoian-speaking Susquehannocks. After British occupancy, it was acquired by the Ricketts family. Currently, it is privately owned and frequented by windsurfers and kayakers, many of whom reside nearby.
