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Pennsylvania may be a landlocked state, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t home to some awesome beaches. Our many lakes and reservoirs grant us access to the water in a special way, especially the beautiful beaches along Lake Erie in Presque Isle State Park. But there are many more beaches at other lakes within the state’s borders. If you’re looking for ways to stay cool all summer long, head to one or more of the best beaches in Pennsylvania.
1. Black Moshannon State Park, Rush Township
The quaint beach at the 3,394-acre Black Moshannon State Park is located near the largest bog in Pennsylvania and surrounded by the greater 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest. Spend a day at the sandy beach, where you can drop your beach towel on the grass or the soft sand. The beach is open annually from mid-May to mid-September. For park hours, directions, and more, visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website.
2. Bald Eagle State Park, Centre County
The Joseph Foster Sayers Reservoir is a man-made lake located in central Pennsylvania’s Bald Eagle State Park. In fact, the massive lake spans 1,730 acres and boasts a beautiful sandy beach where you can kick back and relax. The 1,200-foot sandy beach also features such amenities as a snack bar, restrooms, changing rooms, and a playground. Visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website for more information on Bald Eagle State Park.
3. Presque Isle State Park, Erie
The 3,112-acre Presque Isle State Park, along Lake Erie, has not one but 11 beautiful beaches in Pennsylvania for you to enjoy. Each beach features different amenities, such as ample parking, lifeguards, volleyball courts, and restrooms. Presque Isle State Park’s sandy beaches are generally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and offer a wealth of opportunities to enjoy one of the state’s most magnificent parks along one of the country’s Great Lakes. Visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website for more on Presque Isle State Park beaches.
4. Poe Valley State Park, Penn
Poe Lake at Poe Valley State Park is a man-made lake that was created during the Great Depression. While swimming at this beach is entirely at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards, the deepest water is 5 feet. You’ll also have access to a snack bar that serves both hot and cold foods. The beach is typically open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day annually. This is one of the best lakes in Pennsylvania with beaches, so be sure to add it to your list this summer. Visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website for more information about one of the most pristine Pennsylvania lake beaches, including directions, activities, and events.
5. Beltzville State Park, Carbon County
Not pictured: the beach at the 3,002-acre Beltzville State Park. We promise it exists, though, all glistening 525 feet of sandy beach, complete with showers, a picnic pavilion, and a snack bar. If you prefer spending time on the water rather than in it, consider paddling on a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, or even waterskiing. Visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website for more on Beltzville State Park, one of the best Pennsylvania state park beaches, including hours of operation, park programs, and recreation.
6. Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach, Lebanon
Mt. Gretna is a gorgeous and, by all accounts, secret beach in Pennsylvania that often hosts events such as birthday parties and day camps. There is an admission fee, but it’s well worth it for the swimming and the scenery at this 8-acre beach destination. In addition to swimming, you can meander on the water on an inner tube, dive into the lake from several diving boards, and have a picnic under shady trees. Visit the Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach website for a list of amenities and current admission fees.
What do you think are the best beaches in Pennsylvania? Do you prefer going to large beaches like those at Presque Isle State Park or smaller ones tucked in other state parks? Share this article with someone you want to make a splash with this summer, and check out more Pennsylvania beaches that will keep you cool all season long!
