14 Best Lakes in Pennsylvania
Imagine a world where the shimmering surface of a lake reflects boundless adventure, peaceful serenity, or thrilling watersports. That world isn’t a distant fantasy; it’s right here in Pennsylvania, a state surprisingly rich with stunning freshwater gems. From the sprawling, activity-packed expanses of the Poconos to the quiet, hidden havens nestled in state forests, Pennsylvania’s lakes offer an incredible escape for every type of traveler. You’ll discover crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, vast stretches ideal for sailing, and tranquil coves teeming with fish.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush on a jet ski, a peaceful paddle in a kayak, or simply a scenic spot for a picnic with loved ones, these 14 best lakes in Pennsylvania promise unforgettable memories. To truly embrace the beauty and diversity, plan your visit between late spring and early fall, when the weather is warm and all activities are in full swing. For fewer crowds and vibrant foliage, consider a trip in early autumn. Get ready to dive into the heart of Pennsylvania’s aquatic wonders!
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $40-80 (campgrounds, basic motels) | $100-200 (3-star hotels, B&Bs, cabin rentals) | $250-500+ (resorts, premium lodges) |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $20-40 (groceries, fast food, picnics) | $50-80 (casual restaurants, diners) | $100-150+ (upscale dining, specialty meals) |
| Transportation (per day) | $10-20 (limited local bus if available) | $40-80 (car rental, fuel) | $80-120+ (premium car rental, extensive travel) |
| Activities & Attractions (average) | $5-15 (state park entry, basic rentals) | $20-50 (boat rentals, guided tours) | $60-150+ (specialized tours, watersports packages) |
| Total Daily Budget | $75-155 | $210-410 | $490-920+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $525-1085 | $1470-2870 | $3430-6440+ |
Lake Nockamixon
Nestled in Bucks County, this expansive lake is a true haven for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts, distinguishing itself with a strict 20 horsepower motor limit that ensures peaceful, wind-powered recreation. The calm waters and consistent breezes make it one of the premier spots in the Mid-Atlantic for these activities. Beyond the thrill of the sails, you can explore miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, biking, or even disc golf.
While swimming isn’t permitted in the lake itself, a large public pool is available during the summer months for cooling off. Its vast open spaces and diverse recreational offerings make it an ideal destination for active families, couples seeking a tranquil escape, and solo adventurers looking to connect with nature. The lake was formed in the early 1970s, transforming a valley into a vital recreational area for southeastern Pennsylvania.
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Marsh Creek Lake
Located in Chester County, this lake is the centerpiece of Marsh Creek State Park, offering a vibrant blend of active recreation and peaceful natural observation. What makes it truly special is its accessibility from Philadelphia and its dedication to a wide range of water activities. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards and explore its extensive coves, or even try your hand at sailing from the park’s boat rental facilities.
Fishing is popular here, with ample opportunities for bass and crappie. Beyond the water, a network of multi-use trails winds through the surrounding woodlands, perfect for hiking, biking, or even horseback riding. It’s a fantastic spot for families with children, nature photographers, and anyone looking for a dynamic outdoor experience close to urban centers. The park also hosts a nature center, providing educational programs about the local ecosystem.
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Gouldsboro Lake
Tucked away in the Pocono Mountains, this lake offers a quintessential state park experience with a touch of tranquil charm. What sets it apart is its beautiful sandy swimming beach, making it a perfect destination for families with young children or anyone looking for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. The lake strictly allows only electric motor boats, ensuring a peaceful environment free from the roar of powerful engines.
This makes it ideal for quiet fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can spend hours exploring the calm waters, trying to catch bass or pickerel, or simply relaxing on the shore. Surrounding the lake are easy walking trails and picnic areas, inviting you to connect with the serene forest environment. It’s a wonderful spot for those seeking a laid-back day in nature, away from the hustle and bustle.
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Lake Wallenpaupack
As the second-largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, this sprawling body of water in the Pocono Mountains is a powerhouse of recreation, offering something for everyone. Its sheer size and depth, created for hydroelectric power, contribute to its diverse appeal. You can indulge in high-octane watersports like jet skiing, water skiing, and parasailing, or opt for a more leisurely experience on a scenic boat tour.
Fishing is phenomenal, with a wide variety of species. The lake is ringed by public access points, campgrounds, and marinas, making it easy to launch your own boat or rent one. Beyond the water, you’ll find hiking trails, charming lakeside towns like Hawley, and opportunities for mini-golf and other family fun. It’s an ideal destination for families, large groups, and anyone looking for a comprehensive lake vacation with endless activities.
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Raystown Lake
Often hailed as Pennsylvania’s “Jewel of the Alleghenies,” this lake is the largest lake entirely within the state and a true outdoor wonderland. Its deep, clear waters are surrounded by 120 miles of pristine forested shoreline, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring a natural and undeveloped feel. It’s renowned for its exceptional striped bass fishing, attracting serious anglers from across the region.
But the allure extends far beyond fishing; you can rent a houseboat for a unique multi-day adventure, explore an extensive network of world-class mountain biking trails (Allegrippis Trails), or discover hidden coves by kayak. Scuba diving is also popular, thanks to the lake’s clarity and submerged attractions. This destination is perfect for serious outdoor adventurers, large families, and anyone seeking an immersive natural experience away from urban sprawl.
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Shenango River Lake
Located in Mercer County, this lake is a sprawling reservoir managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, distinctive for its extensive wetlands and reputation as a prime birdwatching destination. Unlike some of the more bustling lakes, it offers a quieter, more relaxed boating experience, with no horsepower restrictions but plenty of space to spread out. Anglers will find excellent opportunities for walleye, bass, and catfish.
The surrounding areas include a mix of open water, forested shores, and marshlands, providing diverse habitats for wildlife. Beyond fishing and boating, visitors can enjoy hiking along designated trails and even hunting in specific zones during regulated seasons. It’s an ideal spot for serious bird watchers, anglers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day on the water or a chance to observe nature in a less-developed setting.
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Lake Ontelaunee
This lake in Berks County holds a unique place on our list because, while stunningly beautiful, it serves as the primary water supply for the city of Reading, meaning direct public water access is strictly prohibited. You won’t be swimming, boating, or fishing here. However, what makes it special is its designation as an important bird sanctuary and a fantastic spot for land-based nature observation.
The perimeter roads offer scenic drives and opportunities for walking or biking, providing breathtaking views of the expansive lake and its abundant birdlife. You can spend hours identifying various waterfowl, raptors, and migratory birds. It’s an absolute must-visit for birders, nature photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic drive or walk in a natural setting. It’s a testament to how a lake can be enjoyed even without stepping into its waters.
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Kinzua Lake
Part of the vast Allegheny National Forest, this immense reservoir, also known as the Allegheny Reservoir, is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder spanning parts of Pennsylvania and New York. What makes it unique is its sheer scale, deep waters, and the dramatic backdrop of the Kinzua Dam, one of the largest dams in the United States. You can enjoy expansive boating, excellent fishing for walleye and northern pike, and designated swimming beaches.
The surrounding national forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, including black bears and elk. A visit to the Kinzua Dam Visitor Center provides fascinating insights into its history and construction. It’s an ideal destination for serious campers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates vast, untamed wilderness and monumental engineering.
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Lake Galena
Located within Peace Valley Park in Bucks County, this lake is a tranquil oasis known for its peaceful, non-motorized boating and exceptional birdwatching opportunities. What makes it unique is its serene atmosphere and the surrounding nature preserve, which is home to the Peace Valley Nature Center. You can rent sailboats, kayaks, or paddleboards and gently glide across the water, enjoying the quietude.
Fishing is also popular, with plenty of bass and panfish. Miles of paved and unpaved trails loop around the lake, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot a wide array of migratory birds. It’s an ideal destination for families with young children, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the convenience of southeastern Pennsylvania.
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Rose Valley Lake
Nestled in Lycoming County, this lake is a hidden gem primarily celebrated for its exceptional warmwater fishing. What makes it unique is its reputation among anglers for abundant bass, crappie, and bluegill, making it a popular spot for both casual and serious fishermen. The lake allows only electric motor boats, ensuring a quiet and undisturbed fishing experience.
You can spend a relaxing day casting your line from a small boat or from the shore, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. In the winter, it transforms into a popular ice fishing destination. Surrounded by lush woodlands, the lake provides a tranquil setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and simply enjoy the quiet pursuit of fishing or a gentle paddle. It’s a perfect spot for anglers of all skill levels, quiet paddlers, and anyone seeking a calm, natural retreat.
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Dutch Springs
This unique attraction in Northampton County is not a natural lake but a former quarry transformed into a world-renowned aquatic playground, particularly famous among scuba divers. What makes it truly special are the incredible underwater attractions, including sunken planes, trucks, a school bus, and even a helicopter, providing an unparalleled diving experience for all skill levels. While its popular water park portion has transitioned, Dutch Springs remains a premier destination for divers and snorkelers.
Beyond diving, the surface offers opportunities for paddleboarding and kayaking. It’s a must-visit for certified scuba divers looking for an extraordinary underwater adventure, and for those interested in unique aquatic recreation. The clear, spring-fed waters ensure excellent visibility for exploring the submerged relics.
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Fairview Lake
Nestled in Pike County, this pristine, spring-fed lake is known for its exceptionally clear waters and tranquil, largely private setting. What makes it unique is its status as a natural glacial lake, resulting in very deep and clear conditions, making it an excellent habitat for fish, particularly trout. While much of the shoreline is privately owned, there is a public access point managed by the PA Fish and Boat Commission for launching non-motorized or electric motor boats.
This limited public access ensures a peaceful experience, primarily for anglers and quiet paddlers. It’s not a destination for bustling beaches or large motorboats, but rather for those seeking a serene fishing spot or a calm paddle amidst beautiful natural scenery. It’s ideal for serious anglers, nature photographers, and individuals seeking solitude.
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Stillwater Lake
Located in Monroe County within the scenic Pocono Mountains, this lake offers a quiet, natural escape, primarily appealing to anglers and those seeking a peaceful paddle. While much of its shoreline is privately developed, there is a designated public access point managed by the PA Fish and Boat Commission, allowing for the launch of non-motorized boats and electric motor boats.
What makes it unique is its reputation as a good fishing lake, particularly for bass and panfish, set against a backdrop of lush woodlands. It’s a less-trafficked alternative to the larger, more commercial Pocono lakes, providing a sense of solitude and a closer connection to nature. This destination is perfect for a quiet day of fishing, a serene canoe trip, or simply enjoying the tranquil forest atmosphere away from the crowds.
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Ganoga Lake
Perched at the highest elevation of any lake in Pennsylvania, this natural glacial lake in Luzerne County is renowned for its pristine beauty and unique ecological significance. While Ganoga Lake itself is largely private, with very limited public access, its prominence stems from its natural origins and its close proximity to the stunning Ricketts Glen State Park and Lake Jean, which offers full public access. It’s a testament to the wild, untouched beauty of Pennsylvania’s landscape.
Visitors can appreciate the surrounding untouched forests and the sense of remoteness it embodies, even if direct access is restricted. For those wishing to experience a high-elevation glacial lake, nearby Lake Jean in Ricketts Glen State Park provides an excellent public alternative with swimming, boating, and fishing. This lake is best appreciated by those who value natural history and pristine, high-altitude ecosystems, even if only from a distance or through its publicly accessible neighbors.
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Plan Your Visit
And there you have it – a captivating journey through Pennsylvania’s magnificent lake country! From the windsurfing mecca of Lake Nockamixon to the serene fishing haven of Rose Valley Lake, and the vast, adventurous waters of Lake Wallenpaupack and Raystown, you’ve seen that the Keystone State offers an aquatic escape for every desire. Whether you crave the thrill of watersports, the quiet peace of a fishing boat, the challenge of a hiking trail, or simply a beautiful backdrop for relaxation, these lakes deliver. Each one holds its own unique charm, history, and array of activities, promising that no two visits will ever be quite the same.
So, pack your bags, choose your adventure, and let the shimmering waters of Pennsylvania’s best lakes call to you. Remember to factor in our comprehensive cost guide as you plan your trip, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience, no matter your budget. Your next unforgettable lake adventure awaits!
