Best Lakes in Pennsylvania

Lakeside park is a go-to for picnics, rope swings, kayaks, a snackbar & group & event rentals.

24.7(519)

Raystown Lake

Completed in 1973, the state's largest lake offers swimming, fishing, boat launches & hiking trails.

34.7(259)

Lake Nockamixon

Set within a lush state park, this meandering lake is known for its sailing, kayaking & fishing.

44.6(208)

Pymatuning Reservoir

Large man-made lake offering family-friendly recreation such as fishing, boating & camping.

54.8(105)

Allegheny Reservoir

Paddling, boating & angling around a lakeshore bordered by a forest laced with hiking trails.

64.2(97)

Dutch Springs

Lake · New Britain Township, Pennsylvania

Lively lake with big inflatables, watercraft rentals & scuba attractions, plus an aerial park.

74.8(64)

Lake Galena

Reservoir with an 8-mi. perimeter, edged by park & hiking, biking & equestrian trails.

84.7(29)

Shenango River Lake

Lake · Hermitage, Pennsylvania

Narrow lake offering day-use parks with picnic areas, boat launches & beaches, plus a campground.

94.3(19)

East Branch Clarion River Lake

Lake · Jones Township, Pennsylvania

Dammed 1,160-acre lake known for its year-round fishing, boating, swimming, camping & hiking.

Trip packing checklist

Gear for Lakes in Pennsylvania

Useful gear categories for this kind of water trip. These links open Amazon search results so you can compare current options before you go.

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Inflatable Paddleboard

Useful for calm-water exploring without roof-rack logistics.

Day Cooler

Keeps food and drinks together for longer waterfront stays.

Fishing Rod Combo

A starter combo is often enough for casual lake fishing.

UPF Sun Hat

Open shorelines and boats can mean hours of direct sun.