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Photo: Trough Creek State Park - panoramio (17) by Ron Shawley (CC BY 3.0) License

Trough Creek State Park

Tourist attraction · James Creek, Pennsylvania

Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date

Use caution

Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: water temperature is 64°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.

  • Water temp 64°F (18°C)
  • Streamflow 508 ft³/s
  • Gage height 4.13 ft

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge Rays Br Juniata R bl Rays Dam nr Huntingdon, PA (10.3 mi away), as of Oct 20, 3:30 AM gauge-local time.

  • Flow is above the 75th percentile for Oct 20 (median 209 ft³/s over 54 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 20, 3:30 AM gauge-local time
Why, sources & official advisories
  • Water temperature is 64°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — USGS gauge 01563200, as of Oct 20, 3:30 AM gauge-local time

No official beach-advisory feed for Pennsylvania yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.

Get an email when it’s warm enough

It’s 64°F at Trough Creek State Park now. We check the water daily and email you once when it reaches your temperature.

Cool todaycamping-nearbyBarbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom

A 541-acre gem in south-central Pennsylvania where Great Trough Creek carves through a scenic gorge in Terrace Mountain before emptying into Raystown Lake. The park's most famous feature is Balanced Rock — a boulder hanging precariously off a ledge throughout recorded history. Rainbow Falls, a 15-20 foot cascade on Abbott Run, is best after heavy rain. A swaying suspension bridge crosses the creek, and the yellow-orange Copperas Rock overhang showcases weathered iron formations. Rugged trails with excellent overlook views.

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Weather at Trough Creek State Park

41°F, Clear · H 66° / L 40° · 5% chance of rain
H: 66° L: 40°
Clear
Clear
41°
|
Feels like 36°
Precipitation
5%
Humidity
72%
Wind
3 mph
UV Index
0
12 AM
Clear
44°
3 AM
Clear
42°
6 AM
Clear
40°
9 AM
Sunny
47°
12 PM
Sunny
62°
3 PM
Sunny
66°
6 PM
Sunny
54°
9 PM
Clear
46°

Frequently asked questions

Where is Trough Creek State Park?
Trough Creek State Park is a tourist attraction in James Creek, Pennsylvania.
What is the water temperature at Trough Creek State Park?
As of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at Trough Creek State Park in James Creek, Pennsylvania is 64°F (18°C), measured by USGS gauge 01563200, 10.3 miles away.
Can you swim at Trough Creek State Park?
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: water temperature is 64°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Checked October 20, 2026.
How is Trough Creek State Park rated?
Trough Creek State Park in James Creek, Pennsylvania has an average visitor rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 902 reviews.
What amenities does Trough Creek State Park have?
Visitor-listed amenities at Trough Creek State Park include camping-nearby.

Location & Contact

16362 Little Valley Rd, James Creek, PA 16657

James Creek, Pennsylvania 16657

💡 Best times & visiting tips
  • ›Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
  • ›Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
  • ›Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience

Features & amenities

Highlights

⭐ Picnics

Accessibility

♿ Wheelchair accessible entrance♿ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

⛺ Camping nearby🍖 Barbecue grill🧺 Picnic tables🚻 Public restroom

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Kid-friendly hikes👶 Playground
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