The 7 Best State Park Beaches in Pennsylvania to Close Out Summer

Summer always flies by, doesn’t it? Before the warm days fade, there’s still time to grab your beach bag and spend a lazy afternoon by the water. You don’t have to head to the coast either—Pennsylvania’s state park beaches are a quick ticket to sand, swimming, and sunshine without a long drive or big crowds. Whether you’re hanging out with friends, planning a family day, or sneaking in a solo trip, I’ll walk you through seven beaches that are definitely worth a visit.

1. Beltzville State Park, Lehighton

If you like room to spread out, Beltzville delivers. The sandy beach runs more than 500 feet along the lake, so there’s space for everyone. You’ll find picnic tables and pavilions within steps of the sand, plus a snack bar if you don’t feel like packing food. Heads up—parking fills fast on sunny weekends, so getting there early is smart. The park also has several hiking trails if you're looking for some shade and a change of scenery.

2. Presque Isle State Park, Erie

Presque Isle feels as close to the ocean as you can get without leaving the state. This 3,200-acre peninsula on Lake Erie has 11 sandy beaches, each with its own vibe. You can rent a bike or kayak if you want to explore past the shoreline, or you could visit the peninsula's lighthouse for a piece of local history and some stunning views. Stick around for the sunsets here—they have a way of stealing the show.

3. Poe Valley State Park, Penn Township

Poe Valley is small, laid-back, and tucked into the forest, making it a nice choice if you want something low-key. The beach sits on a 25-acre lake with gentle water that’s great for young swimmers. Picnic spots, a playground, and restrooms are all close by, and the lake is also stocked with trout, so bring a fishing pole if you're feeling lucky.

4. Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Jim Thorpe

Not technically a state park, but still worth the stop. Mauch Chunk Lake has a roped-off swimming area and paddleboats for rent for getting out on the water. The lake covers 345 acres and is surrounded by wooded hills, and it’s only a short drive from downtown Jim Thorpe—perfect for grabbing lunch or wandering the shops after you dry off.

5. Bald Eagle State Park, Howard

This one's all about space and views. The beach sits on the 1,730-acre Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. Changing areas and restrooms are close to the sand, but since rentals aren’t available and seating is limited, you’ll want to bring your own chairs or blankets. Keep an eye on the sky—the park is a prime location for bald eagle sightings, especially near the lake.

6. Cowans Gap State Park, Fort Loudon

Cowans Gap is tucked into a mountain valley, with a sandy 500-foot beach on a clear, 42-acre lake. On busy weekends, you’ll often spot families and friends gathering for some friendly volleyball games and lakeside fun. Picnic tables, charcoal grills, and restrooms make it easy to enjoy a meal between swims. If camping’s your thing, there’s a campground just a short walk from the water, so you can spend your days swimming and your nights around the campfire.

7. Raccoon Creek State Park, Hookstown

One of the biggest parks in the state, Raccoon Creek, has a 500-foot beach along a 101-acre lake. You might catch a local nature program or family event at the nearby Nature Center, which is a great way to mix in a little exploring while taking breaks from swimming. There’s also a concession stand for snacks, along with miles of hiking trails to stretch your legs.

A final visit to these state park beaches in Pennsylvania is the perfect way to close out summer. For more on these areas, visit the Pennsylvania State Park website, and for a deeper dive into all the incredible natural places the state has to offer, be sure to check out our full article, Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Pennsylvania.