The Little Known Beach Near Pittsburgh That’ll Make Your Summer Unforgettable

Summer always seems so fleeting. Maybe the season seems to go so fast because we have so much we want to pack into it. Many of us include lazy days at the beach to our summer itinerary. After all, a jam-packed calendar always needs some days for rest and relaxation. We have quite a few beaches - from those at Moraine State Park in Portersville to Presque Isle State Park in Erie - from which to choose. However, when you want to get away to a beautiful and lesser-known spot, visit this little-known beach near Pittsburgh.

If you're a fan of leisurely summer drives, you'll love the less than two-hour trek to Shawnee State Park in Bedford County. You can even camp out overnight if you have the time.

One of the highlights of the nearly 4,000-square foot state park, especially during the summer, is its sandy beach.

Claim your spot on the soft sand, which leads into the 451-acre Shawnee Lake, or find a shady space under a tree in the grassy area. (You'll still only be a short stroll from the water.)

Definitely take precautions when you go in the water, as the beach doesn't have lifeguards. However, you will have access to a flush toilets and showers.

If you're hungry, grab a snack from the vending machines. You might also want to bring along a picnic lunch, the perfect addition to a lazy day at the beach.

Shawnee State Park's beach welcomes swimmers from the end of May through the middle of September, so you'll have plenty of time to squeeze in a visit.

The park also offers a full menu of activities - hiking, biking, boating, and disc golf are just a few of the favorite pastimes at Shawnee State Park.

Keep Shawnee State Park in mind during the winter, too, if you like spending time outdoors. Visitors can go cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, or snowmobiling.

Start planning your visit on the official website of Shawnee State Park. Or, go here for Facebook.

What's your favorite little known beach near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Then take a peek at these five swimming spots near Pittsburgh that have the most pristine water.