7 Little Known Swimming Spots Around Pittsburgh That Will Make Your Summer Awesome

Spring's quickly barreling toward the hot and humid days of summer. Fortunately, Pittsburgh - and a bit beyond - offers plenty of fun ways to stay cool all summer long whether you prefer staying in the comfy air conditioning or you want to soak up the sun's summer rays. If you love being outside when it's hot, you'll love these seven swimming spots in Pittsburgh.

1. Raccoon Creek State Park – 3000 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050

Stay close to home while still enjoy an authentic day at the beach at Raccoon Creek State Park. Just 30 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, the vast state park boasts a picturesque beach with 500 feet of sand along the edges of Raccoon Creek. Sunbathe along the sand or in the lush green grass at the beach that also features a concession stand but no lifeguards.

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2. Lake Raystown Resort – 3101 Chipmunk Crossing, Entriken, PA 16638

Nothing says summer like a road trip. Embark on the two hour journey to Lake Raystown Resort where you'll discover a natural oasis with plenty to do on the lake, including paddle boating and canoeing. Kick off your time at the resort at the onsite Wild River Waterpark, where you can glide down a lazy river, slip down slides, or run through the sprinklers.

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3. Conneaut Lake – Conneaut Lake, PA 16316

Up for another road trip? Destination Conneaut Lake will bring you to one of the area's best swimming spots. The spring-fed lake promises plenty to do: From sunbathing on the banks of the lake and swimming to touring the area on an old-fashioned boat or visiting the old-fashioned but new and improved Conneaut Lake Park.

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4. Lake Erie – Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Drive #1, Erie, PA 16505

Travel just two hours north of Pittsburgh for an unforgettable day of swimming at one of Presque Isle State Park's beaches that stretch 11 miles along Lake Erie. Each of the beaches has a lifeguard but amenities vary by beach and include restrooms, bathhouses, picnic areas, and concession stands.

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5. Bear Run Campground – 184 Badger Hill Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Explore the great outdoors at Bear Run Campground or simply spend your days lounging by and frolicking in the shimmering swimming pool at the popular campground near Moraine State Park. Nap in one of the lounge chairs overlooking the pool or float in the cool water.

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6. Moraine State Park – 225 Pleasant Valley Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Treat yourself to a beach day at Moraine State Park this summer. The nearly 17,000 acre park boasts two beaches: South Shore's Pleasant Valley Beach and the North Shore's Lakeview Beach. Stay cool in the waters of the 3,225 acre Lake Arthur or explore the lake by kayak or sailboat.

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7. Sandcastle Waterpark – 1000 Sandcastle Drive, Homestead, PA 15120

Of course, summer wouldn't be summer without time spent at the sprawling Sandcastle Waterpark. Whether you prefer zipping down slides or meandering on the lazy river, you'll find the perfect way to stay cool at Pittsburgh's water park. Other attractions at Sandcastle, which features a boardwalk, include the Mushroom Pool and the wave pool.

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Start planning your summer bucket list by adding these spectacular swimming spots in Pittsburgh and some of the best things you can do under the summer sun in the Burgh.