7 Refreshing Natural Pools You’ll Definitely Want To Visit This Summer In Pennsylvania

Air conditioning certainly keeps us cool, especially during the smoldering days of summer. However, when we’re holed up in the air conditioning, we miss some of the best parts of the season – the golden sunshine, sinking our toes into soft sand, and rushing to finish an ice cream treat before it melts. Embrace all that summer has to offer – including the heat – with a cool down in these refreshing lakes in Pennsylvania.

Beltzville State Park, 2950 Pohopoco Dr, Lehighton, PA 18235, USA

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Stake your spot on the sandy beach at Beltzville State Park, which leads into the refreshing waters of Beltzville Lake. The sandy beach spans 525 feet, so you'll find plenty of space to relax. (The beach can get extremely busy on hot days, so keep that in mind.) Grab a bite to eat and a drink at the seasonal concession stand. The area also features showers, making it easy to change when your beach day is over. Find more information on the official website of Beltzville State Park.

Beaches at Pennsylvania state parks are typically open from the end of May until the middle of September. However, you should check individual state park websites to confirm.

Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach, 130 Lakeview Drive, Mt Gretna, PA 17064, USA

Facebook/Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach

For an old-fashioned beach day, head to Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach. (Admission fees apply.) Swim in the refreshing lake water; go tubing, or sunbathe on the sandy beach. The beach also features kayak and canoe rentals and a snack bar. Learn more on the official Facebook page of Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach.

Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA

Flickr/Jon Dawson

Meadow Run Natural Waterslides obviously aren't lakes, but they are good fun during the summertime. Tucked in Ohiopyle State Park, the natural waterslides beckon adventure seekers. Because they are natural, be prepared to get some bumps and bruises. Head over to the official website of Ohiopyle State Park for more information.

Laurel Hill State Park, 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501, USA

Facebook/Laurel Hill State Park Complex

A gorgeous sand beach that streches 1,200 feet awaits at Laurel Hill State Park. Sunbathe on the soft sand, or spend your day wading in the cool water of Laurel Hill Lake. The beach is ADA-accessible, featuring a ramp to the lake and an accessible bathroom. Bring a picnic along, or grab a bite to eat and a drink from the seasonal snack bar. Stop by the official website of Laurel Hill State Park for more information.

Bald Eagle State Park, 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841, USA

Google/Lori Stauffer

Boasting a surf and turf beach that spans 1,200 feet, Bald Eagle State Park is home to Foster Joseph Sayers Lake, a picture-perfect spot for cooling off during the hottest days of the summer. The park features a full list of amenities, too, including a playground, restrooms, and changing rooms. Visit the official website of Bald Eagle State Park for more information.

Black Moshannon State Park, 4216 Beaver Rd, Philipsburg, PA 16866, USA

Google/Harry Anuszewski Jr.

Go for a dip in the refreshing Black Moshannon Lake, an ADA-accessible beach at Black Moshannon State Park. The 250-acre lake is also popular with boaters. Find more on the official website of Black Moshannon State Park.

Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA

Trip Advisor/Management

Presque Isle State Park in Erie is perhaps the most popular summer destination in Pennsylvania. After all, it boasts 13 sandy beaches, offering the only surf swimming in the state. You might want to bring your surfboard along too. Boating and sailing are also popular in Lake Erie. Find more details on the official website of Presque Isle State Park.

What do you think are the most refreshing lakes in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! When it’s not hot enough to go for a dip, embark on these seven Pennsylvania trails that lead to spectacular lake views.