Pennsylvania might not have an ocean, but who needs saltwater when you’ve got stunning lakes?
We’re talking glassy water ideal for kayaking, beaches where you can stretch out in the sun, and quiet coves made for fishing, swimming, and just floating the day away.
Some of these lakes are massive with sailboats gliding across, while others are tucked deep in the woods, surrounded by nothing but trees and wildlife.
Whether you’re into action-packed water sports, peaceful paddling, or just chasing the perfect sunset, these beautiful lakes are waiting for you.
1. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is a massive, 13-mile-long lake in the Pocono Mountains, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming all summer long.
It was actually man-made in 1926 by the Pennsylvania Power & Light Company as part of a hydroelectric project to generate power for the region.
Today, it feels like a natural paradise with 52 miles of shoreline packed with campsites, picnic areas, and even a few lakeside restaurants.
If you love water sports, this place has it all—jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even ice fishing when winter rolls in.
If you visit in the fall, the red and orange foliage reflecting on the water is next-level gorgeous.
2. Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake is Pennsylvania’s largest lake, stretching a whopping 28 miles through the mountains.
This place is a dream for adventure lovers, with hidden coves for kayaking, scuba diving, and even houseboat rentals.
The surrounding forests are packed with hiking and biking trails, including the famous Seven Points area, where you’ll find scenic overlooks and a buzzing marina.
If you’re into fishing, get ready to reel in monster striped bass, and throughout the year, the lake hosts various events that make it an exciting destination for visitors.
3. Presque Isle Bay
Presque Isle Bay, along the shores of Lake Erie, is a gorgeous little slice of coast, with sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.
It’s part of Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre peninsula packed with trails, picnic spots, and prime birdwatching (over 300 species stop here during migration!).
The bay itself is a hotspot for boating and fishing, and in the winter, it turns into an ice fishing wonderland.
For a real treat, take a boat tour out to the historic Presque Isle Lighthouse, then hit up Sara’s for a famous orange-vanilla twist cone to end the day on a sweet note.
(Presque Isle Lighthouse and Sara’s normally close for the winter, with Sara’s reopening in April and the lighthouse following in May.)
4. Lake Harmony
Lake Harmony is a cozy lake in the Poconos that feels super laid-back and is the perfect place for year-round fun.
In the summer, you can paddle out in a kayak or try waterskiing, while winter brings easy access to nearby Jack Frost and Big Boulder ski resorts.
It’s a favorite for weekend getaways, with lakefront cabins, fire pits for s’mores, and classic waterfront spots like Nick’s Lake House serving up good food with a view.
If you’re into live music and nightlife, the legendary Shenanigans is right nearby, keeping the party going long after the sun sets over the water.
5. Pymatuning Lake
Pymatuning Lake is a huge 17,000-acre reservoir straddling the Pennsylvania-Ohio border.
It’s best known for The Spillway, a bizarre (but awesome) attraction where you can watch thousands of carp swarm the surface as visitors toss in bread.
Beyond the fish frenzy, this lake is a dream for nature lovers, with quiet coves for kayaking, tons of fishing spots, and campgrounds where you can stargaze.
The state park surrounding the lake is packed with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a causeway that gives you panoramic water views.
And if you’re into wildlife, keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, and a variety of other birds nesting in the surrounding forests.
6. Beltzville Lake
Beltzville Lake is a 949-acre gem in the foothills of the Poconos, and it’s the spot to hit if you love a sandy beach without the long drive to the Jersey Shore.
As part of Beltzville State Park, it offers waterfall hikes, picnic spots with mountain views, and a no-wake zone for peaceful paddling.
The lake is also a favorite for boaters and water skiers, with plenty of open space to pick up speed and enjoy a day on the water.
For a touch of history, check out the park’s historic sites, including remnants of the small village that once stood where the lake is today.
7. Lackawanna Lake
Lackawanna Lake is a peaceful 198-acre escape just outside Scranton, ideal for lazy afternoons of fishing, paddling, and spotting wildlife along the shore.
It’s the highlight of Lackawanna State Park, where you’ll find over 18 miles of hiking and biking trails, plus picnic areas that are basically made for a post-hike feast.
While electric motorboats are allowed, much of the lake remains calm, making it a top spot for kayakers and canoeists.
In the fall, the whole place lights up with red and gold foliage, turning an already scenic lake into an absolute showstopper.
8. Cowanesque Lake
Cowanesque Lake sits up in Pennsylvania’s Northern Tier, just a stone’s throw from the New York border, and it’s a place where wide-open water meets rolling green hills.
This 1,085-acre lake is all about big-sky views, sandy beaches, and some of the best bass fishing around—whether you’re casting from a boat or right off the shore.
There’s plenty of space for water skiing and tubing, plus picnic areas and campgrounds that make it easy to turn a day trip into a full-on weekend adventure.
For even more lake time, you can hop over to nearby Tioga Lake, another scenic spot that’s so close you might as well check out both while you’re in the area.
9. Frances Slocum Lake
Frances Slocum Lake is a 165-acre retreat inside Frances Slocum State Park, just outside Wilkes-Barre, and it’s where you can truly slow down and soak up nature.
With its horseshoe shape and tree-lined shores, the lake is a favorite for people who want to paddle through calm waters and maybe spot a deer along the edge.
Fishing for bass and walleye is a big deal here, and if you’re up for a little hiking, the park’s trails lead to lovely overlooks and a section of dense hemlock forest.
For history buffs, the lake’s name comes from Frances Slocum, a young girl kidnapped by Native Americans in the 1700s who later chose to stay and live among them.
10. Laurel Hill Lake
Laurel Hill Lake is a 63-acre haven in the Laurel Highlands, surrounded by towering forests and some of the prettiest mountain scenery in the state.
It’s part of Laurel Hill State Park, which means you get hiking trails, cozy cabins, and a sandy swimming beach that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
The lake only allows electric motorboats, so it’s all about peaceful paddling, fishing for trout, and watching the mist rise off the water early in the morning.
If you’re visiting in the fall, the vibrant leaves reflecting on the lake make it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
11. Marsh Creek State Park
Marsh Creek Lake, the 535-acre centerpiece of Marsh Creek State Park, is a go-to spot for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding right in the heart of Chester County.
The calm water is great for spotting turtles, herons, and even bald eagles, while the park’s rolling hills and meadows offer a beautiful picnic spot.
If you’re into hiking or biking, the trails here wind through shady forests with some seriously stunning lake views.
In the winter, the whole place transforms into a snow-covered playground, with ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and sledding hills that bring out everyone’s inner kid.
12. Lake Arthur
Lake Arthur, the 3,200-acre jewel of Moraine State Park, is one of the state’s best spots for sailing, thanks to its steady breezes and two full-service marinas.
If you’re more of a paddler, the lake’s quiet coves and tree-lined inlets make for a perfect kayaking adventure, especially at sunrise when the water is like glass.
The park also has nearly 30 miles of trails, including the scenic North Country Trail, plus a sandy beach where you can kick back and soak up the sun.
If you visit in late summer, don’t miss Regatta at Lake Arthur, a weekend filled with sailboat races, live music, and family-friendly activities along the shore.
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