If you love peaceful places, pretty views and a bit of adventure, this road trip is totally your thing.
We’re talking quiet lakes hidden in the woods, perfect picnic spots by the water, and that fresh piney air you can’t get enough of.
This isn’t your typical tourist route as these lakes are secret spots that only locals know about, where you can kayak, fish, or just kick back with your feet in the water.
Grab your cooler, pack some snacks, and get ready for a road trip through Pennsylvania that’s full of quiet trails, sunny beaches, and lakes you’ll never forget.
1. Promised Land Lake, Promised Land State Park
Promised Land Lake sits over 1,700 feet high in the Pocono Mountains inside Promised Land State Park, just off Route 390 in northeastern Pennsylvania.
This lake is a favorite for kayaking, fishing for trout and bass, or chilling on the sandy beach with a snack from the nearby concession stand.
Surrounded by dense forests and full of wildlife like bald eagles and deer, it feels like a secret hideout where you can rent a cabin, hike the trails, and totally unplug.
2. Stillwater Lake, Pocono Summit
Just a short drive away in Pocono Summit, Stillwater Lake is a quiet, tucked-away spot that feels more like a local secret than a tourist stop.
This peaceful lake is perfect for paddleboarding at sunrise, watching ducks glide across the water, or snapping dreamy photos of the misty treeline.
There’s no big park or crowds here, instead just calm water, cozy cottages dotting the shore, and that blissful feeling like you’ve stumbled onto your own private escape.
3. Lake Jean, Ricketts Glen State Park
Next up is Lake Jean, situated inside the waterfall-filled wonderland of Ricketts Glen State Park in northeastern PA.
This lake is all about the views—think crystal-clear water, forested hills, and paddleboats gliding by while folks cast lines for bass or perch.
It’s also the perfect reward after hiking the park’s famous Falls Trail, which winds past over 20 waterfalls before dropping you right back at the lakeshore.
4. Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, Bald Eagle State Park
Then there’s the massive Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, stretched out like a winding ribbon through Bald Eagle State Park in central Pennsylvania.
This 1,730-acre lake is a hotspot for sailing, water-skiing, and catching huge catfish, with a full-service marina and boat rentals ready to go.
You’ll also find a big beach, shaded picnic spots, and even a campground right by the water, so you can wake up with sunrise views over the lake.
5. Lake Wilhelm, Maurice K. Goddard State Park
Keep rolling west and you’ll hit Lake Wilhelm, the sparkling centerpiece of Maurice K. Goddard State Park in Mercer County.
This lake is super popular with anglers chasing muskies and bluegill, but it’s also got a 12-mile paved bike trail that loops right along the shoreline.
With wetlands full of herons, wide open water for kayaking, and loads of picnic tables tucked into the trees, it’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a refreshing day visit.
6. Glendale Lake, Prince Gallitzin State Park
Next on the route is Glendale Lake, hiding out in the rolling hills of Prince Gallitzin State Park up in Cambria County.
This lake is huge with 1,635 acres of water as well as quiet coves, nine boat launches, and enough space for everything from pontoon cruises to jet skiing.
It’s also surrounded by about 26 miles of shoreline, so whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or watching a magical sunset, this place totally delivers.
7. Canoe Creek Lake, Canoe Creek State Park
Not far from there, Canoe Creek Lake brings the chill vibes in Canoe Creek State Park, just outside Altoona.
This spot’s a favorite for families, with a calm lake perfect for swimming, paddle boating, or watching little turtles sunbathe on logs near the shore.
There’s also an old limestone kiln you can explore, plus easy walking trails that loop around the water and through quiet woods filled with birdsong.
8. Shawnee Lake, Shawnee State Park
Keep cruising southwest and you’ll land at Shawnee Lake, the sparkling heart of Shawnee State Park in Bedford County.
This 451-acre lake is surrounded by gentle hills and wide-open skies, making it perfect for kayaking, floating on an inner tube, or just stretching out on the grassy beach.
There’s even a lakeside campground and a loop trail with gorgeous views, so it’s easy to turn a quick visit into a cozy overnight stay.
9. Laurel Lake, Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Next up is Laurel Lake, located right inside Pine Grove Furnace State Park at the northern tip of the South Mountain Range.
This little lake might be small, but it’s super charming with a sandy beach, calm water for paddleboarding, and an awesome snack bar.
Plus, it sits just steps from the Appalachian Trail, so don’t be surprised if you see hikers cooling off their feet after a long day on the trail.
10. Lake Marburg, Codorus State Park
Last but definitely not least is Lake Marburg, the massive, island-dotted lake that anchors Codorus State Park in southern York County.
This 1,275-acre lake is made for exploring, with hidden coves, kayak-friendly inlets, and a full marina where you can rent just about anything that floats.
Birdwatchers love it too, especially in fall, when thousands of migrating waterfowl turn the lake into a postcard.
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