You might not think of beaches when you picture Pennsylvania, but there are some fantastic lake beaches throughout the state, especially in the state parks. Surrounded by beautiful forests, the lakes in Pennsylvania are full of water sports, fishing, and of course, popular beaches.
What are the Best Beaches in Pennsylvania?
- Black Moshannon State Park
- Conneaut Lake
- Presque Isle State Park
- Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach
- Mauch Chunk Lake Park
- Gouldsboro State Park
- Beltzville State Park
- Laurel Hill State Park
- Bald Eagle State Park
- Poe Valley State Park
What are the Best Pennsylvania Beaches for RVers?
Below, we have created a comparison table of the best beaches in Pennsylvania for RVers. Notice that we compared campsite options as well as general RV friendliness.
| Park | Campsite Options | Hookups & Amenities | RV Friendliness | Best For | Key Advantage |
| Laurel Hill State Park | On-site campground with RV sites | Electric hookups, restrooms, showers, boat rentals, beach access, fishing, trails | Very high; well-maintained sites, accommodates larger rigs | Relaxed camping, fishing, water activities | Large sandy beach with strong RV camping options and access to forested surroundings |
| Poe Valley State Park | On-site campground with RV sites | Electric hookups, restrooms, showers, concession stand, boat rentals, lake access | Very high; quiet setting, good site access | Quiet stays, nature-focused trips, fishing | Scenic mountain lake setting with on-site camping and easy lake access |
| Bald Eagle State Park | On-site campground with RV sites | Full hookups (select sites), restrooms, showers, marina, playground, trails | Very high; large campground, big-rig friendly | Family camping, boating, extended stays | Large reservoir with extensive amenities, long beach, and diverse recreational options |
Black Moshannon State Park
Located near Pennsylvania’s largest bog, Black Moshannon State Park is home to Black Moshannon Lake, known for its tea-colored water. Swim in the 250-acre lake, relax on the quiet beach, or rent kayaks and pontoon boats. Hiking and biking trails are nearby.
Things to do near Black Moshannon State Park
This state park is Nine miles west of Philipsburg, where you will find basic amenties to make your stay comfortable.
Conneaut Lake
A family-friendly destination for relaxing, fishing, waterskiing, and swimming. Walk the boardwalk or visit the nearby waterpark and amusement park. Kiddie Cove offers a safe play area for younger children. A campground within walking distance allows for multi-day stays.
Things to do near Conneaut Lake
This lake is remote, making it a good nature escape. If you need something, Meadville is the closest place with dining and shopping. Meanwhile, Grove City has more to offer and is about 40 miles away.
Presque Isle State Park
Located on Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park features 11 sandy beaches. Open year-round for relaxing and walking, with designated areas for swimming, surfing, and scuba diving. The park also offers fishing, hiking, and biking.
Things to do near Presque Isle State Park
While in the area, visit Presque Isle Lighthouse. It’s also worthwhile to explore the town of Erie.
Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach
A family-run recreation area with an 8-acre beach, lawn, and picnic grove. Swim, relax on the sand, or rent kayaks and inner tubes. Lifeguards and a kids dock make it family-friendly, with a snack bar and picnic area available.
Things to do near Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach
This park is just 12 miles from Hershey and 25 miles from Lancaster, meaning you’ll find plenty to check out nearby, including Hersheypark.
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Offers picnicking, hiking, biking, boating, and fishing. The beach and swim area are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day with lifeguards. Amenities include a pavilion, concession stand, playground, and boat rentals.
Things to do near Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Located between Scranton and Philadelphia, this state park is pretty remote, but still close enough to cities for those who want to do some exploring.
Gouldsboro State Park
Spanning over 2,800 acres, this park includes Gouldsboro Lake, popular for boating and fishing. A sandy beach with rustic restrooms is open seasonally. Rentals include rowboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats.
Things to do near Gouldsboro State Park
Scranton is 22 miles away from his park and New York City is just over 100 miles southeast. These are the places to go for attractions.
Beltzville State Park
Located in the southern foothills of the Poconos, Beltzville Lake features a 525-foot sandy beach with a bathhouse, showers, and concessions. Swim, relax, picnic, or rent kayaks, paddleboats, and pontoon boats. The lake is stocked for fishing.
Things to do near Beltzville State Park
Just north of Allentown, this state park isn’t near much to do. That said, Scranton is over 50 miles north and Philadelphia is 78 miles south if you wish to drive to do some exploring.
Laurel Hill State Park
Surrounded by forest, Laurel Hill State Park features a 1,200-foot sandy beach. Swim, relax, or rent rowboats, kayaks, hydrobikes, and paddleboards. Fishing is popular, and overnight RV camping is available.
Things to do near Laurel Hill State Park
The town of Somerset is 10 miles east of this park, offering basic dining and shopping. Looking for attractions? Pittsburgh is 63 miles west.
Bald Eagle State Park
Home to Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, Bald Eagle State Park features a 1,200-foot sand and turf beach with a playground, snack bar, changing rooms, and restrooms. Boat rentals are available, and 11 miles of trails offer hiking and cross-country skiing.
Things to do near Bald Eagle State Park
Located along PA Route 150 between Milesburg and Lock Haven, this park is near Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, which is fun to check out.
Poe Valley State Park
Set in a mountain valley, Poe Valley State Park offers a seasonal swimming beach, concession stand, and boat rentals. Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboats, or fish for stocked trout. RV camping is available.
Things to do near Poe Valley State Park
This park is located between Coburn and Milroy. It is near Bald Eagle State Forest and Poe Paddy State Park and both are worth seeing.
Planning an RV Trip to Pennsylvania
During your time in the state, make sure to visit the best campgrounds and state parks in Pennsylvania. Also, make time to see the big cities the state has to offer.
