Did you know that Lake Jean, despite its serene appearance, was actually created by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the 1960s as a water supply reservoir that eventually transformed into one of the region’s most beloved recreational destinations? This 245-acre lake nestled within Ricketts Glen State Park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities throughout the year.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Lake Jean is located within Ricketts Glen State Park in northeastern Pennsylvania, spanning across Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties. The park’s diverse landscape makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
By Air
The closest major airports to Lake Jean are:
- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) – approximately 45 km (28 miles) east
- Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT) – approximately 65 km (40 miles) west
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) – approximately 137 km (85 miles) south
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By Car
The most convenient way to reach Lake Jean is by car. The lake is located within Ricketts Glen State Park, accessible via several routes:
- From Wilkes-Barre/Scranton: Take I-81 to PA-118, then follow signs to the park.
- From Harrisburg: Take I-81 north to exit 164 (Nanticoke), then follow PA-29 north and PA-118 west.
- From Philadelphia: Take the Northeast Extension of the PA Turnpike (I-476) north to I-80, then I-81, and follow directions from Wilkes-Barre.
Rent a Car for Your Adventure
Explore Lake Jean and the surrounding area at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Lake Jean offers unique experiences throughout the year, with each season showcasing different natural highlights. Your ideal visiting time depends on what activities you’re most interested in experiencing.
Recommended Seasons
- Late Spring (May-June): Comfortable temperatures of 15-24°C (59-75°F), blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds make this an excellent time for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Summer (June-August): Peak season with temperatures averaging 21-29°C (70-85°F). Perfect for swimming, boating, and camping, though weekends can be crowded.
- Early Fall (September-October): Spectacular foliage with temperatures ranging from 10-21°C (50-70°F). Ideal for photography and hiking with fewer visitors after Labor Day.
Seasons to Avoid
- Late Fall (November): Many facilities close after the fall foliage season, and temperatures drop significantly.
- Winter (December-March): The lake freezes over, and many trails become inaccessible. The Falls Trail is closed except to properly equipped ice climbers.
- Early Spring (March-April): Muddy conditions and unpredictable weather can make hiking challenging, though waterfalls are at peak flow.
Weather Tip: Summer thunderstorms are common in the afternoon. Plan morning activities during summer months and always check the weather forecast before your visit.
Getting Around Locally
Lake Jean is situated within Ricketts Glen State Park, which covers over 13,000 acres with various recreational areas. Understanding how to navigate the park will help you make the most of your visit.
Park Layout
The park is divided into several distinct areas:
- Lake Jean: The 245-acre lake with swimming, boating, and fishing facilities
- Beach and Day Use Area: Facilities for picnicking and swimming
- Glens Natural Area: The heart of the park featuring the Falls Trail and 22 named waterfalls
- Campgrounds: Located near Lake Jean with tent sites and cabins
- Red Rock Mountain: Higher elevation area with Grand View overlook
Navigation Tip: Cell service is limited within the park, especially in the glens area. Download maps before your visit and pick up a paper map at the park office.
Where to Stay
Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen State Park offer several accommodation options within the park boundaries, from rustic camping to comfortable cabins. There are also various lodging choices in nearby communities for those seeking additional amenities.
In-Park Accommodations
Cabins
The park features 10 modern cabins available year-round:
- Two or three bedrooms accommodating up to six people
- Equipped with electric heat, living room, kitchen, and bathroom
- One cabin is ADA accessible
- Guests must bring their own linens, towels, and cookware
Campgrounds
The park offers 120 campsites in two camping areas near Lake Jean:
- Sites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs
- Modern amenities include flush toilets, hot showers, and laundry facilities
- Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table
- Camping season typically runs from April through October
Nearby Lodging Options
Bed & Breakfasts
Several charming B&Bs can be found within a 30-minute drive of the park in towns like Benton, Dushore, and Sweet Valley. These offer a more personal experience with home-cooked breakfasts and local knowledge from hosts.
Hotels & Motels
The larger towns of Bloomsburg, Wilkes-Barre, and Scranton (all within an hour’s drive) offer a range of chain hotels and independent motels with standard amenities like Wi-Fi, pools, and on-site restaurants.
Book Your Stay at Lake Jean
Secure cabins, campsites, or nearby accommodations for your Lake Jean adventure.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Lake Jean itself has limited dining facilities, the surrounding area offers a variety of options to satisfy your hunger after a day of hiking and exploring.
In-Park Dining Options
Food options within the park are seasonal and limited:
- A concession stand near the beach area operates during summer months (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day)
- The stand offers basic snacks, ice cream, cold drinks, and simple lunch items
- Picnic areas throughout the park are equipped with tables and charcoal grills
Nearby Restaurants
Several dining establishments can be found within a 30-minute drive of the park:
Casual Dining
- The Ricketts Glen Hotel (Benton) – Historic tavern serving hearty American fare and local beers
- Red Rock Corner Store (Red Rock) – Convenience store with deli sandwiches and basic groceries
- Fritz Tastee Creme (Benton) – Ice cream shop with light food options
Local Specialties
- Ricketts Cidery (Benton) – Family-owned business offering hard ciders made using local apples
- Jamison City Hotel & Restaurant (Benton) – Classic Pennsylvania fare in a historic setting
- Tony’s Steaks (Benton) – Food truck offering quality grilled options
Dining Tip: Most visitors bring their own food, especially if planning to spend the full day hiking or if staying at the campground or cabins. Stock up on supplies in Benton or Bloomsburg before arriving at the park.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Lake Jean and the surrounding Ricketts Glen State Park offer a wealth of natural attractions and outdoor activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From scenic waterfalls to peaceful lake activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Lake Jean Activities
This 245-acre lake offers numerous recreational opportunities:
- Swimming – A 600-foot beach is open from late May to mid-September
- Boating – Electric motors, sailboats, and non-powered boats are permitted (no gas motors)
- Fishing – The lake is stocked with trout and also contains bass, pickerel, and panfish
- Boat Rentals – Canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and paddleboats available during summer months
The Falls Trail
While not directly on Lake Jean, the park’s most famous attraction is just a short drive away. The Falls Trail is a 7.2-mile loop that showcases 22 named waterfalls ranging from 3.3 to 28.6 meters (11 to 94 feet) in height:
- Ganoga Falls – The tallest waterfall at 28.6 meters (94 feet)
- Waters Meet – The junction where Ganoga Glen and Glen Leigh converge
- Adams Falls – Easily accessible from the Route 118 parking area
Trail Difficulty: The Falls Trail is rated as difficult and requires proper footwear and physical fitness. The trail features many stone steps, steep sections, and potentially slippery surfaces. Allow 3-5 hours to complete the full loop.
Book Guided Experiences
Discover the natural wonders of Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen with expert guides.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Lake Jean itself is primarily a natural destination, the surrounding communities offer cultural experiences that can enrich your visit to the area.
Local History
The park is named after Colonel Robert Ricketts, who served in the Civil War and once owned much of the property. The area was approved to become a national park in the 1930s, but World War II interrupted these plans, and the land was eventually transferred to Pennsylvania as a state park.
Nearby Cultural Attractions
- Farmhouse 52 (Benton) – Local artisan shop featuring handmade crafts and goods from regional creators
- Falls Edge Farm (Benton) – Working farm with seasonal events and demonstrations
- Winding Creek Shops (Benton) – Collection of local boutiques showcasing Pennsylvania craftsmanship
Seasonal Events
The communities surrounding Lake Jean host various events throughout the year:
- Summer Concert Series – Outdoor music events in nearby towns during summer months
- Harvest Festivals – Celebrate the autumn harvest with local food, crafts, and activities in September and October
- Winter Ice Festival – When conditions permit, the park hosts guided ice hiking tours of the frozen waterfalls
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen State Park offer a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Summer Activities
- Hiking – Over 26 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels
- Swimming – Designated beach area with changing facilities
- Fishing – Prime time for bass and panfish in Lake Jean
- Wildlife Viewing – Opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife
Fall Activities
- Fall Foliage – Spectacular colors typically peak in mid-October
- Photography – Prime season for capturing waterfalls framed by colorful leaves
- Hiking – Comfortable temperatures and fewer insects
Winter Activities
- Cross-Country Skiing – Available on designated trails when snow conditions permit
- Snowshoeing – Excellent way to explore the winter landscape
- Ice Fishing – Popular on Lake Jean when ice conditions are safe
Spring Activities
- Waterfall Viewing – High water levels create dramatic cascades
- Wildflower Walks – Spring ephemerals bloom throughout the forest
- Birdwatching – Migrating species return to the park
Notable Trails
Beyond the famous Falls Trail, the park offers several other hiking options:
- Beach Trail (0.8 miles, easy) – Connects campgrounds to the beach area
- Evergreen Trail (1 mile, easy) – Self-guided ecological trail through old-growth forest
- Grand View Trail (1.9 miles, moderate) – Leads to the highest point in the park with panoramic views
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Enjoying Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen State Park safely requires preparation and awareness of potential hazards. Following proper etiquette also ensures that the park remains pristine for future generations.
Trail Safety
The Falls Trail presents specific challenges that require caution:
- Wear proper footwear with good traction (hiking boots recommended)
- Stay on designated trails and behind all guardrails
- Never climb on rocks near waterfalls or attempt to wade in the creek
- Use hiking poles for additional stability on steep sections
- Carry water and snacks, even for shorter hikes
Water Safety
When enjoying Lake Jean:
- Swim only in designated areas during official hours (typically 8 AM to sunset)
- There are no lifeguards on duty – swim at your own risk
- Children should always be supervised near water
- Wear life jackets when boating (required for children under 12)
- Check weather forecasts before water activities
Emergency Preparedness: Cell phone service is unreliable throughout much of the park. Pack a basic first aid kit and know how to reach help in an emergency. The park office number is 570-477-5675.
Visitor Comments About Lake Jean
“Lake Jean was the highlight of our Pennsylvania trip! We spent three days camping near the lake and enjoyed swimming, hiking, and kayaking. The Falls Trail was challenging but absolutely worth it for the spectacular waterfall views. Make sure to bring proper hiking shoes and plenty of water.”
“As European visitors, we were amazed by the natural beauty of Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen. The lake is pristine, and the surrounding forest feels untouched. We particularly enjoyed the wildlife – we spotted deer, various birds, and even a fox during our stay. The cabin accommodations were comfortable and provided a perfect base for exploring.”
“We visit Lake Jean every summer with our family. The beach area is perfect for children, and the picnic facilities are well-maintained. If you’re planning to hike the Falls Trail with kids, I recommend breaking it into sections rather than attempting the full loop. Adams Falls is easily accessible and a great option for families with young children.”
Practical Travel Tips
These practical tips will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable visit to Lake Jean and Ricketts Glen State Park, addressing common questions and concerns that visitors have.
Park Fees & Hours
- Day use areas are open from sunrise to sunset
- No entrance fee for day use (unlike some state parks in other states)
- Camping and cabin fees vary by season and accommodation type
- The park office is typically open 8 AM to 4 PM daily
What to Pack
Essential items for your Lake Jean visit:
- For Hiking: Sturdy hiking boots, water bottle, trail map, hiking poles (recommended for Falls Trail), insect repellent, small first aid kit
- For Swimming: Swimsuit, towel, water shoes, sunscreen, change of clothes
- For Camping: All standard camping gear plus extra tarps (the area can be rainy)
Traveling with Pets
Ricketts Glen welcomes pets with some restrictions:
- Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 1.8 meters (6 feet) at all times
- Pets are permitted in designated camping areas and on most trails
- Pets are NOT allowed on the Falls Trail, swimming areas, or in park buildings
- Owners must clean up after their pets
Avoiding Crowds
Strategies to enjoy a more peaceful experience:
- Visit on weekdays rather than weekends
- Arrive early in the morning (before 9 AM) or later in the afternoon
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall)
- If visiting during peak fall foliage season, have a backup plan in case parking lots are full
Your Lake Jean Adventure Awaits
Lake Jean and the surrounding Ricketts Glen State Park offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and peaceful relaxation. Whether you’re hiking past magnificent waterfalls, swimming in the crystal-clear lake waters, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by ancient forests, this hidden gem in northeastern Pennsylvania promises memories that will last a lifetime.
With proper planning and preparation, your visit to Lake Jean can be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. From the adrenaline rush of challenging hikes to the tranquility of fishing on the peaceful lake, there’s truly something for everyone at this remarkable destination.
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