Did you know that Locust Lake State Park is home to over 100 species of birds, making it one of Pennsylvania’s hidden gems for birdwatching? Nestled on the slopes of Locust Mountain in Schuylkill County, this 1,772-acre natural paradise offers a perfect escape from urban life with its pristine 52-acre lake surrounded by lush forests. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this comprehensive guide will help you discover all the best things to do at Locust Lake.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Locust Lake State Park is conveniently located just 5 miles (8 km) from Exit 131 on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. This accessibility makes it an ideal destination for both day trips and longer stays.
Closest Airports
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) – 72 km (45 miles)
- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) – 80 km (50 miles)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) – 145 km (90 miles)
Driving Directions
- From I-81 Northbound: Take exit 131B, cross under the overpass and turn left toward New Boston. Follow the road for 1.1 km (0.7 miles), then turn left and follow signs to the park.
- From I-81 Southbound: Take exit 131A. Turn left and drive for 1.6 km (1 mile) to another left turn. Follow the signs to the park.
The park entrance is located at the end of Locust Lake Road at coordinates 40.785043, -76.118508. Day visitors should park in the designated gravel lot just before the ranger station and park sign.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover Locust Lake and the surrounding attractions in Schuylkill County.
Best Time to Visit Locust Lake
Recommended Seasons
- Late Spring (May-June): Comfortable temperatures of 15-25°C (59-77°F), wildflowers in bloom, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June-August): Peak season with temperatures around 24-29°C (75-85°F). Perfect for swimming, boating, and camping. The beach is open from late May to mid-September.
- Early Fall (September-October): Spectacular foliage with temperatures of 10-21°C (50-70°F). Ideal for hiking and photography.
Seasons to Avoid
- Winter (December-February): While beautiful for winter enthusiasts, temperatures drop to -1 to 2°C (30-36°F). Many facilities close, and water activities are unavailable.
- Early Spring (March-April): Often muddy with unpredictable weather and limited facilities as the park prepares for the main season.
Weather Tips
Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming, but afternoon thunderstorms are common. Fall offers spectacular foliage but cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. Spring can be unpredictable with rain showers, while winter sees occasional snowfall that transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland for those prepared for cold weather activities.
The swimming beach at Locust Lake is typically open from late May to mid-September, depending on weather conditions and staffing. Always check the official park website for current operating hours before your visit.
Getting Around Locally
Locust Lake State Park is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The park’s compact size makes it easy to navigate, with most attractions accessible via short walks from the main parking areas.
Transportation Options
- Walking: The 1.3-km (0.8-mile) paved Bicycle Trail encircles the lake and provides access to most park amenities.
- Biking: Bicycles are permitted on the paved trail around the lake. The flat terrain makes it suitable for riders of all ages.
- Driving: A vehicle is necessary to reach the park, but once there, most visitors park in the main lot and explore on foot.
- Boat Rentals: During summer months, the camp store offers kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, pedal boats, and rowboats for rent to explore the lake.
Pro Tip: The paved Bicycle Trail is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, making it ideal for visitors with mobility concerns or families with young children.
Where to Stay
Locust Lake offers various accommodation options, from camping within the park to nearby hotels and vacation rentals for those seeking more amenities.
Camping at Locust Lake State Park
The park features 282 campsites spread across two campgrounds. The sites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 12 meters (40 feet) in length. Amenities include:
- Modern restrooms with hot showers
- Electric hookups at many sites
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Camp store for supplies
- Dump station for RVs
- Pet-friendly sites available
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer and weekends, and can be made up to 11 months in advance. Nightly camping fees range from $22 to $27.
Nearby Accommodations
If camping isn’t your style, several lodging options are available within a 20-30 minute drive:
- Hotels and motels in Frackville and Pottsville
- Bed and breakfasts in surrounding towns
- Vacation rentals in the Schuylkill County area
Find Your Perfect Stay
Book accommodations near Locust Lake for your upcoming adventure.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Locust Lake State Park doesn’t have restaurants within its boundaries, there are several dining options nearby and opportunities to enjoy meals in the park’s picnic areas.
Picnicking in the Park
Locust Lake has several picnic areas with tables, grills, and scenic views. The main picnic area near the beach includes pavilions that can be reserved for groups. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Nearby Restaurants
Within a 10-15 minute drive from the park, you’ll find several dining options:
- Basile’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (Tamaqua): Family-friendly Italian cuisine and pizza
- Leiby’s Ice Cream House & Restaurant (Tamaqua): Classic American fare and homemade ice cream
- Revere Brewery (Tamaqua): Craft beers and pub food
- Stoker’s Brewing Company (Tamaqua): Local brews and casual dining
- Heisler’s Cloverleaf Dairy (Tamaqua): Ice cream and light meals
Local Specialties
When dining in the area, look for these Pennsylvania specialties:
- Pennsylvania Dutch pot pie (a hearty stew)
- Pierogies (filled dumplings)
- Scrapple (pork breakfast meat)
- Shoofly pie (molasses dessert)
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Locust Lake State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages, with the beautiful lake as its centerpiece.
Lake Activities
Swimming
The sandy beach area offers supervised swimming from late May to mid-September. The swimming area is marked with buoys and has a maximum depth of 1.7 meters (5.5 feet). Changing facilities and restrooms are available nearby.
Fishing
Locust Lake is stocked with brook trout and brown trout several times throughout the year. Other species include pickerel, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish. An accessible fishing pier makes the lake enjoyable for anglers of all abilities.
Boating
The lake permits electric motors and non-powered boats. Boat launches are available on both sides of the dam. During summer, the camp store rents kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, pedal boats, and rowboats.
Hiking Trails
The park features 6.75 km (4.2 miles) of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty:
- Bicycle Trail: A paved 1.3-km (0.8-mile) loop around the lake. Flat and easy, suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Oak Loop Trail: A more challenging 3.5-km (2.2-mile) trail that climbs up Locust Mountain, offering scenic views and forest immersion.
- Ridge Trail and Hemlock Trail: Connector trails that allow for shorter loop options.
Enhance Your Locust Lake Experience
Discover guided tours and activities in the Schuylkill County area.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Locust Lake State Park itself focuses on natural attractions, the surrounding area offers cultural and historical sites worth exploring.
Nearby Cultural Attractions
- Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum (Lansford): Tour the oldest continuously operated anthracite coal mine, located about 20 minutes from the park.
- Tamaqua Historic District: Explore the well-preserved 19th-century architecture in this nearby town.
- Jerry’s Classic Cars and Collectables (Pottsville): A museum featuring vintage automobiles and memorabilia.
- Yuengling Brewery (Pottsville): America’s oldest brewery offers tours and tastings.
Park Programs
Throughout the year, park staff offer educational and recreational programs including:
- Guided nature walks
- Wildlife presentations
- Evening amphitheater programs
- Children’s activities
Check the park office or bulletin boards for the current schedule during your visit.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the lake activities, Locust Lake State Park offers numerous opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor recreation.
Seasonal Activities
Summer
- Swimming at the beach
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Fishing for trout and bass
- Camping under the stars
Fall
- Leaf peeping and photography
- Bird watching for migratory species
- Hiking through colorful forests
- Hunting in designated areas
Winter
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing on trails
- Ice fishing (when conditions permit)
- Wildlife tracking in snow
Wildlife Watching
Locust Lake is home to diverse wildlife including:
- Over 100 bird species, including red-shouldered hawks, great-horned owls, and ospreys
- White-tailed deer, black bears, and foxes
- Turtles, frogs, and salamanders
- Butterflies and other pollinators
Geocaching
Several geocaches are hidden throughout the park, offering a fun treasure-hunting activity for visitors of all ages. Download a geocaching app before your visit to participate in this high-tech scavenger hunt.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Locust Lake State Park enhances the experience for everyone.
Safety Tips
- Swim only in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty
- Wear life jackets when boating (required for children under 12)
- Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and to protect sensitive habitats
- Store food securely when camping to avoid attracting wildlife
- Be aware of weather conditions, especially during summer thunderstorms
- Carry water and sun protection during warm weather
Park Etiquette
- Pack out all trash and recyclables
- Keep pets leashed and clean up after them (pets are not allowed on the beach)
- Observe quiet hours in the campground (9 PM to 8 AM)
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance
- Follow “Leave No Trace” principles
Get Involved: Consider supporting the Friends of Tuscarora and Locust Lake State Parks, a nonprofit organization that helps maintain and improve the park through volunteer work and fundraising.
Visitor Comments About Locust Lake
“We’ve been camping at Locust Lake for over a decade, and it never disappoints. The campsites are well-maintained, and the lake is perfect for our family kayaking adventures. The paved trail around the lake makes it easy for our young children to bike safely while enjoying the scenery.”
“As international visitors, we found Locust Lake to be a perfect introduction to American state parks. The hiking trails offered beautiful views without being too challenging, and we spotted several deer and interesting birds. The fall colors were absolutely spectacular during our October visit.”
“Locust Lake provided the peaceful retreat we needed. The fishing was excellent – caught several trout right from the pier! The campground facilities were clean, and the staff was helpful in recommending local attractions. We’ll definitely return to experience a different season.”
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Information
- Park Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset year-round
- Entrance Fee: None (Pennsylvania state parks are free to enter)
- Contact: Park Office at (570) 467-2404
- Reservations: Campsites can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania DCNR website
What to Pack
- Swimwear and towels (summer)
- Hiking shoes or boots
- Insect repellent (especially May-September)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Binoculars for wildlife watching
- Fishing gear if planning to fish
- Warm layers for evening (even in summer)
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Locust Lake, consider exploring these nearby destinations:
- Tuscarora State Park: Just a few miles away, offering additional hiking and lake activities
- Centralia: The famous abandoned mining town with its perpetual mine fire
- Mountain Valley Golf Course: A scenic 18-hole course in Barnesville
- Second Mountain Sunflowers: Beautiful sunflower fields (seasonal) in Tamaqua
Your Perfect Outdoor Escape Awaits
Locust Lake State Park offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a stunning natural setting. Whether you’re casting a line from the fishing pier, hiking through vibrant fall foliage, or simply unwinding at a lakeside campsite, this hidden gem in Pennsylvania’s Schuylkill County provides memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. With its accessibility, diverse activities, and year-round beauty, Locust Lake deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and discover why generations of visitors continue to return to this peaceful mountain retreat.
The above is subject to change.
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