Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Pennsylvania

Presque Isle State Park - Barracks Beach is a picturesque destination located in Erie, Pennsylvania. The beach is approximately 1.5 miles long and features soft, white sand, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. As part of Presque Isle State Park, it offers a serene environment with scenic views of Lake Erie. The park itself is a National Natural Landmark, known for its diverse ecosystems and rich maritime history. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking, while exploring the nearby attractions like the Presque Isle Lighthouse and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and a concession stand, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. The surrounding area offers a range of dining options and accommodations, making it a perfect spot for both day trips and extended stays.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Presque Isle State Park - Barracks Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Lake Erie's shores.

Beltzville State Park, located in Towamensing Township, Pennsylvania, offers a vibrant beach experience along the shores of Beltzville Lake. The park is situated about 5 miles east of Lehighton and features a 525-foot sand beach that is popular for swimming from late May to mid-September. The beach area is known for its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, with activities like grilling and loud music. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking on the park's 15 miles of trails. The park's elevation at 633 feet provides scenic views and a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park was developed around the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Beltzville Dam on Pohopoco Creek, transforming the area into a thriving recreational hub. The nearby town of Lehighton offers additional amenities and services for visitors. Beltzville State Park is a must-visit for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure in the Pocono Mountains.

The park's history dates back to 1972, when it was officially opened. It has since become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a range of activities from water sports to nature exploration.

Budny Beach, located at Presque Isle State Park in Millcreek Township, Pennsylvania, is a picturesque destination offering a serene beach experience. The beach is part of a larger park system known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. It features a beach house with changing areas, restrooms, and a food and beverage concession, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports. The beach is also close to several attractions, including the Sunset Point area, popular for kite flying and wind surfing.

The surrounding area of Presque Isle State Park is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, with activities like biking, fishing, and hiking available. The park's proximity to Erie provides easy access to additional amenities and attractions. Overall, Budny Beach offers a relaxing and engaging experience for those looking to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful setting.

The beach is part of a smoke-free zone, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for all visitors. With its scenic views and diverse activities, Budny Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Presque Isle area.

Bald Eagle State Park, located in Howard, Pennsylvania, offers a serene and natural getaway with its stunning 1,730-acre Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir. The park is nestled within the broader Bald Eagle Valley, providing breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming during the warmer months, while winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing and ice fishing. The park's diverse landscapes include forests, fields, and wetlands, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The park's unique position at the intersection of the Allegheny Plateau and the Ridge and Valley area of Pennsylvania creates a fascinating geological backdrop. With over 5,900 acres to explore, visitors can immerse themselves in nature through guided walks, environmental education programs, and hands-on activities.

The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, situated within the park, provides a luxurious and eco-friendly lodging experience, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the park's many attractions and activities.

Midway Beach, located at the south end of Conneaut Lake in Pennsylvania, offers a picturesque setting perfect for family outings. The beach features 200 feet of soft, light brown sand and emerald-green waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. With its rich history dating back to the early 1900s, Midway Beach has become a cherished destination for generations. The surrounding area is teeming with local wildlife, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts to spot various bird species or deer, especially near the hiking trails of Pymatuning State Park.
The beach itself is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and picnic spots, though visitors are advised to bring beach umbrellas for shade. Nearby activities include paddleboarding and exploring stunning trails, enhancing the overall family-friendly experience.
Midway Beach is known for its consistently clean water, ensuring a safe swimming environment for families. However, it does not have lifeguards on duty, so visitors should be mindful of tide patterns and current conditions.

Pleasant Valley Beach, located in Muddy Creek Township near Portersville, Pennsylvania, is a serene retreat known for its blend of sandy shoreline and wide grassy areas perfect for picnics and relaxation. This beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere where visitors can enjoy warm water during the summer and safe swimming areas for children. The setting is spacious, ensuring it rarely feels crowded, making it ideal for those seeking both social interaction and solitude. Dogs are welcome, often seen frolicking along the sidelines, adding to the lively, yet peaceful vibe of the beach.
Visitors appreciate the clean environment and the availability of natural shade, which encourages early arrival for the best spots. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers picturesque views of Lake Arthur, a hub for numerous water activities. Whether you're there to relax, picnic, or engage in water sports, Pleasant Valley Beach provides a well-rounded experience that connects you with nature in a welcoming, accessible setting.
The community spirit shines at events like the Regatta, where music, food, and water sports come together for a festive celebration. Overall, Pleasant Valley Beach is a gem in Pennsylvania, combining natural beauty, safety, and diverse recreational opportunities that appeal to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Lakeview Beach, located on the North Shore of Lake Arthur within Moraine State Park in Portersville, Pennsylvania, is a 656-foot sand beach offering serene waterfront views and family-friendly recreation. Open daily from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day (8:00 A.M. to sunset), it features amenities like showers, changing facilities, and a snack bar, making it ideal for day trips. Visitors praise its sandy shoreline, calm waters suited for young children, and scenic vistas of sailboats gliding across the lake[1][3][5]. The beach’s proximity to trails and picnic areas adds to its appeal as a versatile outdoor destination[2][4].

Smithfield Beach, nestled in Smithfield Township, Pennsylvania, is a serene natural haven along the Delaware River. This charming beach stretches over 2,000 feet, offering a light tan sandy area perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy picnics in designated areas with restrooms nearby, making it an ideal spot for family outings and nature enthusiasts alike.
The beach is part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, providing access to various recreational activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Lifeguards are present on weekends during the summer months, ensuring a safe swimming experience. The area's scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
With its convenient location near East Stroudsburg, Smithfield Beach is easily accessible by car or public transportation, offering a delightful escape into nature's splendor.

Poe Valley State Park, located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, offers a serene and natural getaway. The park is nestled between Big Poe Mountain and Little Poe Mountain, creating a picturesque valley setting. At its heart lies Poe Lake, a 25-acre man-made lake built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937. The lake provides a tranquil spot for swimming, fishing, and boating, with electric motors only allowed. The park's scenic trails connect to the extensive network of Bald Eagle State Forest, offering opportunities for hiking and cross-country skiing. The beach area is open from late May to early September, providing a relaxing summer destination.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park's rustic charm and natural beauty make it an ideal retreat for those seeking outdoor adventure and tranquility.
Poe Valley State Park is about 17 miles east of State College, making it accessible for both locals and visitors to the area.

Mauch Chunk Lake Park, located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, is a picturesque county park that offers a variety of activities and stunning natural beauty. The park features a 345-acre lake, perfect for boating and fishing, with restrictions to non-powered watercraft and electric motors only. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the designated beach area during the summer months, with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The park also offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is well-maintained and provides a serene escape from urban life.
The park's history is tied to the former town of Mauch Chunk, now known as Jim Thorpe, adding a layer of historical charm to its natural attractions. The beach area includes amenities like a food stand, playground, and beach pavilion, enhancing the visitor experience.
Overall, Mauch Chunk Lake Park is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of nature, recreation, and history in a beautiful setting.

Nockamixon State Park is a scenic destination located in northern Bucks County, Pennsylvania, offering a diverse range of activities and natural beauty. The park spans 5,283 acres and features Lake Nockamixon, a 1,450-acre artificial reservoir that is a hub for boating and fishing. While swimming is not allowed in the lake, visitors can enjoy a swimming pool within the park. The park's rolling hills and varied landscapes make it ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is also a popular spot for picnicking and offers several picnic areas with amenities like charcoal grills and modern restrooms.
Nockamixon State Park is rich in history, with several historic Native American sites and a 100-year-old youth hostel, the Weisel Hostel. The park is accessible year-round, with some facilities operating on seasonal schedules.
Its proximity to Philadelphia makes it a great day trip or vacation spot for those seeking outdoor adventures and tranquility.

Palmyra Township Public Beach is the only public beach on Lake Wallenpaupack, offering a serene and family-friendly atmosphere. Located in Hawley, Pennsylvania, it provides a tranquil setting for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation. The beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. Visitors can enjoy activities like volleyball, swimming lessons, and fishing. The beach also features picnic tables, charcoal grills, and a snack bar for convenience.
The beach is approximately 250 feet long and features soft white sand, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and enjoying the lake's gentle waves. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of Lake Wallenpaupack, a man-made lake covering over 5,700 acres.
The beach's proximity to local attractions and events, such as the Wally Lake Fest, adds to its appeal as a summer destination.

Black Moshannon State Park, located in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, is a stunning natural area that spans 3,394 acres of forest and wetlands. The park is surrounded by over 43,000 acres of the Moshannon State Forest, creating a remote and wild setting perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. One of its main attractions is the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake, known for its tea-colored waters due to the presence of sphagnum moss in the surrounding bogs. The lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The park also features a picturesque beach with fine, dark sand, making it a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
The park's unique ecosystem supports a variety of plant life, including carnivorous plants and orchids, and is part of an Important Bird Area. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and camping amidst the beautiful scenery.
The park's history dates back to the early 20th century when it was a site for picnics and camping, and it continues to evolve with modern amenities while preserving its natural beauty.

Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is a family-friendly recreational facility located in South Londonderry Township, Pennsylvania. It offers a serene getaway with eight acres of beach, picnic groves, and a mountain stream-fed lake. The beach is known for its zero-entry shoreline, making it accessible for families with young children. Visitors can enjoy swimming, diving, and other water activities while surrounded by a relaxed atmosphere. The area is also close to Hershey and Lancaster, providing easy access to additional attractions.

The facility is open daily from late spring through Labor Day, offering a perfect summer day trip destination. It prides itself on providing a safe, clean, and courteous environment for all visitors. Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is part of the broader Mount Gretna community, which is celebrated for its scenic beauty and vibrant arts scene.

The community hosts various events, including the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show, which attracts visitors from across the region. Overall, Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach combines natural beauty with recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Gouldsboro State Park, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, spans 2,800 acres and features the 250-acre Gouldsboro Lake. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, with a sandy beach area open from Memorial Day weekend to mid-September. The park offers four hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, and is home to diverse wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park's tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and families alike.
The park is situated near Tobyhanna State Park and offers easy access via PA 507 and I-380. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with specific hours for the park office and other facilities.
Gouldsboro State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting amidst its dense forests and bogs.

Harveys Lake, located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, is a picturesque natural lake known for its serene beauty and recreational activities. It is the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania by volume and the second-largest by surface area, covering approximately 621.5 acres. The lake is surrounded by hills and offers stunning views, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area around the lake has a rich history, dating back to its discovery in 1781, and has been a major resort destination since the early 20th century.

The lake offers a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, water skiing, and scuba diving, making it an ideal spot for families and adventure seekers alike. The surrounding borough of Harveys Lake provides a charming setting with restaurants, beaches, and boat launchings along its shoreline.

Harveys Lake is also known for its environmental challenges, including historical algae blooms, but efforts have been made to reduce pollution and preserve its natural beauty.