Most Polluted Beaches in Pennsylvania

Erie Bluffs State Park is a 587-acre park located along the Lake Erie shoreline in western Erie County, Pennsylvania. It is about 12 miles west of the city of Erie and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The park features one mile of undeveloped shoreline with 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie, providing stunning views of the lake. It is a day-use park, with activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating available. The park's diverse ecosystems include black oak savannas and Great Lakes region sand barren ecosystems, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking solitude in nature.

The park's trails, totaling 5.16 miles, are suitable for hikers of all levels and offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape. While swimming is not permitted, the park offers a 24-hour boat launch for small watercraft. The park is open year-round, making it accessible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during winter months.

Erie Bluffs State Park is a relatively new addition to the Pennsylvania state park system, acquired from the Western PA Conservancy in 2004. Its unique landscape and natural features make it an attractive destination for those interested in exploring the beauty of Lake Erie's shoreline.

Erie Beach 11, also known as Kohler Beach, is located within Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that extends into Lake Erie. This beach is particularly popular for families due to its shallow waters and large, flat sandy area. It features a playground, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and food vendors, making it an ideal spot for family outings. The beach is smoke-free and offers a serene environment with scenic views of the surrounding waters. Presque Isle State Park is a National Natural Landmark, known for its diverse habitats and wildlife, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

Presque Isle State Park offers a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, though swimming is only permitted during the summer months when lifeguards are present. The park's unique location creates Presque Isle Bay, a significant harbor for the city of Erie, attracting both commercial and recreational boats.

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center, located within the park, serves as an educational hub, offering insights into the park's ecosystem and conservation efforts. It features interactive exhibits and a 75-foot observation tower, providing panoramic views of the area.