Harveys Lake

The area around Harveys Lake features a diverse range of restaurants catering to different tastes and preferences. Rich & Charlottes Bar & Grill is a popular spot for casual dining, offering outdoor seating and a cozy atmosphere. It is well-known for its bar games and great cocktails.

For those looking for a hearty breakfast or American cuisine, Lakeside Skillet is a great choice, offering a cozy setting with a fireplace. Jonathans Restaurant provides a more upscale dining experience with a great wine list and romantic ambiance.

Grotto Pizza & the Grand Slam Sports Bar is another favorite, offering a family-friendly environment with live music and a wide selection of Italian dishes.

While there are limited hotels directly on Harveys Lake, nearby options provide comfortable accommodations. The Beaumont Inn is a refined boutique hotel located about 13 miles from Harveys Lake. It offers upscale dining, a sophisticated bar, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it an ideal choice for those seeking luxury and tranquility.

Unfortunately, specific hotels directly on Harveys Lake are not listed, but visitors often choose accommodations in nearby towns for convenience.

Sunset Beach at Harveys Lake offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The beach features a roped swimming area, a grass-covered sunbathing space, and certified lifeguards during operating hours. Additionally, there is a 24-foot pavilion and a bathroom/first aid office, providing comfort and safety for beachgoers.

For those interested in water activities, kayak berths are available for rent, allowing members to securely store their kayaks. The beach also hosts events like the annual Arts Festival, which includes vendors, food, and entertainment.

The Harveys Lake Beach Association manages these facilities, ensuring a welcoming environment for members and guests.

Harveys Lake offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Swimming is a popular pastime, especially at designated beaches like Sunset Beach. The lake is also renowned for fishing, with various species of fish available. Water skiing and scuba diving are other activities that attract adventure seekers.

For those interested in more leisurely pursuits, the lake's scenic surroundings make it perfect for boating or simply enjoying a picnic along the shoreline. The area also hosts cultural events, such as the Arts Festival, which adds to the lake's appeal as a family-friendly destination.

Many facilities around Harveys Lake offer accessibility features. Restaurants like Jonathans Restaurant and Grotto Pizza & the Grand Slam Sports Bar provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, restrooms, and seating. Similarly, Rich & Charlottes Bar & Grill has a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

However, specific information about beach accessibility at Harveys Lake is limited, but efforts are generally made to ensure that public areas are accessible to all visitors.

Parking around Harveys Lake is generally convenient, with many restaurants and beaches offering free parking lots or street parking. Sunset Beach, for example, is easily accessible with ample parking nearby. The lake's shoreline is encircled by Pennsylvania Route 415, making it easy to find parking spots along the road.

However, during peak summer months or special events, parking might become limited, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.

Harveys Lake has a rich history, dating back to its accidental discovery by Benjamin Harvey in 1781. It became a major resort in the early 20th century, attracting prominent figures like Theodore Roosevelt. The lake is also known for its environmental challenges, including algae blooms, but efforts have been made to restore its health.

The lake's unique glacial origin and its role as the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania by volume make it a fascinating natural wonder. Additionally, the surrounding borough of Harveys Lake hosts various community events throughout the year, enhancing its appeal as a vibrant community.

Harveys Lake is surrounded by natural beauty and offers several attractions. The lake itself is a major attraction, providing opportunities for water sports and relaxation. The nearby Back Mountain region offers scenic hiking trails and picturesque views, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Historically, the area was a popular resort destination, with remnants of its past glory still visible in old hotels and amusement parks. The lake's proximity to Wilkes-Barre also makes it a convenient base for exploring other regional attractions.