Whipple Dam State Park

For dining options near Whipple Dam State Park, visitors can explore a variety of local restaurants. Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails offers a vibrant atmosphere with American cuisine and specialty martinis. Village Tavern is known for its upscale American eats and extensive wine list. Hoss's Steak & Sea House provides a family-friendly environment with a focus on surf 'n' turf. Kelly's Korner offers a casual dining experience with a variety of American dishes. Lastly, Gigi's Southern Table in nearby State College serves farm-to-fork Southern fare in a rustic-chic setting.

These restaurants cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for casual dining or a more upscale experience, the area around Whipple Dam State Park has plenty to offer.

Each restaurant provides a unique dining experience, from cozy atmospheres to outdoor seating options, making them ideal for both locals and visitors.

For accommodations near Whipple Dam State Park, several hotels are available in the surrounding area. The Comfort Inn in Huntingdon offers straightforward lodging with an indoor pool and free hot breakfast. The Wyndham Garden State College provides a casual stay with golf course views and two pools. The Hilton Garden Inn State College features a modern design with a landscaped courtyard and a pool.

These hotels offer a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast options, making them suitable for both leisure and business travelers. They are conveniently located to allow easy access to Whipple Dam State Park and other local attractions.

Whether you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere or a hotel with additional amenities like a spa, there are options available to suit different needs.

Whipple Dam State Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes three large picnic pavilions and numerous picnic tables, all situated in forest-covered areas close to the beach and lake. These pavilions can be reserved in advance for a fee, while unreserved ones are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The park also features hand-operated and pressurized drinking fountains, charcoal stoves, and restrooms throughout the grounds.

For water activities, a boat rental service is available during the summer season, offering canoes, paddleboats, and rowboats. Additionally, a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier ensures that all visitors can enjoy fishing in the lake.

The park's amenities are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Whipple Dam State Park offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Swimming is a popular activity during the warmer months, with a 300-foot sand beach open from late May to mid-September. The lake is also ideal for boating, with electric motors allowed, and fishing, as it is stocked with trout and other species.

For nature enthusiasts, the park provides excellent birdwatching opportunities, with a variety of bird species to spot throughout the year. The Whipple Lake Trail, a 3-mile loop hike, is perfect for those looking to explore the natural surroundings.

During the summer, the park hosts a Summer Concert Series on the beach, adding to the lively atmosphere and providing entertainment for visitors.

Whipple Dam State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the facilities. The park includes a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier, allowing everyone to participate in fishing activities. Additionally, the picnic areas and restrooms are designed to be accessible, providing a comfortable experience for visitors with mobility needs.

The park's trails and pathways are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, specific details about wheelchair rentals or additional accessibility services are not provided.

Overall, the park's accessible features enhance the inclusivity of the outdoor experience for visitors of all abilities.

Parking at Whipple Dam State Park is generally accessible and convenient. The park offers ample parking spaces near the beach and picnic areas, ensuring that visitors can easily access the facilities. While specific parking fees are not detailed, the park's layout allows for a straightforward and stress-free parking experience.

The proximity of parking areas to the beach and other amenities means that visitors can quickly move between different parts of the park. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for families and those with mobility needs.

Overall, the parking facilities at Whipple Dam State Park are well-suited to handle the volume of visitors during peak seasons.

Whipple Dam State Park has an interesting history, named after Osgood M. Whipple, who built a dam and sawmill on the site in the late 19th century. The park's lake was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, reflecting the CCC's efforts to develop recreational areas across the United States.

The park's architecture and construction are notable for their rustic style, blending seamlessly into the natural landscape. This design philosophy emphasizes harmony with nature, making the park a unique example of CCC work.

Visitors can enjoy photographing the park's changing seasons, capturing the diverse beauty of the area throughout the year.

Whipple Dam State Park is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. Nearby, the Greenwood Furnace State Park offers additional outdoor activities and scenic views, just 10 miles away. The Shaver's Creek Environmental Center, located about 4 miles from the park, provides educational programs and wildlife viewing opportunities.

For those interested in scenic overlooks, the Rothrock State Forest offers spots like the Stone Mountain Hawk Watch and Indian Lookout, which are perfect for nature enthusiasts.

These nearby attractions enhance the overall experience of visiting Whipple Dam State Park by offering a broader range of outdoor and educational activities.