Are mesmerizing lakes and shores your weakness? Are you craving to go on an adventure that’ll let you dive deeper into the beauty of the Poconos? You are in the right place! The Pocono Mountain region is home to more than 150 picturesque lakes. Each lake offers opportunities for recreation, relaxation and is maintained very well.
Every lake has its unique specialty; some are famous for boating and kayaking, and some for fishing. Some lakes showcase diversity in aquatic life; some are located within the state parks, while others are good for swimming only. However, to make things easy, we have listed out the best lakes in the Poconos. Make sure you have these on your list for your next trip.
1. Gouldsboro Lake
Gouldsboro Lake is a beautiful man-made lake situated in northeastern Pennsylvania. Just a 2-hour drive from New York and New Jersey, it is spread across 250 acres and the deepest point is 8.6 feet. It is a popular spot among its inhabitants and visitors for its evergreen beauty and seasonal charm. During the fall, this place turns into a mythical land and is one of the best places to view fall foliage.The lake is rich in flora and fauna, with multiple activities to take advantage of.
Not to forget, Gouldsboro Lake comes under Goldsboro State Park. It is spread across Wayne and Monroe counties. Gouldsboro Park can be one added advantage if you visit this lake anywhere between sunrise and sunset. Exciting wildlife in Gouldsboro Park and soothing Gouldsboro Lake scenery desperately await your presence.
Things to Do Around Gouldsboro Lake
This charming lake is famous for ice fishing, boating and swimming. Besides multiple activities, one can enjoy boating in a peaceful setting. Let’s look at the best ways to enjoy Gouldsboro Lake.
- Fishing: one can find species like bass, yellow perch, catfish, walleye, pickerel and crappie.
- Boating: Motorboats are strictly prohibited; only electric and non-powered boats, such as kayaks and canoes, etc. ensure a calm retreat.
- Biking and Hiking: There are a few routes, such as the Old Entrance and Old 611 Loop, where you can enjoy hiking and biking.
- Wildlife watching: the state park is home to bears, deer, and several species of birds, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Best Time to Visit
A visit during summer is ideal for enjoying activities such as hiking, boating and swimming. Whereas the months of winter are suitable for ice fishing.
2. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is the biggest lake in the Pocono Mountain region, and the second largest lake in PA. If you’re wondering how big Lake Wallenpaupack? It sits around a humongous 5,700 acres and is 13 miles in length and 60 feet in depth; it has earned a proper name among adventurers and scuba divers. Spending your summer vacations in the backdrop of Lake Wallenpaupack can be the decision you will never regret in your life.
When it comes to activities, watersports such as jet skiing and scuba diving top the list during the summer. On the other hand, ice fishing and ice skating take the front seat during winters. Visitors can go on guided boat tours as well as go on a camping and hiking adventure if you are looking for a breath of fresh air.
Things to Do Around Lake Wallenpaupack
- Indulge in Water sports: one can enjoy a range of activities such as jet skiing, water skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, etc.
- Fishing: Lake Wallenpaupack is native to species of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pickerel, channel catfish, yellow perch, and others.
- Hiking: Shuman Point and Wallenpaupack Creek Trail are ideal for hiking.
- Take Part in Events: The lake hosts a variety of events, such as ice fishing derbies and other seasonal events, to create a sense of community.
Best Time to Visit
During the summer we recommend you enjoy the water activities, while winters are the best for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
3. Lake Harmony
Lake Harmony is one of the most gorgeous and cleanest lakes in the Poconos. It is also a naturally formed glacial lake with crystal clear waters and an ideal destination for cleanliness freaks and nature lovers alike. The lake is spread around an area of 125 acres with an average depth of 18 meters. One can visit the lake any month of the year for a wonderful retreat.
Lake Harmony is home to a huge bandwidth of vacation rentals and resorts; it also boasts an unforgettable nightlife experience with live music and great food. While the town of Lake Harmony is open to the general public, the lake is privately owned and can be accessed only when you book your stay in any resort or a vacation rental nearby.
Things to Do Around Lake Harmony
- Water Activities: Indulge yourself in boat paddling, kayaking, fishing, swimming and jet skiing.
- Fishing: Largemouth bass, trout, yellow perch and smallmouth bass are a few common species you can fish in Lake Harmony.
- Winter sports: with quite a few options of resorts in its vicinity, one can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snow tubing.
- Golfing: You can also have fun golfing in one of the resorts nearby.
Best Time to Visit
Lake Harmony is a year-round destination; you can visit this place in any month and enjoy its allure. But we recommend you visit during the winter season, as you will get a chance to enjoy the winter sports.
4. Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Do you wish to see the mountains, rivers and wildlife parks all around a single destination? Maunch Chunk and Lake Park is a complete package, accommodating nature’s charisma, lake, and mountains in one frame. The lake sits at 330 acres, with a shoreline of 6 miles. It is a serene lake created by a dam and has made its identity among tourists of every temperament and is a major hub for outdoor activities and hiking.
Munch Chunk Lake Park includes every activity from fishing to hiking in a single place. Facilities for every kind of water ride are also available. However, reservations are necessary for boat rentals as they are the most popular ones. Family and sports freaks are more inclined to spend a vacation here, due to the camping facility and the various trails, like for hiking.
Things to Do Around Maunch Chunk Lake Park
- Explore Jim Thorpe: since Jim Thorpe is located in close proximity, you can visit this wonderful place on your way back.
- Boating: Strictly electric and non-powered boats are allowed. Rentals are easily available, so you don’t have to worry about carrying any.
- Fishing: The lake has a huge diversity of fish species like large-mouth bass, chain pickerel, small-mouth bass, bluegill, perch, and other warm-water species.
- Hiking: The switchback and Pisgah trails are the 2 prominent points for hiking here.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the fall; you can witness the beauty of nature in different shades.
5. Brady’s Lake
Brady’s is another man-made lake on our list. It was initially designed to harvest ice; however, as it gained popularity among the locals and tourists, it was later modernized, and more activities were included. Located in Monroe County, it is spread across a whopping 229 acres and has an average depth of 19 feet.
The lake provides opportunities for fishing and boating like any other lake in the Poconos. However, swimming is one specialty that makes it different from other lakes. Brady’s lake is not as long and deep as the other lakes, which makes it a viable option among swimmers.
The surrounding areas of Brady’s Lake are home to a huge variety of wild animals and birds and are also open for hunting during designated seasons.
Things to Do Around Brady’s Lake
- Swimming: Dive in and swim across the clear waters with the perfect backdrop of nature. Since the water is shallow, your kids will love it.
- Fishing: You can catch a wide variety of fish, such as yellow perch, pumpkinseed, bluegill, largemouth bass and others.
- Wildlife spotting: The adjacent areas near the lake are habitats for wildlife and birds, making it the perfect destination for wildlife lovers.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit would be during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and witnessing the foliage.
6. Arrowhead Lake
Arrowhead Lake in the Poconos is a famous gated community that is privately owned. The lake itself is beautiful with open waters; however, the surrounding area attracts more tourists than the actual lake. The visitors are only allowed to visit a one-mile perimeter around the lake, and that too with permission. It is prohibited to visit the place for a picnic or any activity without consent.
Commonly known as “Californian paradise,” the lake resembles actual paradisiacal locations of California. It spans 235 acres and has a maximum depth of 45 feet. The beauty of the lake and the actual amenities provided by the community surrounding it make the spot an ideal place to visit. Heated swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, and a fitness club make Arrowhead a luxury vacation spot.
Things to Do Around Arrowhead Lake
- Boating: Only electrical and non-power boats have the permission to operate. There are also boat rentals available in the vicinity.
- Fishing: the lake is brimmed with a wide variety of fish, like bass, trout and pickerel. Except for trout, all the other fish shall be caught and released back into the water.
- Sports: Since there are a lot of outdoor attractions nearby, one can enjoy playing tennis, golf and ATV rides to feel the adrenaline.
- Attend Events: The community offers a few seasonal and recreational activities. Be sure to take advantage of these during your visit.
Best Time to Visit
The perfect time to visit would be during the fall and spring seasons, as it attracts very few crowds during these months.
Conclusion
Lose yourself in these 6 must-visit lakes in Poconos, to feel the beauty, serenity, and ultimate peace. Not only are these lakes appealing to your eyes but also your soul. Whether you are a couple, family, or just a group of friends, these picturesque lakes will make a permanent impression on your mind.
To extend your joy and happiness during your visit to the lakes, stay with Holidaykeepers. We are pioneers in providing luxury vacation rentals and excellent accommodations that are equipped with best-in-class amenities and are situated in proximity to all the lakes, as well as a few nearby attractions.
Contact us for further guidance.
FAQs
Q: Which are the best lakes in the Poconos for swimming?
A: Brady’s Lake, Gouldsboro Lake and Lake Harmony are the best lakes for swimming in the Poconos.
Q: Are boat and safety equipment rentals available near the lakes in the Poconos?
A: Yes, you can find equipment and boat rentals nearby to all these lakes.
Q: Do we require a permit or a license to fish in these lakes in PA?
A: Yes, in Pennsylvania, you are required to possess a valid license for fishing in the lakes. However, motorized boats for rent are available only at big lakes such as Lake Harmony and Lake Wallenpaupack.
Q: Which lake is best suited for a getaway with family
A: Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Arrowhead Lake and Lake Wallenpaupack offer a wide range of activities and nearby attractions, making them best suitable for families.
