Summer is here in full swing, and it is HOT! Beating the heat can be daunting, but staying inside is for the winter months! Swimming and playing in the water are some of the best ways to entertain children of all ages, and enjoy being outside while also staying cool. Our local area has many wonderful places to swim in nature, and we’ve compiled a list of six of the very best!
Lake Jean @ Rickett’s Glen State Park
Originally named after Colonel R. Bruce Rickett’s first daughter, this beautiful 245-acre lake spans areas in both Luzerne and Sullivan Counties. Its water is fairly shallow, with an average depth of about 6 feet, making it very approachable and swim-friendly to kids of all ages. The lake boasts a clean, attractive beach with lots of room to swim, places to picnic or purchase food from the concessions stand, as well as summer boat rentals. This is a perfect place to plan a wet and wild day out!
The Haystacks @ Loyalsock Trail
Near World’s End State Park, The Haystacks is a rocky, rapids style area where you can swim, climb and play. The trail is a bit challenging at the beginning but fairly easy thereafter, and is approximately 4 miles round trip, so the excursion would not be recommended for very young children. The trek is well worth it though, as the rapids and pools are extremely fun to slide down and swim around in. Bring your hiking shoes or sneakers, a bathing suit and towel, and a picnic lunch and enjoy an amazing day in the natural beauty of Sullivan County.
Be sure to explore our Kids’ Directory to find other outdoor places to take the kids!
Kocher Park & Johnson Flats
A Bloomsburg favorite among locals and visitors alike, Kocher Park is owned by the Columbia County Conservation district. It is free, open to the public, and pet friendly. The creek is a fun and exciting way to spend time in nature, swimming and playing on the banks near the water. The trails are well maintained and there is also access for boating and fishing. Pack a picnic and eat and relax in the Matt Kisner pavilion, where you can stay shaded while you enjoy your meal.
Sand Spring Lake @ Hickory Run State Park
Nestled in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains, the almost 16,000 acre state park in Carbon County has hiking trails, several streams, and is home to Boulder Field, a striking National Natural Landmark. But perhaps the best summer activity available at Hickory Run is Sand Spring Lake, which features a sandy beach as well as a snack bar with lunch items, drinks, and ice cream. Splash and play in the lovely lake and make for a great summer day!
Halfway Lake @ Raymond B. Winter State Park
Found in Union County in the Bald Eagle State Forest (Mifflinburg), this beautiful lake is complete with a white sand beach, playground area, and concessions. The focal point of the lake-which is filled by spring-fed mountain streams-is a hand-laid, native sandstone dam called Halfway Lake Dam, which showcases a beautiful waterfall in this lovely setting. The state park is also has biking, camping, and fishing opportunities as well as a picnic area, pavilion, and a beach volleyball court.
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Tuscarora State Park
Located in Schuylkill County in Barnesville, PA, Tuscarora State Park is home to a beautiful lake where families can swim, picnic, boat, play on the playground, and fish. The pavilion makes a great place to eat or snack, and there are also camp grounds for those who wish to make a weekend of the fun! The lake features a scenic view of Locust Mountain, which looks as though it falls right into the south side of the lake.