Beltzville State Park
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Beltzville State Park encompasses 3,002 acres in the southern foothills of the Poconos, centered around the impressive 949-acre Beltzville Lake. Pohopoco Creek, an excellent trout stream, feeds the lake which serves as an important rest stop for migrating waterfowl and a premier destination for boaters and anglers. The park was developed through collaboration among the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of State Parks, and Pennsylvania Game Commission. With 15 miles of trails varying from easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, the park offers diverse hiking experiences. Popular trails lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The park provides comprehensive recreation including swimming at a guarded beach, excellent fishing, boating, camping, and year-round activities.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on 15 miles of trails and lakeshore (not guarded swimming beach). Water access; clean up.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Scenic Pocono park with guarded beach (crowded weekends), 15 miles trails including 4.5‑mile waterfall loop, excellent fishing, near Jim Thorpe.
Tips from Visitors
- Christman, Falls, and Cove Ridge Trails combo is the most popular hike at 4.5 miles
- Waterfalls are best viewed in spring during high water
- Guarded swimming beach operates Memorial Day through Labor Day
- Lake is excellent for bass, walleye, and trout fishing
- Pohopoco Creek offers quality trout fishing - PA license required
- Beach parking fills up early on summer weekends - arrive by 10am
Amenities
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Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Beltzville State Park:
- Jim Thorpe Historic TownVictorian town with historic architecture, shops, restaurants, and scenic railroad8 miles away
- Lehigh Gorge State ParkDramatic river gorge with 26-mile rail trail and whitewater rafting10 miles away
- Glen Onoko FallsSeries of spectacular waterfalls in Lehigh Gorge (trail currently closed)12 miles away
Things to Do at Beltzville State Park
Camping at Beltzville State Park
Beltzville State Park is day use only; no overnight camping. Picnic areas/pavilions (reserve), sunrise–sunset, campfires only in grills, pets leashed.
Hiking Trails
Christman, Falls, and Cove Ridge Trails
EasyMost popular trail combination in the park featuring waterfalls, lake views, and wooded paths. Easy terrain suitable for most hikers with seasonal waterfall highlights.
Preachers Camp Trail
ModerateLongest trail in the park with most elevation gain. Winds through forest with some challenging sections and scenic ridge views.
Sawmill Trail
EasyPopular trail for hiking and running with gentle terrain. Well-maintained path through woods with good trail surface.
Directions
From I-476 (Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension), take Exit 74 (Mahoning Valley). Follow US-209 South for about 3 miles. Turn left onto Pohopoco Drive and follow signs to the park. From Lehighton, take US-209 North to Pohopoco Drive.