Gouldsboro State Park
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Gouldsboro State Park is a 2,880-acre park in the Pocono Mountains region of northeastern Pennsylvania, centered around the scenic 250-acre Gouldsboro Lake. The park offers a diverse mix of recreational activities including swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The lake was created in the 1950s by damming a small stream, and the surrounding forests feature mixed hardwoods and hemlocks typical of the Pocono plateau. The park's trail system connects to neighboring Tobyhanna State Park, creating an extensive network for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The peaceful setting and family-friendly facilities make this a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the Poconos.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on trails, campground, and day-use areas; not on beach/swimming areas. Frank Gantz Trail, water, shade; clean up.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Gouldsboro's quiet, family-friendly sandy beach and calm lake, good bass/pickerel fishing, well-maintained campsites, Frank Gantz trail, winter activities.
Tips from Visitors
- Frank Gantz Trail connects to Tobyhanna State Park for extended hiking
- The swimming beach is less crowded than nearby Tobyhanna on summer weekends
- Only electric motors and non-powered boats allowed on the lake
- Ice fishing is popular in winter - lake typically freezes by January
- Snowmobile trails connect to the regional trail system
- Camping fills up quickly on holiday weekends - reserve early
Amenities
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Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Gouldsboro State Park:
- Tobyhanna State ParkConnected via Frank Gantz Trail, offering additional lake recreation and camping3 miles away
- Promised Land State ParkLarger Pocono park with two lakes and extensive trails12 miles away
- Claws 'N' Paws Wild Animal ParkFamily-friendly zoo featuring exotic animals and interactive experiences15 miles away
Things to Do at Gouldsboro State Park
Camping at Gouldsboro State Park
No overnight camping; day-use only sunrise–sunset. Picnic areas (tables/grills/restrooms); group pavilions reservable. Fires only in grills. Use nearby parks.
Hiking Trails
Old Woods Road Trail
EasyEasy loop trail circling through mixed hardwood forest around the lake perimeter. Gentle terrain suitable for all skill levels with lake views.
Prospect Rock Trail
ModerateTrail leading to scenic overlook with views of Gouldsboro Lake. Moderate climb through hemlock and hardwood forest.
Frank Gantz Trail
ModerateConnector trail linking Gouldsboro State Park to Tobyhanna State Park. Winds through Pocono plateau forest, creating extended hiking opportunities between the two parks.
Directions
From I-84, take Exit 26 for I-380 South. Follow I-380 to Exit 8 for PA-507 North. Follow PA-507 North for about 10 miles. The park entrance will be on your left. From Scranton, take PA-307 North to PA-435 North, then PA-507 North to the park.