Keystone State Park
Keystone State Park encompasses 1,200 acres in Westmoreland County centered around the scenic 78-acre Keystone Lake. The park preserves the history of the coal mining industry - the lake was created in 1909 by the Keystone Coal and Coke Company to wash coal from nearby mines. Today, the park offers excellent fishing, swimming at a sandy beach, and 8 miles of diverse hiking trails. The park features modern cabins, a campground, and year-round recreation including cross-country skiing in winter. Its proximity to Pittsburgh makes it a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Keystone State Park welcomes leashed dogs on trails, campground, cabins; not allowed on swimming beaches/water during swim season. Clean up.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors praise Keystone's beautiful lake, sandy family beach, great bass/trout fishing, comfortable modern cabins, diverse trails, and easy Pittsburgh access.
Tips from Visitors
- The swimming beach is one of the nicest in the region - arrive early on summer weekends
- Fishing is excellent for bass, trout, and panfish - PA fishing license required
- Only electric and non-powered boats allowed on the lake - no gas motors
- Modern cabins book up months in advance for summer - reserve early
- Lakeside Loop Trail is perfect for families and ADA accessible
- The park will undergo lake rehabilitation 2026-2027 with temporary lake drawdown
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Keystone State Park:
- Idlewild & SoakZoneHistoric amusement park perfect for families with young children, founded in 187810 miles away
- Fort LigonierFrench and Indian War fort reconstruction with museum and annual reenactments15 miles away
- Bushy Run BattlefieldSite of pivotal 1763 battle during Pontiac's War with visitor center and trails18 miles away
Things to Do at Keystone State Park
Hiking Trails
Lakeside Loop Trail
EasyADA-accessible paved trail encircling Keystone Lake passing through various ecosystems. Perfect for families, biking allowed on this trail only. Offers continuous lake views.
Stone Lodge Trail
StrenuousYellow-blazed loop starting from visitor center with steep climb winding through hardwoods to ridgetop conifers. Most challenging trail in the park.
Davis Run Trail
ModerateBlue diamond-marked loop meandering through wetlands before reaching upland forest of mixed conifers and mature hardwoods. Good wildlife viewing.
Strawcutter Trail
EasyGreen diamond-marked trail passing wetlands, meadows, and pine forest. Excellent for butterflies and native wildflowers in summer. Gentle terrain.
Directions
Keystone State Park is located off US Route 22 near New Alexandria in Westmoreland County. From the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), take Exit 75 (New Stanton) and follow US Route 22 east for approximately 10 miles. Turn left onto Keystone Park Road and follow signs to the park. From the east, take US Route 22 west from Blairsville, turn right onto Keystone Park Road. GPS users should use: 1150 Keystone Park Road, Derry, PA 15627.