Marsh Creek State Park

Chester County, Pennsylvania, USA

Established 1974

1,784 acres

Marsh Creek State Park is a scenic recreational area in Chester County, Pennsylvania, centered around the 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake. The park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. The park is a popular destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and water sports lovers, with modern facilities and beautiful natural surroundings.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Dogs allowed on trails/most outdoors; must be leashed (6-foot), owners clean up; banned from swim areas, buildings, wildlife.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Marsh Creek’s large lake for boating/fishing, scenic multi-use trails, clean picnic areas, abundant wildlife; pool crowds weekends.

Tips from Visitors

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking and enjoy quieter trails.
Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as shade can be limited in some areas.
Check the park’s website for current trail conditions, boating regulations, and swimming area updates.
Pack insect repellent, especially during warmer months when ticks and mosquitoes are active.
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or boats at the marina for a fun experience on the lake.
Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and respecting wildlife.
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails can be rocky or muddy after rain.

Amenities

Kids Playgroundboat rentalspicnic areasswimming poolrestroomsfishing pierboat launchaccessible parkingpavilionsconcession standhorseback riding trailskayak/canoe launch

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Marsh Creek State Park:

Struble Trail
A scenic multi-use trail for walking, running, and biking along the East Branch Brandywine Creek.
5 miles away
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
A restored 19th-century iron plantation offering tours and educational programs.
17 miles away
French Creek State Park
A large state park with hiking, camping, and two lakes for boating and fishing.
20 miles away

Things to Do at Marsh Creek State Park

boatingfishinghikingbirdwatchingpicnickingsailingkayakinghorseback ridingswimming (in pool)ice fishingcross-country skiing

Camping at Marsh Creek State Park

Marsh Creek State Park: no overnight camping; day use only (picnicking, hiking, boating, fishing). Picnic areas, grills, restrooms; pavilions reservable.

Hiking Trails

Marsh Creek State Park offers scenic day hiking with well-maintained trails winding through woodlands, meadows, and along the lake. Hikers enjoy a variety of routes suitable for all skill levels, with popular paths like the Lakeside and Hopewell trails providing beautiful water views and opportunities for birdwatching. The park is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and clear signage. Wildlife sightings are common, and the trails are generally not too crowded, making it a relaxing spot for nature lovers.

Marsh Creek Lake Loop Trail

Moderate

A scenic loop trail that circles Marsh Creek Lake, offering views of the water, forest, and wildlife.

7 mi

3-4 hours

350 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Lakeside Trail

Easy

A mostly flat trail running along the eastern shore of Marsh Creek Lake, great for birdwatching and families.

3.5 mi

1-1.5 hours

100 ft gain

Easy difficulty

West Side Trail

Moderate

A wooded trail on the west side of the park with rolling hills and occasional lake views.

4 mi

2 hours

250 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Boundary Trail

Moderate

A longer trail that follows the park's boundary, passing through forests and open meadows.

6 mi

2.5-3 hours

400 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Hilltop Trail

Easy

A short trail leading to a hilltop with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

2 mi

45 minutes

180 ft gain

Easy difficulty

Directions

From PA Turnpike Exit 312 (Downingtown), take PA 100 North for about 2 miles. Turn right onto Park Road and continue for 2 miles to the park entrance.