Pymatuning State Park
Pymatuning State Park is Pennsylvania's largest state park at 16,892 acres, featuring the massive 17,088-acre Pymatuning Reservoir that spans the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. The park is famous for the Spillway where "ducks walk on fish" - a unique spectacle where carp gather so densely that waterfowl appear to walk across their backs. As one of Pennsylvania's most visited state parks, Pymatuning offers world-class fishing for walleye, muskellunge, bass, and other species. The park provides extensive camping facilities and is a premier destination for water-based recreation in northwestern Pennsylvania.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed in campgrounds and on limited trails; no swimming beaches; abundant shoreline for swimming; clean up; summer crowds.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Pymatuning for exceptional fishing, the Spillway carp-feeding spectacle, roomy boating, large RV campgrounds, and seldom-crowded feel.
Tips from Visitors
- Visit the Spillway to see the unique phenomenon of ducks walking on dense schools of carp
- Pennsylvania or Ohio fishing license works anywhere on the lake when fishing from a boat
- Shore fishing requires a license from the state where you're located
- Excellent walleye and muskie fishing - Pymatuning is one of Pennsylvania's premier fishing lakes
- Multiple campgrounds are available - Jamestown Campground is largest with best facilities
- Ice fishing is extremely popular in winter when the lake freezes - shanty villages appear
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Pymatuning State Park:
- Pymatuning SpillwayFamous attraction where dense schools of carp create the spectacle of 'ducks walking on fish'Within the park
- Pymatuning State Park (Ohio)Ohio side of the reservoir offering additional camping, trails, and lake accessWithin the park
- Conneaut LakePennsylvania's largest natural lake with historic amusement park12 miles away
Things to Do at Pymatuning State Park
Camping at Pymatuning State Park
Pymatuning State Park: tent, RV (electric/full-hookup), and modern cabins; 400+ sites; reserve online/phone April–October; toilets, showers, pets allowed.
Hiking Trails
Whispering Pines Trail
EasyShort easy trail through pine forest. Good for families and quick nature walks near campground.
Beaver Dam Trail
EasyEasy loop trail on the Ohio side of the lake. Gentle terrain suitable for all skill levels with some lake views.
Directions
Pymatuning State Park is located in northwestern Pennsylvania along the Ohio border. From I-79, take Exit 141 (Meadville) and follow US Route 322 west approximately 15 miles to Jamestown, then follow Williamsfield Road to the park office. From I-80, take Exit 4B (Sharon) and follow PA Route 18 north to US Route 322 east to the park. Multiple access points exist along the extensive shoreline. GPS: 2660 Williamsfield Road, Jamestown, PA 16134.