Tuscarora State Park
Tuscarora State Park is a 1,618-acre park in Schuylkill County centered around the 96-acre Tuscarora Lake. Located in Pennsylvania's anthracite coal region, the park was developed on land reclaimed from strip mining, demonstrating nature's resilience and successful land restoration. The park offers a complete outdoor recreation package with swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and over 9 miles of hiking trails. The lake, created by damming Locust Creek, is stocked with trout and provides excellent fishing for bass and panfish. The surrounding forests have regenerated beautifully, with diverse wildlife now inhabiting what was once devastated mining land. The park's success story makes it a point of pride for the region.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed on trails, around lake, campground and day-use areas; not on swimming beach. Water available; pick up waste.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Reclaimed park with sandy swim beach, calm lake, excellent fishing, comfortable cabins, modern campsites, varied trails , popular, ideal family retreat.
Tips from Visitors
- The park's transformation from strip mine to beautiful lake is an inspiring environmental success story
- Swimming beach is popular with families - arrives early on summer weekends
- Lake is stocked with trout and has good bass and panfish populations
- Only electric motors and non-powered boats allowed on the lake
- Spirit of Tuscarora Trail offers the longest hike at 4.5 miles
- Cabins and campsites book up months ahead for summer - reserve early
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Tuscarora State Park:
- Yuengling BreweryAmerica's oldest brewery with tours and tastings in Pottsville8 miles away
- Pioneer Tunnel Coal MineHistoric coal mine tour and steam locomotive ride in Ashland10 miles away
- Hawk Mountain SanctuaryWorld-famous raptor migration viewing site on the Kittatinny Ridge18 miles away
Things to Do at Tuscarora State Park
Hiking Trails
Lake View Trail
EasyEasy loop trail encircling Tuscarora Lake with continuous water views. Gentle terrain suitable for all ages and abilities. Popular for dog walking.
Spirit of Tuscarora Trail
ModerateLonger woodland loop exploring the regenerated forest on former strip mine land. Moderate terrain with some hills showcasing the environmental restoration.
Ridge Trail
ModerateTrail climbing to ridge overlooking the lake. Moderate elevation gain rewards with views of the park and surrounding coal region.
Directions
From I-81, take Exit 131 for PA-901 East toward Minersville. Follow PA-901 East for about 6 miles. Turn left onto Tuscarora Park Road and follow signs to the park. From Pottsville, take PA-61 North to PA-901 West, then follow signs to the park.