Whipple Dam State Park

Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, USA

Established 1928

256 acres

Whipple Dam State Park is a scenic 256-acre park nestled in the Rothrock State Forest of central Pennsylvania. The park is centered around the picturesque Whipple Lake, a 22-acre body of water ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. Surrounded by forested hills, the park offers a tranquil setting for picnicking, wildlife watching, and outdoor recreation. Its historic stone beach house, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, adds to the park's charm and heritage.

Visiting with Dogs

Dogs allowed at Whipple Dam Park on six-foot leashes; owners must clean up. No dogs in swim areas or buildings.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Whipple Dam’s scenic 22 acre lake, sandy beach for swimming, calm waters for paddling and fishing, picnics, trails.

Tips from Visitors

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking and a good spot by the lake.
Bring cash for boat rentals and concessions, as card payments may not always be accepted.
Pack insect repellent and sunscreen to stay comfortable while hiking or relaxing by the water.
Check the park’s website for swimming advisories or facility updates before your visit.
Leashed pets are welcome in most areas, but not on the sand beach.
Carry out all trash to help keep the park clean and beautiful.
Explore the trails around the lake for scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Amenities

Kids PlaygroundPicnic areasPicnic pavilionsRestroomsBoat launchBoat rentalsSwimming beachHistoric beach housePlaygroundParkingFishing pier

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Whipple Dam State Park:

Rothrock State Forest
A vast forest offering hiking, mountain biking, and hunting opportunities.
0.5 miles away
Shaver's Creek Environmental Center
A nature center with wildlife exhibits, trails, and educational programs.
6 miles away
Penn-Roosevelt State Park
A remote park known for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
10 miles away

Things to Do at Whipple Dam State Park

SwimmingBoating (non-motorized)FishingPicnickingWildlife watchingHikingKayakingCanoeingPhotographyCross-country skiing (winter)

Hiking Trails

Whipple Dam State Park offers a relaxing day hiking experience with well-maintained, easy-to-moderate trails winding through lush forests and around the scenic lake. Hikers frequently enjoy peaceful surroundings, abundant wildlife, and shaded paths, making it ideal for families and casual hikers. The trails are clearly marked, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to combine hiking with swimming or picnicking by the beach. Overall, it's a tranquil spot for a short, enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Whipple Lake Trail

Easy

A scenic loop trail that circles Whipple Lake, offering views of the water and opportunities for birdwatching.

2 mi

1 hour

100 ft gain

Easy difficulty

Bear Meadows Link Trail

Moderate

A wooded trail connecting Whipple Dam State Park to the Bear Meadows Natural Area, featuring diverse flora and gentle climbs.

3.5 mi

2 hours

350 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Greenwood Spur Trail

Easy

A short connector trail through hardwood forests, ideal for families and beginner hikers.

1.5 mi

45 minutes

80 ft gain

Easy difficulty

Mid State Trail Segment

Moderate

A section of the long-distance Mid State Trail passing through the park, with rolling hills and forested scenery.

5 mi

2.5 hours

600 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Directions

From State College, take PA-26 south for approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto Charter Oak Road, then right onto Laurel Run Road. Follow signs to the park entrance.