Pennsylvania’s diverse landscape is dotted with serene lakes and charming towns that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreation, and small-town hospitality. Here are ten of the loveliest lakeside towns in the Keystone State, each offering its own unique lakeside charm.
1. Erie (Lake Erie)
Erie sits on the shores of Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, and is renowned for its sandy beaches, vibrant waterfront, and the sprawling Presque Isle State Park. The city combines urban amenities with lakeside relaxation, offering waterfront dining, museums, and endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Erie’s blend of city life and lakeside leisure makes it a top destination for both residents and vacationers.
2. Hawley (Lake Wallenpaupack)
Nestled along the banks of Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley exudes small-town charm with its antique shops, cozy eateries, and boutique accommodations. The 5,700-acre lake is a hub for boating, fishing, and water sports, while the surrounding forests and rolling hills provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.
3. Conneaut Lake (Conneaut Lake)
Home to Pennsylvania’s largest natural lake, the town of Conneaut Lake is a classic summer retreat. The area is known for its nostalgic amusement park, lakeside cottages, and vibrant community events. Water sports, fishing, and lakeside picnics are staples here, making it a beloved getaway for generations.
4. Canadohta Lake (Canadohta Lake)
This tranquil lakeside community is famed for its clear, spring-fed waters and tree-lined shores. Canadohta Lake is a haven for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful relaxation. The town’s friendly atmosphere and local events foster a tight-knit community, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.
5. Bernville (Blue Marsh Lake)
Located at the north end of Blue Marsh Lake, Bernville boasts a peaceful, rural setting with easy access to a 1,150-acre lake surrounded by trails and recreation areas. The lake is popular for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the town itself offers quaint shops and a welcoming community vibe.
6. Portersville (Lake Arthur)
Serving as the gateway to Moraine State Park, Portersville is a quiet town near the 3,225-acre Lake Arthur. The park’s extensive shoreline and trails attract boaters, hikers, and nature lovers year-round. Portersville’s rural charm and proximity to outdoor adventure make it a serene lakeside retreat.
7. The Hideout (Lake Ariel)
The Hideout is a private, gated community centered around Lake Ariel, offering residents exclusive access to boating, fishing, and swimming. With amenities like golf courses, tennis courts, and even a ski slope, The Hideout provides a resort-like atmosphere in the heart of the Poconos.
8. Downingtown (Marsh Creek Lake)
Downingtown is a historic town near Marsh Creek Lake, a 535-acre reservoir surrounded by the rolling hills of Chester County. The area is perfect for sailing, fishing, and birdwatching, with Marsh Creek State Park offering hiking and picnicking opportunities. Downingtown itself blends history with modern comforts.
9. Linesville (Pymatuning Reservoir)
Linesville sits beside the vast Pymatuning Reservoir, one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes. The area is celebrated for its excellent fishing, especially for walleye and bass, and its quirky “ducks walk on fish” spillway. The town’s quiet streets and friendly locals make it an inviting lakeside escape.
10. Lake Harmony (Lake Harmony)
Tucked in the Pocono Mountains, Lake Harmony is a small community known for its recreational lake, water sports, and proximity to ski resorts. The town offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities for kayaking, water skiing, and hiking, as well as cozy lakeside accommodations.
Whether you’re drawn to bustling lake cities or peaceful rural retreats, Pennsylvania’s lakeside towns offer a diverse array of experiences—each with its own unique blend of natural beauty, recreation, and community spirit. From the shores of Lake Erie to the tranquil waters of Canadohta Lake, these towns are perfect for a weekend getaway or a lifetime by the water.
Sources:
- https://www.redfin.com/blog/lakes-in-pennsylvania-to-live-on/
- https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/195
- https://lloydscottagespa.com/canadohta-lake-history/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conneaut_Lake
- https://poconogo.com/stay/the-hideout/
