Lackawanna State Park
A 1,445-acre park centered around a 198-acre lake, offering camping, hiking, boating, and stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Lackawanna State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1,445-acre park centered around a 198-acre lake, offering camping, hiking, boating, and stargazing.
"Wonderful park with many options from tent to full hookup, offering a great escape into nature."
Pack for all weather
Weather can change quickly; bring layers for hiking and water activities. :umbrella:
Book campsites in advance
Popular loops fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve early! :tent:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lackawanna Lake
Park-wide
A 198-acre lake perfect for paddleboarding, fishing, and boating adventures.
Extensive Trail Network
Various trailheads
Explore over 18 miles of well-marked trails, from easy lakeside strolls to moderate woodland hikes.
The Dam
Near Snowflake and Frost Hollow Trails
A scenic spot offering views of the lake and surrounding landscape, though litter can sometimes be an issue.
Star Party Events
Amphitheater and lakeside
Experience the park's dark skies with special events like stargazing parties, offering views of celestial wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Camping & Amenities Check
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather
Weather can change quickly; bring layers for hiking and water activities. :umbrella:
Book campsites in advance
Popular loops fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve early! :tent:
Check hunting advisories
Some trails allow hunting; be aware of seasons for safety. :hunting_horn:
Bring your own TP
Restrooms may not always be stocked, so carry your own supply. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather
Weather can change quickly; bring layers for hiking and water activities. :umbrella:
Book campsites in advance
Popular loops fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve early! :tent:
Check hunting advisories
Some trails allow hunting; be aware of seasons for safety. :hunting_horn:
Bring your own TP
Restrooms may not always be stocked, so carry your own supply. :toilet:
Explore by water
Rent paddleboards or kayaks to fully enjoy the 198-acre lake. :kayak:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lackawanna State Park is praised for its beautiful lake, extensive trail system, and dark skies ideal for stargazing. Campers appreciate the variety of sites and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note aging facilities and inconsistent restroom stocking. Potential drawbacks include limited shower access, uneven older campsites, and the need to be aware of hunting seasons on certain trails.
"Wonderful park. Many options from tent to full hookup. Most sites have only electric with potable water stations around. Most loops have a restroom in or nearby which are very clean. Park employees were in every day cleaning the space. I believe only two loops have showers, which could be challenging when park is full. The majority of sites are older & thus not very level & some have amenities (picnic tables fire pits on the opposite side of rig when backed in. We were in one of the loops that allows pets. Overall not bad, but when owners & hosts have dogs that bark continuously for over 45 minutes, something needs to be addressed. A nice walk to lake with pool(in season) boat rentals, bike rentals & firewood are more perks. A nice walk to the dam & many more trails which are all well marked."
Kaleb Michael Bakker
"The park itself is nice, but a bit run down. Some roads need work..
The campground is nice, but also a bit run down: Fox run is quiet and very dark and 63-65 are very secluded. But the bathroom is very dirty and didn’t have toilet paper. Whoever came to “clean” it Saturday literally ran a mop once along the floor in a straight line and left, did not refill the empty toilet paper roll or mop the dirt on the floor. The handicap toilet is very high, and the building smells like mold. I did hear very loud music and partying both nights well after midnight, I told a ranger but it was still not addressed.
The dam waterfall is very pretty but fenced in and lots of litter around it. the road to get there is not paved and very narrow. I tried to do the trail and there was a sign that said hunting is allowed, so I turned around, I didn’t want my dog or myself shot. I heard at least 5 shots, it was scary. Also, there’s zero birds on the water, not one duck or goose.
There’s a nice walking trail and the lake is nice ce for boating. The pool looked very crowded and there’s no swimming area in the lake. They sell firewood: $7 for 5 pieces of not quite weathered wood so there was lots of smoke and steam and not much fire.
The Star Party event was great, after a great presentation at the amphitheater, we walked down by the lake and saw Saturn and a few other exciting things in the telescopes."
Ania Banania
"Lots of wide open spaces for hiking, biking, swimming, boating, etc. Very quiet, well shaded camp sites. It's more rustic than some places, of course. Lots of nature. Small bath house (2 showers, 2 toilets, 3 sinks in Fox Chase loop, but never crowded)"
L Sneddon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lackawanna State Park is located in North Abington Township, PA, about 2.5 hours from New Jersey.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. If coming from Scranton, local bus routes might get you close, but a taxi or rideshare would likely be needed for the final leg.
The park has a network of well-marked trails for hiking and biking.
The closest major airport is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), which is a short drive from the park. From the airport, you would typically rent a car or take a taxi/rideshare to reach Lackawanna State Park.
Yes, Lackawanna State Park is open year-round. While some activities like swimming and paddleboarding are seasonal, winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling and enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access Lackawanna State Park for day use. However, fees apply for camping, boat rentals, and the swimming pool (when in season).
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk for day-use visitors. Campground hours and specific facility operating times may vary, so it's best to check the official park website or contact them directly for the most current information.
Campsites can be booked in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Reservations are usually made through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system online or by phone. Some sites offer full hookups, while others have electric and water.
Lackawanna State Park hosts various events throughout the year, including nature programs, educational talks, and popular Star Party events for stargazing. Check the park's schedule for upcoming activities.
Yes, pets are generally allowed in Lackawanna State Park and in designated pet-friendly camping loops. However, they must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended. Always clean up after your pet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, paddleboarding, camping, and picnicking. In season, there's also a swimming pool. Winter activities can include snowmobiling.
Yes, the Orchard Trail is a 2-mile easy out-and-back trail that borders the lake, making it ideal for beginners. The Snowflake and Frost Hollow Trails offer a 2.6-mile loop with dam views.
There is no designated swimming area in Lackawanna Lake itself. However, the park features a swimming pool that is open seasonally for visitors.
The campground offers over 95 sites with varying amenities, from tent sites to those with electric and water hookups. Some newer sites in the Ledge loop have full hookups. Restrooms are available, but shower facilities are limited to only a couple of loops.
While many trails are natural, some areas and facilities aim for accessibility. The park's terrain can be uneven in places. Specific accessible features should be confirmed with park management.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset.
There is a waterfall near the dam, but it can be fenced off and may have litter around it. The sound of water is a common feature along some of the trails.
While some reviewers noted a lack of birds on the water, the park's woodlands and lake areas are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park. It's essential to check the specific rules for Lackawanna State Park with the DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details on trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park also hosts Star Party events, which can be a magical experience for children curious about the night sky.When camping, opt for sites with nearby restrooms. Be aware that shower facilities are limited, so plan accordingly. If your family enjoys swimming, the park's seasonal swimming pool is a good alternative to the lake.
🏕️ Campers
Pet-friendly loops are available, but be mindful of noise from other campers' dogs.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to check for hunting seasons as some trails are in areas where hunting is permitted, which could impact your hike's safety and serenity.Nature lovers can enjoy the lake's ecosystem, though some visitors have noted a lack of waterfowl at times.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lackawanna Lake
Boating is also popular, though specific regulations regarding motor size and type should be checked with the park. Fishing is another key activity, with opportunities to catch various species. While there's no designated swimming area in the lake, the surrounding shores provide scenic spots for relaxation and enjoying the water views.For those looking to rent equipment, the park offers boat rentals and bike rentals, adding to the convenience for visitors. The lake is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset, offering photographers and nature lovers stunning vistas.
The presence of the dam also adds a unique point of interest to the lake's landscape.Remember that while the lake is a major draw, it's important to be aware of seasonal conditions and any specific park rules regarding water activities. Checking the park's official resources for the most up-to-date information on rentals and regulations is always a good practice.
Hiking and Trails for Every Level
For a leisurely stroll, the Orchard Trail is a 2-mile out-and-back path that meanders along the lake's edge, offering pleasant views without strenuous effort. If you're seeking a bit more challenge with rewarding scenery, the Snowflake and Frost Hollow Trails form a 2.6-mile loop that provides glimpses of the dam.More adventurous hikers can tackle the North Woods Trail, a 4.4-mile moderate out-and-back hike that delves deeper into the park's wooded areas. These trails are generally well-marked, making navigation straightforward for most visitors.
Important Note: Be aware that hunting is permitted in certain areas of the park during designated seasons.
Camping Experience and Facilities
While many sites provide electric and water hookups, only a few loops feature shower facilities, which can be a consideration during peak times.Reviewers mention that some older sites may not be very level, and amenities like picnic tables and fire pits might be positioned inconveniently for certain RV setups.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as popular sites fill up quickly.
The park also sells firewood, though some find it to be of lower quality and prone to excessive smoke.
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