
Prince Gallitzin State Park
A vast 1,635-acre lake and over 30 miles of trails offer boating, hiking, camping, and stunning overlooks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

Prince Gallitzin State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast 1,635-acre lake and over 30 miles of trails offer boating, hiking, camping, and stunning overlooks.
"Beautiful park that is perfectly maintained. Best camp store I have seen!"

Kayak & Paddleboard Fun
Rentals available for a perfect day on the lake! :kayak:
Hike with Kids
Easy trails with beaver dams & waterfowl keep kids entertained. :hiking_boot:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Raystown Lake
The park's centerpiece
A vast 1,635-acre lake perfect for boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking adventures.

Headache Hill Overlook
Highest point in the park
Climb the water tower-like fixture for breathtaking panoramic views of the park and surrounding landscape.

Extensive Trail Network
Throughout the park
Over 30 miles of trails cater to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, with options for all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Park's Expansive Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak & Paddleboard Fun
Rentals available for a perfect day on the lake! :kayak:
Hike with Kids
Easy trails with beaver dams & waterfowl keep kids entertained. :hiking_boot:
Panoramic Views
Climb the 'Headache Hill' structure for stunning park vistas. :camera:
Camping Comforts
Well-maintained campgrounds with cottages available. :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak & Paddleboard Fun
Rentals available for a perfect day on the lake! :kayak:
Hike with Kids
Easy trails with beaver dams & waterfowl keep kids entertained. :hiking_boot:
Panoramic Views
Climb the 'Headache Hill' structure for stunning park vistas. :camera:
Camping Comforts
Well-maintained campgrounds with cottages available. :tent:
Boater's Paradise
Multiple launches & marinas for all your boating needs. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Prince Gallitzin State Park for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds and the stunning Raystown Lake. The park's extensive recreational offerings, from boating and swimming to hiking and camping, are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some visitors note that the park can get quite busy, especially during peak times.
"The swimming are is very nice and there were lots of swimmers having a blast. Pretty big boats cruising around. Volleyball areas,pavilions,charging station for phones . Was pretty busy."
Patricia covert
"Beautiful park that is perfectly maintained. Best camp store I have seen! Hope to come back soon!."
Tammy McElroy
"Pretty park, loved the weeping willow trees.
Big water tower with a great view of the area up top! Very cold and windy day."
Belinda Siani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Prince Gallitzin State Park is accessible by car via various routes. The park has at least eight entrances, making it easy to find a point of access depending on your starting location. GPS coordinates can be helpful for navigating to specific areas within the park.
Public transportation options directly to Prince Gallitzin State Park are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle or rental car.
Given its size, a park map is highly recommended. You can often find these at entrance stations or download them online. The park is well-signed, but having a map helps in planning your route to different activity areas.
Yes, some areas within the park, particularly near the swimming areas and pavilions, offer charging stations for phones.
Prince Gallitzin State Park is conveniently located less than 30 minutes from Johnstown, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a short getaway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access Prince Gallitzin State Park. However, fees may apply for specific activities, camping, or pavilion rentals. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updated information on fees.
Prince Gallitzin State Park is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk for day-use activities. Camping facilities and specific amenities may have different operating hours.
Yes, advance booking for campsites and cottages is highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can usually book through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system.
Information on group rates or discounts for events is best obtained by contacting the park office directly. They can provide details on booking pavilions or organizing larger gatherings.
Pets are generally allowed in Prince Gallitzin State Park but must be kept on a leash. Specific restrictions may apply in certain areas like beaches or buildings. Always check park regulations for the most current pet policy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a wide range of activities including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, disc golfing, and camping. In winter, ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, and snowmobiling are popular.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas, such as Muskrat Beach in the day-use area and the beach at the campground. The swimming areas are usually well-maintained.
Absolutely! Prince Gallitzin State Park boasts many easy trails, some with features like beaver dams and bridges that captivate children. The park offers over 32 miles of hiking trails.
The park is a boater's paradise with nine boat launches, two marinas, and public mooring facilities. Boats up to 20 HP are allowed, and the marina offers services, rentals, and tours.
Yes, the water tower-like fixture at Headache Hill is open to the public and offers a unique overlook with fantastic views of the park. Be aware it can be windy and cold at the top.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no full-service restaurants within the park itself, there is a well-stocked camp store that offers snacks and essentials. You'll find more dining options in nearby towns like Patton or Johnstown.
Yes, Prince Gallitzin State Park has numerous picnic tables and pavilions available throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch.
The camp store is noted as one of the best, typically offering a good selection of groceries, snacks, drinks, and camping supplies.
During special events or festivals held at the park, food vendors may be present. It's best to check the park's event calendar for specific details.
Many picnic areas are equipped with grills, but it's advisable to confirm this when selecting your spot. Bringing your own portable grill might also be an option, provided you follow park guidelines for safe usage.
📸 📸 Photography
The Headache Hill overlook offers stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The lake itself provides beautiful reflections and opportunities for capturing water activities. Early morning walks in the woods also yield lovely light.
The weeping willow trees are noted for their beauty. The diverse hiking trails offer chances to photograph forest scenes, wildlife, and unique flora. The lake's shoreline and any visible wildlife, like waterfowl, are also great subjects.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow. Sunrise from Headache Hill or lakeside can be spectacular.
Yes, the park is home to various wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Binoculars can be helpful for observing and photographing wildlife from afar.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's crucial to check the official Prince Gallitzin State Park website or contact the park office for the most current drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the unique experience at Headache Hill, where kids can enjoy the novelty of climbing the structure for great views. The park also hosts environmental programs that can be educational and entertaining for younger visitors. With plenty of picnic areas and open spaces, it's easy to spend a full day enjoying the outdoors together.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
Boats up to 20 HP are permitted on the lake. The marina provides essential services, including repairs and rentals, and even offers boat tours for a different perspective of the expansive lake. Whether you're casting a line from the shore, a boat, or enjoying a leisurely cruise, the park's extensive water access ensures a fulfilling experience.
🏕️ Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond camping, the park's extensive trail system caters to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, with options for winter sports like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The park's commitment to maintaining its facilities and natural beauty ensures a high-quality experience for all who wish to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Raystown Lake
The lake is also a prime spot for fishing, with anglers often seeking bass, panfish, and other freshwater species. Swimming is a popular summer activity, with designated beaches providing safe and enjoyable access to the cool waters. Whether you're looking for an active day on the water or a peaceful spot to relax by the shore, Raystown Lake offers a diverse range of experiences for all visitors.
For those who prefer to admire the lake from a distance, numerous viewpoints and picnic areas offer stunning vistas. The marina not only provides services but also offers boat tours, giving visitors a different perspective of the lake's grandeur. The sheer size and accessibility of Raystown Lake make it a central attraction for anyone visiting Prince Gallitzin State Park.
Hiking and Trail Adventures
Popular hiking routes often lead to scenic overlooks, such as the one at Headache Hill, or meander through diverse woodland environments. Some trails are designed to be engaging for younger visitors, featuring points of interest like beaver dams and picturesque bridges, which can help keep children entertained and prevent complaints. The park's commitment to maintaining these trails ensures a pleasant experience for all outdoor enthusiasts.
When planning your hike, it's advisable to consult a park map to select a trail that matches your fitness level and interests. Whether you're seeking a short nature walk or a longer trek, Prince Gallitzin State Park's extensive trail system provides ample opportunity to explore its natural beauty on foot.
Year-Round Recreation and Camping
For overnight stays, the park offers a comprehensive camping experience. This includes a 398-site tent and trailer campground, as well as three rustic cottages and two modern cottages for those seeking more comfort. The campground itself features amenities like its own boat launch and swimming beach, enhancing the convenience for campers. The park also hosts annual events, such as the Tatar-Bashkir Family Camping Trip, highlighting its role as a community gathering space.
Beyond the organized activities, the park's well-maintained grounds and natural beauty make it a year-round destination for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. Whether you're pitching a tent in the summer or enjoying a brisk winter hike, Prince Gallitzin State Park provides a memorable experience in every season.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit