Nestled in the heart of scenic Carbon County, Beltzville State Park is one of NEPA’s best spots for water adventures and hiking. Located just five miles outside of Lehighton, the picturesque property spreads out over 3,000 acres into the southern foothills of the Pocono Mountains. It’s home to pristine lands, lush forests and breathtaking mountain views all surrounding the 949-acre Beltzville Lake.

Locals, adventurous families and out-of-towners visit the park year-round to soak up its seasonal beauty. Even migrating waterfowl find it difficult to pass up an annual stop.

Grab a park map and explore these highlights within the park.

Happy Trails

The park contains fifteen miles of marked trails. Enjoy wooded pathways, open meadows, lakeside trails and waterfalls. Trails vary in length and range from easy routes under one mile to more difficult paths up to four miles.

For the adventurous hiker, on the west end of the dam is the Saw Mill Trail. This historical hike winds past the remains of a gristmill, small ponds, a stream, and an abandoned 18th-century slate quarry. At just one mile in length, the Falls Trail is great for beginners, leading hikers to the Wild Creek Falls Bridge, through the forest, then upstream to the Wild Creek Falls.

A Day On The Lake

The 949-acre Beltzville Lake attracts swimmers, fishers, boaters and water-skiers thanks to its versatility. There’s nothing more refreshing in the summer than a dip in the lake nor a better place to cast a line.

The sandy beach along the shore is a favorite spot for families to swim, play in the sand, and sunbathe. The swimming beach is open during the summer months, Memorial Day to Labor Day, from 8 AM to sunset.

You can find some of the best fishing in the Poconos at Beltzville Lake, which is fed via the Pohopoco Creek. Fishing enthusiasts take advantage of the park’s trout-stocked waters during all seasons. Anglers also target the lake’s healthy populations of walleye, bass, muskellunge, perch and chain pickerel.

Boating is another great way to spend a day on the water. Most recreational boats are permitted with the maximum speed limit being 45 mph. You may bring your own boat onto the lake or take advantage of nearby boat rentals.

Boaters enter the lake either at the south shore’s two-lane launch ramp, or at the publicly accessible boat launch on the northern shore of the reservoir. Water-skiing is permitted in zoned ski areas on the south shore of the lake.

Winter Adventurers

When winter blankets the park in snow, Beltzville transforms into a winter wonderland. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing is accessible in the open, rolling fields throughout the park, as well as nine miles of hiking and biking trials. Ice fishing and iceboating is welcome on Beltzville Lake. Ice thickness is not monitored, so use caution and only fish in areas away from the dam, where the ice is more stable.

Plan a Trip

Pack a lunch and make a day of it. This peaceful park has wooded and open picnic areas in the Pine Run West Day Use Area. The picnic areas are equipped with modern restrooms, drinking water, parking and day use mooring for boats. There are also recreational playfields and an ADA-accessible playground.

Easily accessible off of I-476, Beltzville State Park is a short, scenic drive from everywhere in NEPA and located near Jim Thorpe, Weatherly and White Haven. And for more adventures, be sure to check out Weiser State Forest and Hickory Run State Park.

Visitor Information

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, with specific areas accessible during designated hours. For those planning to visit, here are a few tips to make the most of your trip:

• Parking: Ample parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak times, especially in the summer.
• Facilities: Restrooms, picnic pavilions, and a visitor center are available for public use.
• Safety: Always follow park guidelines and stay on designated trails to protect both yourself and the natural environment.