Places to Swim in NEPA: Lakes, Beaches, Pools & Splash Pads

Jermyn, PA

The four-acre Aylesworth Creek Lake anchors Aylesworth Park in Jermyn with a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing. Free entry makes it easy to enjoy a relaxing summer day by the water. Families can picnic at nearby tables, grill lunch, or play at the Boundless Playground between swims. With trails, sports courts, and scenic lake views, Aylesworth Park is a go-to spot for warm-weather fun and family recreation.

Admission: Free

Lehighton, PA

The 949-acre Beltzville Lake at Beltzville State Park in Lehighton offers a wide sand beach and calm, clear water perfect for swimming. The beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and admission is free. Restrooms, changing areas, and a snack stand are conveniently located nearby. With boating, fishing, and hiking trails close at hand, Beltzville State Park delivers a full summer day of outdoor recreation in the Poconos.

Admission: Free

Admission: Free

Covington Twp., PA

DeSandis Pond, a nine-acre lake at Covington Park in Covington Township, features a guarded sandy beach and peaceful swimming area surrounded by trees. The park is free and open to the public all summer long. Visitors can relax under the pavilion, grill lunch, or take a stroll along the lake trail. With a playground, ballfields, and picnic areas nearby, Covington Park offers a balanced mix of recreation and relaxation.

Admission: Free

Gouldsboro, PA

The 250-acre Gouldsboro Lake at Gouldsboro State Park in Gouldsboro includes a sand beach and designated swimming area open from Memorial Day through mid-September. Admission is free, and restrooms and shaded picnic areas add comfort for swimmers. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboats, and anglers can fish from the accessible pier. With its quiet forest setting and mountain views, Gouldsboro offers a peaceful escape for swimmers and families alike.

Admission: Free

White Haven, PA

Sand Spring Lake, a 25-acre swimming spot at Hickory Run State Park in White Haven, features a sandy beach and clear mountain water for cooling off. Lifeguards are on duty from late May through mid-September, and admission is free. The nearby day-use area includes picnic tables, restrooms, and a snack stand. Surrounded by scenic trails and forested views, Hickory Run is a summer favorite for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Admission: Free

Forest City, PA

The small pond at Kennedy Park in Forest City offers a sand beach and calm swimming area that’s perfect for families. Free entry and the park’s close proximity to playgrounds and sports courts make it a convenient summer spot. Visitors can spread out on the sand or enjoy a picnic under the trees. Kennedy Park provides a relaxed, community-centered place to swim, play, and unwind.

Admission: Free

Barnesville, PA

The 52-acre Locust Lake at Locust Lake State Park in Barnesville offers a sandy beach and gentle swimming area surrounded by forested hillsides. The beach is open from late May through mid-September and admission is free. Visitors can rent boats, picnic along the shore, or explore nearby trails. With peaceful scenery and calm waters, Locust Lake is a favorite for laid-back summer swimming and boating.

Admission: Free
*Currently closed 

Jim Thorpe, PA

The 345-acre Mauch Chunk Lake in Jim Thorpe offers a wide sand beach and buoyed swimming area with stunning Pocono views. Passes are required, and the beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards or enjoy a snack from the seasonal stand. With shaded picnic areas and lakeside camping, Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides a full day of summer recreation in Carbon County.

Admission: Passes required

Fell Twp, PA

The 35-acre Merli-Sarnoski Park Lake in Fell Township includes a sandy beach and bath houses that make it an ideal family swimming destination. Admission is free, and picnic tables, playgrounds, and trails are located close by. Visitors can also fish or paddle in the calm lake waters. With mountain biking trails and scenic woodland surroundings, Merli-Sarnoski Park is perfect for active days or quiet lakeside afternoons.

Admission: Free

Milford, PA

Located within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area just south of Milford, Milford Beach offers riverside swimming along the Delaware River. Parking and amenity fees apply, and the beach includes grassy and sandy areas for relaxing. Restrooms, picnic tables, and river access for paddlers are available nearby. With stunning views and gentle water, Milford Beach provides a peaceful summer retreat in the Pocono Mountains.

Admission: Free

Hawley, PA

Palmyra Township Public Beach in Hawley sits on 5,700-acre Lake Wallenpaupack, the only public swimming beach on the lake. Passes are required, and the beach is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Guests can enjoy picnic tables, charcoal grills, a snack stand, and volleyball courts for a full day of summer fun. With calm water and swim lessons available, this spot delivers family-friendly lakeside recreation in the Pocono Lake Region.

Admission: Passes required

Greentown, PA

Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake, spanning nearly 800 acres combined, offer two sandy beaches at Promised Land State Park in Greentown. Admission is free, and both beaches are open from Memorial Day through mid-September. Visitors can swim, rent boats, or enjoy a lakeside picnic surrounded by pine forests. Promised Land captures the classic Pocono summer experience with its scenic lakes and peaceful shorelines.

Admission: Free

Benton, PA

The 245-acre Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton features a 600-foot sand beach and marked swimming area open from late May to mid-September. Admission is free, and the beach includes picnic tables, restrooms, and a concession stand. Boat rentals are also available for those who want to explore the lake. With clear mountain water and a forest backdrop, Lake Jean is a refreshing end to a day of hiking or waterfall viewing.

Admission: Free

East Stroudsburg, PA

Smithfield Beach in East Stroudsburg sits along the Delaware River within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Visitors can swim, paddle, or picnic along the sandy shoreline while taking in mountain and river views. Parking and amenity fees apply, and restrooms and shaded picnic areas are available. Smithfield Beach is a favorite spot for easy, scenic recreation near the river.

Admission: Free

Tobyhanna, PA

The 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake at Tobyhanna State Park in Tobyhanna offers a sandy beach and roped swimming area open from Memorial Day through mid-September. Admission is free, and the nearby restrooms, showers, and picnic tables make it ideal for families. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboats and enjoy a quiet swim surrounded by forested hills. Tobyhanna State Park provides a peaceful summer escape in the Pocono Mountains.

Admission: Free

Barnesville, PA

The 96-acre Tuscarora Lake at Tuscarora State Park in Barnesville includes a sandy beach and designated swimming area open from late May through mid-September. Admission is free, and a concession stand and picnic areas sit just steps from the water. With calm water and shaded trails nearby, Tuscarora is a relaxing and scenic destination for summer swimming.

Admission: Free
*Currently closed

Lehighton, PA

Baer Memorial Pool in Lehighton serves Carbon County residents with a large outdoor pool featuring three waterslides and zero-entry access. A children’s splash area includes mini slides and fountains, making it a favorite for young families. Swim lessons and aquatic fitness classes like water aerobics are offered throughout the summer. Carbon County residents can enjoy daily admission or discounted season memberships, with lifeguards on duty for safety.

Admission: Open to Carbon County residents only, passes required

Berwick, PA

Ber-Vaughn Park and Pool in Berwick features one of Pennsylvania’s largest community swimming facilities. The renovated main pool provides ample space for lap swimming and family recreation, while the surrounding park offers fields, playgrounds, and shaded areas. Both residents and non-residents are welcome, with day passes and seasonal memberships available. Lifeguards are present during operating hours to ensure a safe swim for all ages.

Admission: Passes required

Scranton, PA

Connell Park Pool in Scranton is a welcoming public swimming spot that offers free admission all summer long. The family-friendly layout makes it easy for kids to splash, swim, and cool off, while parents relax on the pool deck or in nearby shaded areas. Located within one of Scranton’s most popular community parks, it’s a go-to place for an afternoon swim or casual recreation.

Admission: Free

East Stroudsburg, PA

Dansbury Park Pool in East Stroudsburg offers heated water, waterslides, lap lanes, a splash pad, and zero-depth entry for accessible fun. The pool complex is family-friendly and open to residents and non-residents with daily passes or memberships. Surrounded by sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds, this pool serves as the heart of summer recreation in East Stroudsburg.

Admission: Passes required

Wyoming, PA

Frances Slocum State Park Pool in Wyoming provides a spacious swimming area with shallow entry and two twisting slides. Families can also enjoy the adjacent wading pool, bathhouse, and seasonal snack bar. The pool is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering a safe, lifeguard-supervised space to swim and relax. A use fee is required for all visitors.

Admission: Admission fee required to use the pool.

Hegins, PA

Tri-Valley Community Pool in Hegins is a laid-back community pool where families can cool off, relax, and take part in seasonal activities. The pool offers swim lessons for beginners, while summer pool parties and community events keep things lively. Visitors can enjoy the nearby park’s fields and pavilions for picnics after a swim.

Admission: Passes required

Honesdale, PA

The Honesdale Area Pool in Honesdale is an Olympic-size swimming facility featuring a diving board and waterslide for endless summer fun. Families can spread out on the grassy lawn, and children can take swim lessons to build confidence in the water. The pool operates from early June through mid-August, offering both daily admission and season memberships.

Admission: Passes required

Pottsville, PA

John F. Kennedy Memorial Recreation Complex Pool in Pottsville is one of NEPA’s largest, holding 600,000 gallons of water. It features a 40-foot waterslide, multiple diving boards, and a children’s play area. The pool also offers swim lessons and Junior Lifeguard Camp throughout the summer. Families can attend evening events, family nights, or private pool rentals for celebrations.

Admission: Passes required

Kingston, PA

The Kingston Community Pool in Kingston provides a fun summer retreat with diving boards, slides, and a splash pad for younger swimmers. Swim lessons and family events make it a popular gathering spot. The pool operates from early June through mid-August, with daily passes and seasonal memberships available to both residents and non-residents.

Admission: Passes or membership required

Elysburg, PA

The Crystal Pool at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg holds nearly 900,000 gallons of fresh mountain stream water. It includes diving boards, slides, and a separate kiddie splash area surrounded by rides and picnic pavilions. Open from late May through early September, this pool captures the park’s nostalgic charm. Day and season passes are available, and all guests entering the pool area must purchase admission.

Admission: Tickets required

North Abington Township, PA

Lackawanna State Park Pool in North Abington Township offers zero-entry access, a splash pad, and ADA-compliant design. Families can cool off and play while enjoying picnic areas and shaded seating nearby. The pool is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with weekend and weekday schedules that vary seasonally. A small admission fee applies.

Admission: Admission fee required to use the pool and splash pad.

Scranton, PA

McDade Park Pool in Scranton is an Olympic-size outdoor pool with a splash pad and modern bathhouse. Families can enjoy a free day of swimming and sun at this fully accessible community facility. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours, and the park offers ample space for picnicking and recreation nearby.

Admission: Free
*Currently closed 

Minersville, PA

The Minersville Community Pool in Minersville, located at the 4th Street Recreation Complex, includes slides, a kiddie area, and a concession stand for convenient summer fun. Swim lessons and seasonal events add to the family atmosphere. The pool welcomes both residents and non-residents with daily or seasonal passes available.

Admission: Passes required

New Milford, PA

The New Milford Borough Pool in New Milford provides a clean, family-friendly space for swimming and relaxation. With ample deck space and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s ideal for laps, lounging, or playtime. The pool is open seasonally with daily admission fees, offering a classic small-town summer swim experience.

Admission: Daily fee required

Bloomsburg, PA

Norris E. Rock Memorial Pool in Bloomsburg features water sprayers, a tube slide, diving board, and in-water lounge chairs. Kids love the floating lily pad elements and basketball hoop, while adults can enjoy swim lessons and water aerobics. The pool hosts a summer swim camp and private party rentals. Day passes and memberships are available.

Admission: Passes required

Palmerton, PA

The Palmerton Memorial Park Pool in Palmerton features lap lanes, a twisting slide, and a fenced splash pad for younger children. Swim lessons and water exercise classes are offered throughout the season. Open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, this pool is a popular gathering spot for family recreation.

Admission: Passes required

Stroudsburg, PA

The Stroudsburg Borough Pool in Stroudsburg offers heated water, slides, and a toddler play area in a fully ADA-accessible facility. Both residents and non-residents can visit with daily passes or memberships. The pool serves as the centerpiece of summer fun at Stroudsburg Borough Park, surrounded by picnic spaces and playgrounds.

Admission: Passes required

Scranton, PA

The Weston Field Outdoor Pool in Scranton features a brand-new zero-entry design, shaded seating, and family-friendly water play features. Lifeguards are on duty daily, and free admission makes it easy for residents to enjoy all summer long. The pool is open from mid-June through Labor Day and designed to accommodate swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Admission: Free

Scranton, PA

Weston Park Pool in Scranton offers a relaxed neighborhood swimming area perfect for laps, splashing, or lounging outdoors. Managed by the City of Scranton, the pool is free and open during the summer season. It’s a simple, community-driven spot for cooling off close to home.

Admission: Free

Conyngham, PA

George C. Ernst Memorial Pool at Whispering Willows Park in Conyngham includes lap lanes, a diving board, and a clean, family-friendly layout. Residential memberships or daily passes are required for entry. The pool offers a classic small-town swim experience, complete with shaded seating and a friendly local atmosphere.

Admission: Residential memberships or day passes required

Berwick, PA

The Berwick YMCA in Berwick offers a heated indoor pool designed for both fitness and recreation. Swimmers can participate in lap swimming, water aerobics, or water Zumba, and certified instructors lead swim lessons for all ages. The facility provides a welcoming, community-oriented environment year-round. Membership or day passes are required for entry.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Bloomsburg, PA

The Bloomsburg Area YMCA in Bloomsburg focuses on youth development, health, and wellness through its aquatic programs. Children can gain confidence in the water through progressive swim lessons, while adults enjoy lap swimming and water fitness classes. The heated indoor pool is open year-round and offers accessible swim times for all skill levels.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Carbondale, PA

Greater Carbondale YMCA in Carbondale features a heated, fully accessible indoor pool ideal for year-round swimming. Visitors can take part in open swim sessions, water fitness programs, and group or private lessons. The pool’s inclusive design ensures access for swimmers of all abilities, creating a safe and supportive community environment.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Dunmore, PA

Greater Scranton YMCA in Dunmore includes two Olympic-size indoor pools for recreation, training, and competition. Programs range from beginner swim lessons to advanced swim teams and lifeguard certification courses. The facility is open year-round, with professional staff ensuring safety and accessibility for all swimmers.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Pittston, PA

Greater Pittston YMCA in Pittston provides a variety of aquatic programs for all ages and abilities. Certified instructors lead swim lessons and water fitness classes that help build strength and confidence in the water. The heated indoor pool offers open swim hours, classes, and recreational opportunities throughout the year.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Scranton, PA

Jewish Community Center of Scranton features a heated indoor pool open to members of all backgrounds and faiths. Swimmers can enjoy lap sessions, lessons, or open swim, while kids participate in instructional programs and pool parties. The facility promotes fitness, skill building, and social connection through its aquatics program.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Stroudsburg, PA

Pocono Family YMCA in Stroudsburg supports wellness and recreation through year-round aquatic programs. The indoor pool hosts youth and adult swim lessons, lifeguard training, and adaptive swim programs for individuals with special needs. Recreational swim times and fitness classes make it a community favorite.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Wilkes-Barre, PA

The Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA in Wilkes-Barre offers a wide range of aquatic activities in its heated indoor pool. Members can swim laps, take lessons, join water fitness sessions, or participate in the competitive swim team. Open swim sessions and birthday party rentals make it a hub for families.

Admission: Membership or day passes required

Scranton, Pa

Weston Field in Scranton offers year-round swimming within the city’s full-service recreation complex. Visitors can swim laps, take fitness classes, or enjoy family swim hours in a clean, modern facility. The indoor pool is free and open to the public, providing accessible recreation for all ages.

Admission: Free

Wilkes-Barre, PA

Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center (CYC) in Wilkes-Barre offers a family-friendly indoor pool that hosts swim lessons, lap swimming, and special events. Programs emphasize water safety, confidence-building, and fun for children and families. The pool is open year-round with memberships or day passes available.

Admission: Membership or day passes

Matamoras, PA

The Airport Park Splash Pad in Matamoras is a family favorite for summer fun, featuring fountains, sprinklers, and interactive jets across a smooth, level surface. The layout is accessible to children of all ages and abilities, with plenty of nearby seating for parents. Free admission and open seasonal hours make it a perfect quick stop for outdoor play.

Admission: Free

Lehighton, PA

The Baer Memorial Pool Splash Pad in Lehighton sits beside the pool’s zero-entry section, featuring mini slides, spray jets, and bubbling fountains for kids. Lifeguards supervise the play area, ensuring safety and fun for everyone. Carbon County residents can access the splash pad with a daily pass or membership during the pool’s summer season.

Admission: Free for Carbon County residents only

East Stroudsburg, PA

The Dansbury Park Splash Pad in East Stroudsburg is located next to the pool complex and includes large fountains, playful spray features, and shallow water zones. Its open layout and shaded seating make it ideal for families with young children. A pool pass is required to access the splash area, and lifeguards are on site during operating hours.

Admission: Passes required

Kingston, PA

The Kingston Community Pool Splash Pad in Kingston offers interactive sprays, gentle water jets, and colorful features that keep kids cool on hot days. The area is easy to supervise and family-friendly, with ample seating nearby. Daily passes or memberships are required for access to the pool and splash pad.

Admission: Passes or membership required

North Abington Township, PA

The Lackawanna State Park Splash Pad in North Abington Township is located within the main pool complex and features multiple spray zones and fountain features. Its zero-entry, ADA-accessible design allows children of all ages to enjoy safe, easy play. The splash pad operates seasonally alongside the pool, and a small daily fee applies for access.

Admission: Daily fee required
*Currently closed

Scranton, PA

The McDade Park Splash Pad in Scranton pairs with the park’s large outdoor pool to create a full day of water fun. Kids love the sprays, jets, and shaded rest areas, while families enjoy free access throughout the summer. The facility is fully accessible, ensuring safe, inclusive play for all visitors.

Admission: Free

Scranton, PA

The Novembrino Splash Pad in West Scranton provides a bright, colorful play space with fountains and sprinklers that run throughout the summer. Shaded picnic areas and a covered pavilion make it comfortable for families to stay and play. The splash pad is free and open to the public daily during warm-weather months.

Admission: Free

Palmerton, PA

The Palmerton Memorial Park Splash Pad in Palmerton sits within the pool complex, safely fenced off for younger children. Brightly colored spray features and bubbling fountains keep little ones entertained, while parents relax nearby. Pool passes or memberships are required for entry to both the pool and splash area.

Admission: Passes required

Dunmore, PA

The Splash & Play Zone at Sherwood Park in Dunmore features in-ground fountains, bubblers, and misting jets for endless water play. The entire area is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring fun for all ages. With free admission and plenty of open space, it’s a top local spot to cool off on warm days.

Admission: Free

South Abington Twp., PA

The South Abington Recreation Park Splash Pad in South Abington Township invites families to enjoy playful water fountains, nearby playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas. Surprise spray jets keep kids laughing and moving all afternoon. The splash pad is free and open to the public all summer long.

Admission: Free

Mountain Top, PA

The Wright Township Recreation Park Splash Pad in Mountain Top features colorful spray elements and a shallow play area designed for younger children. Benches surround the pad, giving parents a clear view and comfortable seating. This family-friendly community space is free to use during the summer season.

Admission: Free
* Currently closed