We are fortunate to have many magnificent sources of water in the Grand Canyon region of Pennsylvania. Sportsmen and anglers have undoubtedly discovered the region’s creeks and rivers, but lest we miss one of The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon areas’ greatest gifts, let’s investigate the local lakes.
PA Grand Canyon Lakes
Hamilton Lake
Located close to Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, Hamilton Lake has a surface area of 42 acres. The dam was built in 1967, and since 1970, it has been a part of the Catchable Trout Program run by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commissions.
Largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, sunfish, chain pickerel, channel catfish, bullheads, and a few species of stocked trout are also available to anglers. Many trophy-sized trout are stocked into Hamilton Lake both before the season begins and during it.
Just outside of Wellsboro lies a little lake that is ideal for fishing from the shore, a canoe, or a small electric boat. It is one of the few local lakes to receive a lake trout stocking, and it also features a variety of other fish species, including crappies, sunny’s, bullhead, and bass. At the dock area, you’ll find a small parking lot, a picnic table, and a bathroom that’s suitable for those with special needs.
Hills Creek Lake
Hills Creek State Park is a 407-acre wildlife haven in picturesque Tioga County. The lake attracts osprey, loon, and ducks since it is home to many kinds of warm-water fish. This location is perfect. Enjoy your Pennsylvania Grand Canyon family getaway with us and visit this lake for swimming, and picnicking.
The tiny but significant Hills Creek Lake is a crucial element of Hills Creek State Park. The park features a children’s playground and a beech, as well as a concession stand and boat rentals. You can fish from a canoe/kayak or a small electric propelled boat, or you can cast a line from the shore. Restrooms, some of them rudimentary, are available for those who choose to camp or picnic.
Hammond Lake
A 680-acre lake in a park that spans 3,73 acres.
Water and electricity are available, as well as modern restrooms, a playground, and a dump station. There is a boat ramp and overnight dockage at the campground. There are no restrictions on boat length or horsepower on the lake, but some places are designated as Slow-No Wake. The park also has a swimming beach, a sand volleyball court, a playground, boat launches, a field sports area, a camp store, trails for hunting, display gardens, an archery trail, scenic overlooks, and picnic facilities, such as grills and picnic shelters.
One of the largest artificial lakes in the Grand Canyon region, it was created as part of the Tioga Hammond Dam project and is great for water sports like power boating, jet skiing, and water skiing. All sorts of bass can be caught here, including walleye, catfish, largemouth, smallmouth, and hybrids. It’s a huge park with plenty of amenities like a fish cleaning station, recreational areas, hiking paths, and boat launches.
Cowanesque Lake
Park size of 2,734 acres; lake size of 1,084 acres. There are 86 sites suitable for families and 16 sites tucked away among the trees. Recreational lake under federal ownership that is perfect for camping, boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, picnicking, and even hunting.
An assortment of amenities including a swimming beach, playgrounds, a clean and updated bathhouse, a camp store, a boat ramp, and mooring spots are available. Even though there are no restrictions on boat length or horsepower on the lake, some locations have been designated as Slow-No Wake zones. There is also a playground, boat ramps, and a picnic area with barbecue grills and covered pavilions for eating.
Beechwood Lake
This 67-acre lake in Tioga County is a popular destination for anglers and water sports enthusiasts. The most common types of panfish are yellow perch, black crappies, and blue gills. Check out the chain pickerel, stocked trout, and walleye fishing for some excellent catches. Fishable in the early season thanks to early trout stocking. To fish legally in the United States, everyone over the age of 16 needs a fishing license. Also included is a synopsis of various state-issued fishing laws. Shallow-draft, lightweight fishing boats, canoes, and inflatables are the primary vessels available for recreational boating. Only motors with electronic controls are allowed. The entrance and parking lot are always available. Motorized boats with internal combustion engines are not allowed to be operated. All boats, even those without motors, that use state-owned facilities or public access must be registered and have a valid launch permission. Please follow all directions and warnings.
Visit PA Grand Canyon Lakes
Pine Creek Gorge, often known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, is almost 45 miles long and nearly 1500 feet deep. Many natural marvels, like as steep canyon walls and waterfalls, are formed by the PA Grand Canyon’s ever-changing terrain.
The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon begins in the Tioga State Forest, not far from Wellsboro, to the south of Ansonia. Pine Creek Rail Trail, a former railroad route that runs down the canyon’s Pine Creek Gorge, is a major draw for visitors.
The Pine Creek Rail Trail was named one of USA Today’s top 10 bicycle tours in the world. This trail has a mild incline, making it suitable for casual riders and simple bicycle equipment. Of course, it’s also a great place to go running or hiking.
Best Accommodations in Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon
When it comes to planning your getaway, it can add an extra layer of relaxation to feel as though you can really “unplug” from the bustle of everyday life and slow down for a few days in one of Slate and Starlight’s quaint and cozy cabins. We guarantee our rooms are well-sanitized, accommodating, and comfortable for every type of adventurer—and we’ll even offer you bike or kayak rentals if availability remains.
Ready to start your PA Grand Canyon area adventure? Book today with Slate and Starlight Retreats!