Beltzville Lake was constructed in 1971 along Pohopoco Creek in Pennsylvania. The lake and dam were constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers primarily for flood control, water storage, and recreation. The lake is 949-acres and is bordered by Beltzville State Park. The state park was completed in 1972 as part of the Beltzville Lake project.
There is something for everyone at Beltzville Lake. Fifteen miles of hiking trails provide visitors with scenic views, historical sites, and the opportunity to view wildlife. On the water, boating and fishing are pastimes enjoyed by many. There are multiple boat ramps providing lake access. The activities don’t stop during the winter. For those willing to brave the cold, bring along your cross-country skis, snowshoes, and ice fishing gear.
Camping isn’t permitted at Beltzville State Park, but there are other camping options close by. Hickory Run State Park is about 16 miles away and has over 392 campsites, including some with full hookups. The Allentown Journey KOA is another campground option and is about 25 miles away in New Tripoli, PA. Both campgrounds and Beltzville Lake are pet-friendly.
Beltzville Lake is located in Pennsylvania just seven miles from the community of Lehighton. The lake and dam are along Pohopoco Creek at the Lehigh River Basin. Visitors to the lake and state park can get gas and access other services in Lehighton as well as other nearby cities and towns.
The road leading to the park can be accessed from I-476. Since the main roads can be traveled to the park, visitors shouldn’t encounter any hazardous spots. It is always advisable to check road and weather conditions before any trip. Those visiting during the winter should come prepared for snow and ice.
There is no camping at Beltzville State Park. Plenty of parking can be found in the day-use areas. Visitors with travel trailers or an RV should be able to park but may find it easiest to leave their rig at a nearby state park or campground.
Hickory Run State Park is about 16 miles from Beltzville Lake in the Pocono Mountains foothills. This nearly 16,000-acre state park has many camping options. With 392 campsites, overnight guests can choose from a variety of options, from primitive campsites to cottages.
Many campsites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet long. Only 15 campsites have full hookups, though over 100 more have electric hookups. There are many non-electric campsites, as well. The parking pads at the campsites are gravel, and some leveling may be necessary. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring to relax around in the mornings, evenings, or between activities. A dump station and both flush and vault toilets are near the campground.
There are many activities and amenities for campers to enjoy during their stay. Disc golf, trout streams, 40 miles of hiking trails, and the small Sand Spring Lake are a few activities. There are many different types of wildlife living in the park and surrounding area. While great for viewing, ensure you secure any food and trash to avoid attracting bears and other animals.
The Allentown KOA Journey is about 25 miles away in New Tripoli. Guests can expect the KOA to be a peaceful campground in a remote area. A stream flows the length of the campground. The KOA is open from April to November and accepts reservations. There are several campsite options, ranging from tent sites to cabins. There are several RV campsites with full hookups as well as some with water and electric only. Both pull-through and back-in sites are available to reserve. The campsites are well-shaded from the many tall trees surrounding the campground. The Allentown KOA Journey has many amenities to make guests comfortable. The campground is pet-friendly and has a dog park where your dog can run and play. For kids, a playground and a pool are open seasonally. Restrooms, laundry facilities, WiFi, and cable are additional amenities.
Beltzville Lake makes for a scenic picnic spot to enjoy with family, friends, and even large groups. There are both wooded and open picnic areas at the Pine Run West Day Use Area, allowing picnickers to choose the best picnic spot for their group gathering. Additionally, there are four reservable picnic pavilions for large groups. Drinking water, restrooms, and plenty of parking are located near the picnic areas.
From May to September, the sandy beach is open to both swimmers and sunbathers. The refreshing, clear water feels great on a warm afternoon. The designated swimming area is bordered with buoys to keep passing boats separate from those splashing around in the water. There is no lifeguard on duty at Beltzville Lake. Restrooms and showers are near the swimming beach.
Many come to Beltzville lake for boating and other water activities such as water skiing or jet skiing. For those who may want to paddle, kayaks and paddleboats can be rented during the summer season. There are two and three-lane boat ramps located around the lake, making it a short wait to access the water with your boat. Beltzville Lake has a maximum speed of 45 mph on the water.
There are 15 miles of trails to be enjoyed by visitors to Beltzville State Park. Those planning to explore the trails can pick up a trail guide at the park office. Hikers can expect scenic hikes with forests, creeks, lake views, and even historical sites.
One popular hike is the Saw Mill Trail. The trail takes visitors past a slate quarry dating back to the 1700s as well as a gristmill raceway. A wetland and several ponds are also located along the path, providing an opportunity for wildlife viewing.
There are opportunities to fish at Beltzville Lake year-round. Trout, various types of bass, walleye, and perch are common catches. Pohopoco Creek, below the dam, makes for an excellent trout fishing spot.
During the winter, once the lake is iced over, visitors come to the park for ice fishing. State fishing licenses are mandatory to fish on the lake, no matter the season.
Beltzville Lake and the state park don’t disappoint during the wintertime. The lake is an excellent destination for both ice fishing and iceboating. Before heading out on the ice, check conditions. The ice should be at least six inches thick to ensure it is safe.
On the land, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. There are about nine miles of trails that make excellent routes.
