Allegheny National Forest Beach, specifically Kinzua Beach, offers a picturesque and serene setting for visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and amenities. Located within the Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania, this beach provides a perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful and natural getaway.
Operational Hours and Fees
- Operational Hours: Kinzua Beach is open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to make the most of their time at this scenic location.
- Fees: There is no fee for visiting the Allegheny National Forest Beach, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Recreational Activities
Kinzua Beach offers a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy:
- Swimming: The beach provides a designated swimming area with a concrete bottom, allowing for a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. However, it’s important to note that there is no lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at your own risk.
- Ice Fishing: During the winter months, the Allegheny Reservoir is a popular destination for ice fishing enthusiasts. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the reservoir ice during this time.
- Sand Play: The beach features a sandbox and an expansive grassy area, perfect for beach play, games, and sunbathing.
- Picnicking: Visitors can take advantage of the picnic tables, picnic shelters, grills, and paved sidewalks/stairs to enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch or snack.
Rules and Regulations
To ensure the protection of the forest, natural resources, and public safety, visitors are asked to follow certain rules and regulations:
- General Rules: These rules are available online or at any office of the Allegheny National Forest.
- Motorized Vehicles: No motorized vehicles are allowed on the reservoir ice during the winter for ice fishing.
Amenities and Facilities
Kinzua Beach offers a range of amenities and facilities to enhance the visitor experience:
- Beachhouse: The beachhouse at the top of the hill provides changing areas and picnic tables.
- Pavilion: The pavilion has been known to host bird nests, adding to the natural charm of the area.
- Restrooms: Vault restrooms are available for visitors.
- Drinking Water: Drinking water is provided on-site.
Directions and Information
- Directions: From downtown Warren, travel south on Route 6/Crescent Park Drive for 2 miles, then turn left onto Route 59 and travel east for 10.4 miles. The Allegheny National Forest Beach is located on the right.
- Information Center: For more information, visit the Bradford Ranger District at 29 Forest Service Dr., Bradford, PA 16701, or call 814-362-4613 or email sm.fs.anf@usda.gov.
Additional Information
- Water Depth and Temperature: Visitors can check the USGS water data website for up-to-date information on water depth and temperature.
- Wildlife: Ducks and other wildlife can frequently be seen at Kinzua Beach, including the occasional school of fish that swim into the roped-off swimming area.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the Allegheny National Forest Beach, there are several other attractions in the area worth exploring:
- Rimrock Overlook: A scenic viewpoint overlooking the Allegheny Reservoir, accessible via a short drive west from one of the Minister Creek Trail parking lots.
- Jakes Rock Overlook: Another beautiful viewpoint, accessible by making a left after the Kinzua Beach Bridge.
- Kinzua Point: Offers a great view of the Allegheny Reservoir, located on the right-hand side after the Kinzua Beach Bridge.
- Bent Run Waterfall: A waterfall accessible without a hike, located slightly further west.
Accommodations and Packages
For those looking to extend their stay in the Allegheny National Forest area, there are several accommodation options and packages available:
- Kane Manor Inn: Offers a package including a two-night stay, local fare and libations, and activities like wine tasting and beer tasting.
- Lantz Corners Getaway: Provides a fishing package including one overnight stay and a $10 food and beverage voucher.
- Holiday Valley Resort: Offers various packages, including a midweek adventure package and a golf and stay package.
Safety Measures
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, visitors to the Allegheny National Forest Beach are advised to follow the recommended safety measures:
- CDC Guidelines: Masks are mandatory, and maintaining 6 feet of social distancing is required. Many businesses have been impacted by the pandemic, so it is recommended to call ahead to check for changes at your destination before traveling.
Allegheny National Forest Beach, specifically Kinzua Beach, offers a unique and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and amenities. Whether you’re looking to swim, fish, picnic, or simply soak in the natural beauty, this beach provides a perfect escape for a day or a weekend getaway.
References
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/allegheny/recarea/?recid=6093
- https://tripstouncover.com/attractions-in-the-allegheny-national-forest/
- https://visitanf.com/attractions/
- https://visitanf.com/allegheny-reservoir/
- https://pawilds.com/asset/allegheny-reservoir/