Allegheny National Forest, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, offers a wealth of natural wonders, including several designated swimming holes and beaches that provide the perfect respite from the summer heat. Whether you’re seeking a serene lakefront experience, a family-friendly outing, or a chance to cool off after a hike, the Allegheny National Forest has something for everyone.
Designated Swimming Areas in Allegheny National Forest
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Kinzua Beach: Located on the Allegheny Reservoir, this beach offers a lakefront swimming experience with a sandy area, grassy spaces for picnicking, and a depth of at least 8 feet. While there are no lifeguards, it’s a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the water.
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Chapman State Park: Adjacent to the Allegheny National Forest, this 805-acre state park features a 68-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and other water activities. Visitors can also explore the park’s camping, cottages, yurts, and hiking trails.
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Clear Creek State Park: This 48-acre state park boasts a small beach area for swimming, as well as rustic cabins, camping, hiking trails, and a frisbee golf course.
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Hyner Run State Park: In addition to a swimming pool, this 180-acre park offers opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, picnicking, and modern cabin rentals.
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Lyman Run State Park: Spanning 595 acres, this park provides access to a 45-acre lake where visitors can swim, fish, and boat. Hiking and hunting are also popular activities.
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Ole Bull State Park: Situated along Kettle Creek, this 132-acre park offers swimming and fishing, as well as camping, modern cabin rentals, picnicking, and hiking.
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Sizerville State Park: Surrounded by Elk State Forest, this 386-acre park allows visitors to swim, fish, hunt, hike, and picnic.
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Tionesta Creek & Clarion River: These waterways offer numerous spots for swimming, including the popular Frog Rock on Tionesta Creek and the deep hole just upstream of the Kellettville Bridge.
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Hector’s Falls: Located in the northern part of the forest, this scenic waterfall is a popular swimming destination after a hike.
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Allegheny River: Visitors can take a refreshing dip below the Kinzua Dam.
Rules and Amenities
- Designated Swimming Areas: Most swimming beaches have designated areas marked off with buoys, and visitors are encouraged to stay within these boundaries due to boat traffic.
- Lifeguards: None of the swimming areas in the Allegheny National Forest have lifeguards on duty, so all swimming is at your own risk.
- Amenities: Depending on the location, visitors may find picnic tables, shelters, grills, restrooms, bathhouses, and paved walkways near the swimming areas.
Directions and Contact Information
- Kinzua Beach: From downtown Warren, travel south on Route 6/Crescent Park Drive for 2 miles, then turn left/east onto Route 59 and travel east for 10.4 miles. The site is located on the right.
- Chapman State Park: Located adjacent to the Allegheny National Forest.
- Contact Information: Bradford Ranger District, 29 Forest Service Dr., Bradford, PA 16701, Phone: 814-362-4613, Email: sm.fs.anf@usda.gov.
Cost and Timings
- Fees: There is no fee for swimming at Kinzua Beach.
- Operational Hours: The swimming areas are open during daylight hours.
- Open Season: The swimming season typically runs from April 4 to December 16.
Additional Information
- Water Conditions: Visitors can check water depth and temperature on the USGS water data website to plan their visit.
- Wildlife: Ducks and other wildlife can frequently be seen in the swimming areas, and the occasional school of fish may even swim into the roped-off zones.
Exploring the Allegheny National Forest’s swimming holes and beaches is a fantastic way to cool off, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning region. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a solo adventure, or a group excursion, these designated swimming areas offer a refreshing and memorable experience.
References:
– Swimming Holes in Pennsylvania
– Allegheny National Forest Recreation Areas
– Swimming in the PA Wilds
– Swimming Spots in the Allegheny National Forest
– Water Activities in the Allegheny National Forest