Camping at LOCUST LAKE STATE PARK

Overview

Locust Lake State Park, located in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, spans 1,089 acres and is surrounded by beautiful forests and picturesque hills. This state park is a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating. It is centered around a 52-acre Locust Lake, which is an important feature for many of the park's recreational activities.

Camping Information

Reservations and Fees:

• Campsites can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania State Park Reservation System.
• Fees for camping vary depending on the type of site (e.g., tent, RV, cabin) and amenities provided.
• Certain discounts may be available for senior citizens and Pennsylvania residents with disabilities.

Campsite Types:

• The park features tent and trailer sites, some of which have electric hookups.
• Walk-in tent sites are also available for those who prefer a more secluded camping experience.
• There are modern restrooms, warm showers, and laundry facilities available for campers.

Regulations:

• Campers must adhere to established check-in and check-out times.
• Quiet hours are typically enforced to ensure a peaceful environment.
• Certain pet-friendly camping loops may be available, but pets must be kept on leashes and supervised.

Amenities:

• Picnic tables and fire rings can be found at each campsite.
• The camp store offers basic camping supplies and firewood.

Seasonal Availability:

• The campground is usually open from the spring through the fall.
• Specific opening and closing dates may vary, so it's best to check with the park for the current season's schedule.

Recreational Activities

Hiking:

• There are more than 6 miles of trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding area.
• Trails can range from easy to more challenging terrain.

Swimming:

• The park features a sandy beach open from late May to mid-September.
• Lifeguards are on duty at scheduled times.

Fishing and Boating:

• Locust Lake is known for trout fishing and is stocked seasonally.
• Boating with non-powered or electric-powered boats is allowed, and boat rentals may be available.
• A state park launching permit or state boat registration is required to launch a boat.

Other Activities:

• Visitors can also enjoy mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
• During winter, activities like cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating may be available, depending on weather conditions.

Important Tips

• Weather Preparedness: Always check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.
• Wildlife Precautions: Properly store food and dispose of waste to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Leave No Trace: Respect the park's natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles.
• Safety: Always inform someone about your camping plans and expected return.

For the most current information, visiting the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website or contacting the park directly can provide the latest updates regarding conditions, guidelines, and any alerts or advisories that may affect your camping trip.