Camping at PRESQUE ISLE STATE PARK

Overview of Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie. As Pennsylvania's only "seashore," Presque Isle offers its visitors a beautiful coastline and many recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, bicycling, and in-line skating. The park is located near the city of Erie, in the state of Pennsylvania.

Camping Information

Camping Facilities: Presque Isle State Park itself does not have camping facilities. However, there are several campgrounds in the surrounding area where visitors can stay. Sara’s Campground, located on the peninsula, offers tent and RV sites and is one of the closest camping options to the park.

Nearby Campgrounds:

• Sara's Campground: Situated on both sides of Peninsula Drive. Sara's offers beachfront and lakeside camping for tents and RVs. It also provides amenities like restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
• Lampe Marina Campground: A waterfront facility in the city of Erie that accommodates RV campers.
• Presque Isle Passage RV Park & Cabin Rentals: Offers RV sites, cabins, and tent camping, located a short drive from Presque Isle State Park.

Activities and Recreation

• Swimming: The park features several guarded beaches with facilities. Beach 6, aka "Barracks Beach," is one of the most popular.
• Boating: There are multiple boat launches and marinas within the park, suitable for various types of watercraft.
• Fishing: Lake Erie is well-known for its fantastic fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish for bass, walleye, and perch, among others.
• Hiking and Biking: Miles of trails meander through the park, suitable for walking, running, biking, and even rollerblading.
• Wildlife Viewing: Presque Isle is a significant stopover for migratory birds, making it an excellent location for bird watching.
• Winter Sports: During colder months, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Park Regulations and Safety

• Alcohol: Alcohol is prohibited on all beaches and in most areas of the park.
• Pets: Pets are permitted in designated areas but must be leashed and controlled at all times.
• Fires: Open fires may be restricted to certain areas or may be prohibited based on conditions.
• Fishing License: A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and over.

Reservation and Contact Information

Though you don't need reservations to visit Presque Isle State Park, camping reservations for nearby campgrounds are recommended, especially during peak summer months. Campground contact information varies, so it's best to look up each campground directly for reservation policies and pricing.

Tips for Visiting

• Plan Ahead: Check campground availability and park events before you go.
• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and dress accordingly.
• Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
• Visitor Center: The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) at the entrance of the park is a great resource for information about the park’s ecosystems and history.

Getting There

Presque Isle State Park is accessible via Peninsula Drive, which connects to PA Route 832. The city of Erie provides easy access to accommodations, dining, and other services for visitors to the park.