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11 Fun Things to Do at Lake Wallenpaupack, PA

11 Fun Things to Do at Lake Wallenpaupack, PA

Lake Wallenpaupack is a beautiful freshwater lake located in Pennsylvania. The lake is a popular tourist destination and offers many activities, such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and skiing.

The lake was created in 1926 to provide hydroelectric power to the surrounding area. Today, the lake is still a popular spot for recreation and relaxation. Here we have listed some of the best things you can do at Lake Wallenpaupack:

Swimming

Lake Wallenpaupack is a place to go for all kinds of summer fun. There are many activities you can do that will help keep the family happy and busy this summer, such as swimming, hiking, and biking.

There is a sandy beach on the lake near The Lodge at Wallenpaupack, where you can swim in the summertime. In addition to swimming, you can also do many other water activities, such as fishing and canoeing.

If you would rather not swim in the lake but still want to get wet, there is a waterpark on the premises with a wave pool, lazy river, and many other water activities.

Aerial view of young woman swimming on the pink swim ring in the

Boating and Kayaking

Boating and kayaking are two of the main water activities at Lake Wallenpaupack. The lake has a wide variety of boats to rent, from fishing boats to motorboats. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

There is something for everyone to do on Lake Wallenpaupack! You can rent a pontoon, kayak, or paddleboard to enjoy the lake. Or, you can charter a captained boat for a more personalized experience.

a man riding on a raft in a body of water

Visit the beach

The Wallenpaupack Lake has three public beaches for you to enjoy. The beach is a great place to swim and explore, with many activities that can be done there, including kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.

If you are looking for a more private beach experience, take your towel down to the inlet at Marina Beach. You can relax on some of the many available benches or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the beach. The beaches at Wallenpaupack Lake are open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

a large body of water

Fishing

Fishing is a popular pastime at Lake Wallenpaupack. The catchable fish include Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Bluegill, and Brown Trout. There are many fishing spots, and the lake offers great fishing year-round.

Fishing licenses are required for anglers over 16 years old. The license costs $14 per day or $45 for the year. Fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset. There are also special fishing regulations for the lake, such as a ban on live bait.

Fishing can be a great bonding experience with your kids. You can start by heading to one of the marinas to pick up bait and tackle. Then, find a good spot to fish and enjoy watching your kids catch their first fish.

A five-year-old boy fishing from a boat

Visit the local Museums.

A few local museums near Lake Wallenpaupack offer interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. A trolley museum is an excellent option for those who want to learn about the area’s history and see how transportation has changed over time.

The children’s museum is perfect for younger visitors, as it offers interactive displays and activities that will educate and entertain them.

Lastly, the art museum is a must-see for any art lovers out there, as it showcases the work of local artists and provides insight into the creative process.

Young intercultural man and woman discussing one of paintings

Hiking

Plenty of hiking trails around Lake Wallenpaupack are perfect for a day out. Make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen with you to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

There are various trails to choose from, so whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, you’ll be able to find the perfect one for you. You should head to the West Shore Trail for a more challenging hike. This trail is 3 miles long and features several steep sections.

There are also several side trails that you can take if you’d like to make this hike longer. There are also several spots along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the views of Lake Wallenpaupack. 

Hike in the forest

Camping

Lake Wallenpaupack is an excellent place to camp. Many campgrounds are available for camping, such as the Wilsonville Recreation Area, Caffrey Recreation Area, and the Lake Wallenpaupack Campground.

There are many fun things to do there as well. Hiking, biking, boating, and fishing are just a few of the things you can do at Lake Wallenpaupack.

Man camping in Estonia, watching sunset lying in tent

Bird Watching

It is essential to bring along binoculars and insect repellent to have the best bird-watching experience. It is also a good idea to wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

The best place to go for bird watching is by a lake where you can walk around and explore any exciting trails.

Young blonde woman bird watcher

Visit the Playgrounds

Lake Wallenpaupack is home to several playgrounds, some for children and others for adults. The Riverfront Park has three sets of swings and two slides; the Upper Playground is geared toward younger children as it has a wavy slide, monkey bars, and ladders.

Claws “N” Paws Animal Park is a great place to visit with kids. The facility offers different experiences for different age groups, including animal feeding times. Check ahead of time about feeding schedules to avoid long lines.

Father with daughter sliding on a playground

Try the Delicious Variety of Foods

The food at Lake Wallenpaupack is fresh and local. You can find a variety of food at the stores around the lake. The store supports local farmers and producers.

The lake is also home to a variety of restaurants. They serve fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, bread, and other products. The food is also very affordable. You can get a whole meal for less than $10.

You can find anything from an upscale restaurant with fresh seafood and steak to a small diner that serves the best burgers in town.

Black woman taking photo of food in street restaurant

Mountain biking

Mountain biking is a popular sport in the area, and there are many places to rent bikes or buy supplies for your ride. You can also find many trails to ride, and the locals will be glad to give you directions.

Positive sporty male holding yellow mountain bicycle.

Picnicking

The picnic area at Lake Wallenpaupack is a great place to enjoy the scenery and have some food. Many areas offer tables and grills for use by campers, with firewood available for purchase.

There is also a playground, boat rental, and a snack bar. The picnic area is open year-round, although the hours vary by season.

Two young female friends having picnic on a beach drinking cocktails

Visit the local shops

There are several local shops available near Lake Wallenpaupack that offer a variety of unique items and services.

The Wayne Pike Sullivan Antique Dealers Association regularly hosts antique shows and sales where you can find various items. Penny Lane Candies & Candles in Hawley stocks various gifts, including candles, toys, and hot sauces.

Woman shopping local

Meet the locals and Make some new Friends

The locals of the Lake Wallenpaupack area can be found in many places. Along the lake, there are a number of shops and restaurants where you can get to know them.

Several small towns and villages are located near the lake. Each has a different feel, but they all have friendly people who will be glad to welcome you.

a couple of people that are sitting on a bench

What are the best times to visit Lake Wallenpaupack?

During the summer, the temperatures are typically high enough that you can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. This is when the lake is at its busiest, so it is recommended to visit during these times.

How to get to Lake Wallenpaupack?

The best way to get to Lake Wallenpaupack is by car. The lake is about 2 hours from New York City and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia.

There are a few different ways to get to the lake, but the most direct route is through Scranton. From Scranton, take I-81 N to exit 17 for PA-507 N/Lake Ariel. Follow PA-507 for about 16 miles until you reach the lake.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a place to get away and relax, Lake Wallenpaupack is the perfect destination. This guide has a list of 11 different activities that will keep you entertained, from swimming to bird watching to fishing. Whether you’re looking for an activity to do with friends or just some peace, this guide has something for you.