Summer is here in full swing, and it is HOT! Swimming and playing in the water are some of the best ways to entertain children of all ages, and enjoy being outside while also staying cool. Our local area has many wonderful places to swim in nature, and we’ve compiled a list of six of the very best!
And, if you are interested in swimming pools in the area, see our listing here:
Interested in lessons:
Lake Jean @ Rickett’s Glen State Park
What We Love:
A beautiful 245-acre lake that spans areas in both Luzerne and Sullivan Counties
Water is fairly shallow-with an average depth of about 6 feet-making it very approachable and swim-friendly to kids of all ages
Clean, attractive beach with lots of room to swim
Eating options: a great concessions stand or places to picnic
Summer boat rentals
The Haystacks @ Loyalsock Trail
What We Love:
Great for bigger kids-trail has some challenging bits at the beginning but fairly easy thereafter, and is approximately 4 miles round trip
A rocky, rapids-style area where you can swim, climb and play
The trek is well worth it! The rapids and pools are extremely fun to slide down and swim around in.
Near beautiful World’s End State Park in Sullivan County
Expert Tip: Bring your hiking shoes or sneakers, a bathing suit and towel, and a picnic lunch!
Be sure to explore our Kids’ Directory to find other outdoor places to take the kids!
Kocher Park & Johnson Flats
What We Love:
Free, open to the public, and pet friendly; a Bloomsburg favorite among locals and visitors alike!
Great swimming and playing on the banks near the water of the creek
Well maintained trails
Access for boating and fishing
Matt Kisner Pavilion provides shaded area to enjoy a picnic or activity
Sand Spring Lake @ Hickory Run State Park
What We Love:
Lake features a sandy beach and a snack bar with food, drinks, and ice cream
Hiking trails and several streams to explore
Hickory Run is home to Boulder Field, a striking National Natural Landmark
Beautiful views of the Pocono mountains
Halfway Lake @ Raymond B. Winter State Park
What We Love:
A beautiful, spring fed lake complete with a white sand beach, playground area, and concessions
Picnic area, pavilion, and a beach volleyball court
Halfway Lake Dam- the focal point of the lake- is a hand-laid, native sandstone dam with a beautiful waterfall
Biking, camping, and fishing opportunities
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Tuscarora State Park
Beautiful lake where families can swim, picnic, boat, play on the playground, and fish
A pavilion makes a great place to eat or snack
Camp grounds for those who wish to make a weekend of the fun!
The lake features a scenic view of Locust Mountain, which looks as though it falls right into the south side of the lake