Lackawanna Lake

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within Lackawanna State Park, including those around Lackawanna Lake. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Lackawanna State Park offers over 18 miles of trails. Popular options include the Lakeside Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake, and various interconnected loops that wind through forested areas. Many hikers enjoy combining sections of different trails to create longer, customized routes. For detailed maps and route planning, visitors can check the park's official resources or use outdoor navigation apps.

Public transportation directly to Lackawanna State Park is limited. The park is most easily accessed by car, located near Dalton on Pennsylvania Route 524, just off exit 199 of Interstate 81. Visitors typically drive to the park and utilize the designated parking areas.

Lackawanna Lake and State Park can become quite popular, especially on warm weekends, holidays, and during the summer and fall foliage seasons. Parking lots tend to fill up quickly, and trails can see increased traffic. Arriving early in the morning is often recommended to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience, particularly if you plan to use the boat launches or picnic areas.

The entire perimeter of Lackawanna Lake offers picturesque views, particularly from the trails that hug the shoreline. Keep an eye out for various overlooks that provide expansive vistas of the water and surrounding woodlands. The forested areas themselves are a natural feature, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and diverse plant life, especially during spring wildflowers and vibrant autumn foliage.

Lackawanna Lake and its surrounding park are home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors often spot white-tailed deer, various small mammals, and a wide array of bird species, including waterfowl on the lake and migratory birds during spring and fall. The lake is also well-stocked with fish, such as trout, bass, crappie, and muskellunge, making it a popular spot for anglers.

Lackawanna Lake is generally suitable for beginner kayakers due to its calm waters, especially on less windy days. The park offers seasonal rentals for canoes and kayaks, making it convenient for those who don't own their own equipment. There are three boat launches available for easy access to the water.

Lackawanna State Park provides a range of camping facilities for visitors. These include tent and trailer sites, as well as more comfortable options like cottages and yurts. The campground typically opens seasonally, offering amenities for an extended stay in nature. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

While Lackawanna State Park itself focuses on natural recreation and offers camping, you'll find various amenities in nearby towns. Dalton, Clarks Summit, and Scranton, all within a short driving distance, offer a selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, and accommodation options ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts. These towns provide convenient services for visitors to the park.

Lackawanna Lake is a man-made lake, formed by the construction of a high dam on the South Branch of the Tunkhannock Creek. The land for the park has a history dating back to 1913, but the dam construction began in 1968, and Lackawanna State Park was officially dedicated on June 10, 1972. The name "Lackawanna" originates from an American Indian word meaning "the meeting of two streams."

No, swimming is prohibited in Lackawanna Lake itself. However, Lackawanna State Park features a public swimming pool and splash pad complex that opens seasonally, providing a designated area for swimming and water play during the warmer months.