Fun Things To Do at Raystown Lake PA: A Complete Guide
Raystown Lake is the perfect place to vacation for those with a sense of adventure. This 30-mile recreational lake covers 8300 acres and offers over 110 miles of mostly uninhabited shoreline. It is the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania and the perfect place for your next getaway.
**Disclaimer: This was a hosted stay, however, all opinions are my own. I strive to provide my readers with my most authentic sentiments.
Dubbed the “Crown Jewel of Pennsylvania, ”this beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains, state forests, charming small towns, lakeside resorts, and summer cottages. If you’re looking for a lakeside vacation with tons of fun things to do that will satisfy the entire family, look no further than Raystown Lake. This summer destination offers a plethora of activities. Whether it is camping, biking, hiking, time on the water, or sightseeing you desire you will find it in Huntingdon County.
Where is Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake located in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania is approximately 3-½ hours from Philadelphia, Baltimore, and DC. And just over 2-1/2 hours from Pittsburgh. Centrally located within the state, it is easily accessible by car and an easy drive from regional airports in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and even DC and Baltimore. Additionally, Huntingdon is a stop on Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian Line.
The nearest town is Huntingdon and the closest city is Altoona, PA. It is just one hour from State College, the home of Penn State University and the Nittany Lions.
Raystown Lake History
Raystown Lake is a large man-made reservoir located in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. The present-day lake was created in the mid-20th century as part of a flood control project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
But before that, a small lake was built by a local family, the Simpsons, to produce hydroelectric power. The lake was created by damming the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River. The original shallow lake was completed in 1911 and was only about a quarter of the size of the modern-day Raystown Reservoir. However, the topography of the areas created a natural runoff into the gulley leading to major flooding in 1936 that devastated the Juniata & Susquehannock River Valleys. This laid bare the need for a new and larger dam. The Raystown Dam and Lake you see today was.
Authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1962, construction on the Raystown Dam began in the early 1960s. The dam was built across the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, creating a large reservoir that spans over 8,000 acres and has over 110 miles of shoreline. At its deepest point, the lake is over 200 feet deep. Completed in 1973, the Raystown Dam was dedicated in 1974 by President Gerald Ford
The lake and construction of the 1700-foot long and 225-foot high dam had a significant impact. The flooding caused by the dam submerged several small towns and communities and forced many residents to relocate.
Nevertheless, Raystown Lake has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The lake and surrounding area offer boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and more. The lake is also a popular spot for swimming, water skiing, and other water sports during the summer months.
Over the years, Raystown Lake has become an important economic driver for the Huntingdon County area. The lake and surrounding region attract visitors from all over the country, and the local tourism industry has grown significantly in recent years.
Today, Raystown Lake is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike and continues to play an important role in the economy and culture of the Huntingdon County region.
Enjoy Raystown Lake and the Seven Points Recreation Area
Seven Points Marina Recreation Area is the central hub for many activities at Raystown Lake. Here you will find tons of fun activities on and off the water.
Boating and Other Water Activities
Boating is a favorite pastime on this 30-mile-long recreational lake. There are no restrictions on horsepower or size of boat so you will often see vessels towing wakeboarders, water skiers, kneeboarders, and tubes. Jet skis are permitted as well. Plus you will be sharing the waterways with unpowered vessels such as kayaks and canoes. Please keep all of this in mind when out on this extremely busy body of water. Safety First!
If you bring your own boat, you will find boat launches at Snyder’s Run, Aitch, James Creek, Tatman Run, Shy Beaver, and Weaver Falls. You will want to arrive at the boat launch as early as possible to get your boat in the water without a wait and claim your parking spot.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day you can get boat launch status reports from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Raystown Lake Facebook page.
Rent a Pontoon Boat
These are not your grandfather’s pontoon boats. We’re talking about high-speed boats ranging from 90 to 200 hp. These boats can accommodate up to 12 people (except the 90hp which is limited to 8). Some boats are equipped with slides and most include tubes and water skis.
A pontoon boat provides all-day fun and excitement on the water. But if you are more interested in casting a line and doing a bit of fishing or cruising around the lake in style you can do that too.
Rentals are available from Seven Points Marina.
Kayak on the Lake
Bring your kayak or rent one from Seven Points Marina, where you can rent one by the hour or the day.
Spend the day paddling around this massive lake. The great thing about kayaks is they allow you to tuck into private coves and places the big boats can’t reach. Additionally, with a kayak you don’t need to find a boat launch and wait your turn.
Spend a Day at the Beach
Raystown Lake has two public beaches: A large swimming area near Seven Points Marina and a smaller one at Tatman Run Recreation Area.
Seven Points Beach
Seven Points Beach, located near Seven Points Marina, is a great spot for family fun in the sun. This beach is comprised of two smaller swimming areas. The larger of the two beaches has a concrete bottom and deeper water. In the same area tucked within a cove, you’ll find the second and smaller beach with a sand bottom swimming area often called, “kiddie” beach.
If coming by boat, the beach is on the lake’s western shore near the Seven Points Marina between mile markers 8 and 9. For your convenience, you will find a courtesy dock (30-minute max.) and mooring post available for day use.
At this waterfront recreation area, you’ll find water trampolines, a playground, and sandboxes for the kids. Amenities include bathroom facilities with flush toilets, changing houses with showers, and a full-service concession stand.
The hillside surrounding the beach offers both open grassy areas and shaded spots. You’ll find picnic areas with tables and grills, along with a larger picnic shelter (reserve Oak Shelter) for gatherings. These shelters are handicap accessible, have 20 amp electrical service, water hook up, and pets are permitted.
The recreation area is open from dawn to dusk from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Tatman Run Recreation Area
Tatman Run Recreation Area is the perfect place to spend a summer day. The recreation area resides on the south end of the lake within a cozy cove on the lake’s eastern shore.
A small sand beach with a designated swimming area awaits visitors. Just beyond the beach, an open grassy area with gentle terraces provides an inviting space to relax. While shade is limited along the shoreline, a picnic shelter provides a delightful spot for outdoor gatherings in any weather.
Tatman Run Beach offers various amenities, including vault toilet restrooms, picnic tables, potable water, and grills. A changing house is available for added convenience. Additionally, a playground and a nearby boat launch enhance the recreational options.
In partnership with SeaTow, a newly installed lifejacket loaner station allows beach-goers to borrow lifejackets, for free!
Fishing on Raystown Lake
Bring your fishing pole and get ready to cast your line because Raystown Lake is well-known for its bass fishing. Whether you fish from a boat or the shores, you’re in for a treat.
Raystown Lake is known as the Freshwater Striped Bass Capital of the Northeast United States, the current Pennsylvania record for freshwater striped bass was caught here in 1994. It was a 53-pound, 12-ounce behemoth.
In addition to striped bass, anglers also have an opportunity to reel in Catfish, Carp, large and smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Muskellunge, Trout (Lake, Brown, and Rainbow), Atlantic Salmon, Perch, Smelt, Crappy, and Bluegill.
Several companies offer guide services that will take you to the best spots for fishing. Angry Musky Outfitters departs from Lake Raystown Resort’s Marina and offers daily charter fishing trips for up to four persons for five hours. They also have evening excursions.
If you want to learn about the origins of the bass you are catching in the lake, visit the Pennsylvania Striped Bass Association Fish Hatchery. You will learn what it takes to keep the lake stocked since these fish can not breed naturally here.
Explore the Raystown Lake Visitor Center
The Raystown Visitor Center is more than just a place to gather brochures from a kiosk. It is the office of the Army Corps of Engineers and the home of the Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau. As such, you will find informative staff well-versed in the entire region.
When you arrive at the Visitors Center you are greeted by stunning perennial gardens that attract pollinators. Within the center, you will find educational and interesting interactive exhibits where you can learn about local flora and fauna and more.
Step outside onto the observation deck to take in some outstanding lake views. The platform overlooks Seven Points Marina and provides a perfect spot to grab a photo.
You will also find clean restrooms and the Raystown Reflections Gift Shoppe. Here you can pick up a snack or souvenir including local products such as handiworks from local artisans, honey, and books by local authors.
Try the Raystown Lake Skills Park
In 2016 the Raystown Mountain Bike Skills Park opened across from the Visitor Center. The skills park consists of 2 acres of skill features including berms, natural and fabricated features, and some small, vertical drops. here are multiple trails to accommodate riders of various skill levels. It’s a nice complement to the Allegrippis Trails. And it is super fun!!
Take a Walk on the Greenside Path
Around the visitor center, you can walk the Greenside Path, a 2.5-mile rubberized pathway made from recycled tires. The walkway loops around Seven Points Recreation Area and past the beach.
Play Disc Golf
Disc Golf may be new to you, but it’s been around since the 1970s and has grown in popularity recently. It’s estimated that over a half million Americans play regularly. And it is a recognized sport governed by the Professional Disc Golf Association.
Now you can play during your stay on the lake. In early 2022, Pine 9, a 9-hole disc golf course, opened near the Visitor Center. And in Spring 2023, Ravine 18 (18 holes) opened, near the Skills Park in spring 2023.
Disc golf follows rules similar to regular golf but rather than hitting a ball with a club, players aim to toss a disc into an elevated metal basket. Players start at a designated tee and move down the fairway toward that target. Like golf, the goal is to play each “hole” in the fewest “strokes” possible. The player with the lowest score wins.
Players can rent or purchase discs at the Raystown Lake Visitor Center.
Looking for things to do beyond the Lake? Take a look at my article,Fun Things To Do In Huntingdon, PA.
Hike the Old Loggers Trail
The Old Loggers Trail is a popular hiking trail that traverses old logging roads, farm roads, and deer paths. This 4.5-mile trail is accessed near the entrance to Seven Points Campground or just before the Susquehannock Campground entrance.
The 500 acres surrounding the path are managed through a partnership between the Ruffed Grouse Society and the Army Corps of Engineers. The alliance is meant to improve the habitat for wildlife species including, the ruffed grouse, woodcock, and others.
In addition to typical trail maintenance, management of the area includes wetland enhancements and the installation of trailside exhibits and tree identification signs. Its purpose is to demonstrate management techniques being duplicated and used on a larger scale throughout the Raystown Lake Project.
Stay on Raystown Lake
If you are going to vacation at Raystown Lake, you may as well stay on the lake. A stay on the lake can come in a variety of accommodation types, from primitive camping to a lakeside villa and everything in between. Here are just a few of your options.
Stay on a houseboat
Make the most of your stay on the lake by renting a houseboat. Seven Points Marina offers houseboat rentals that accommodate from 4 to 10 people. Each boat is equipped with a gas grill, patio furniture, a large cooler, as well as heat and air conditioning. Some even have hot tubs and slides. You will find a fully equipped kitchen, a full bath with a shower, and fresh and wastewater-holding tanks as well as all required safety equipment.
And we’re not talking about staying docked at the marina either. Pilot your vessel to a secluded cove and rope off to swim, fish, or relax in the tranquility. Stay out on the water for the day or the week.
Camping on Raystown Lake
Camping at Raystwon Lake is an incredibly popular activity. So much so that you often need to reserve your spot months in advance. If plan to camp, don’t delay making a reservation, especially for holiday weekends or you will likely miss out. Also, note that peak weekends often require minimum stays.
Nancy’s Boat to Shore Campground
If you are looking to get away from it all then Nancy’s Boat to Shore Campground might be perfect for you. This 50-site tent camping-only campground situated near the James Creek and Aitch Boat Launchs is accessible only by boat from the water.
These are primitive camping facilities with no potable water or electric hook-up. Vaulted toilets are available but not showers and outdoor shower tents are not permitted.
There are 17 waterfront sites with the others spread among both grassy and wooded areas. Two tents per site are permitted. Each site offers a picnic table and campfire ring. According to ratings on Recreation.gov internet access is available but past campers report that it’s spotty.
Open April 1 through Oct. 30 (Reservations required) with a 14-day maximum stay
Rate: $15/site
Seven Points Campground
Seven Points Campground offers 261 single-family campsites situated around six camping loops. 250 sites accommodate RV hook-ups and permit a maximum of 2 camping units per campsite, one of which must be a tent. For larger groups, group camping sites are available.
Each loop provides restrooms, showers (outdoor shower tents are not permitted), accessible drinking water, and playgrounds. Plus, you will find coin-operated laundry facilities within the campground.
The campsites are spacious and equipped with a picnic table, fire grill, lantern hanger, and tent pads. Many sites offer electric hookups. Internet service is available however, users report that it is spotty.
The Greenside Pathway connects the campgrounds to all recreational facilities within Seven Points. For added convenience, you’ll find groceries, bait, tackle, and gas within a mile of the sites.
Open April 1 through Oct. 30 (Reservations required) with a 14-day maximum stay
Rate: Sites range from $28 to $46 depending on location, hook-up type, and improvements. The rate for group sites is $200.
For stays that include a Friday or Saturday night, a minimum of two nights is required when booking. During three-day holiday weekends, you must book at least three nights for any stay that includes a Friday or Saturday night.
Susquehannock Campground
This primitive campground has over 60 campsites, including more than 20 tent-only sites. Many are waterfront, while others are just a short walk to the water’s edge. Each campsite allows a maximum of 2 camping units. At least one unit must be a tent.
There are no electric hookups available at the Susquehannock Campground. However, vault toilet restrooms and drinking water are provided. For showers, campers can use the ones at nearby Seven Points Beach. Outdoor shower tents are prohibited. Coin-operated laundry facilities are available at the Seven Points Campground.
Internet access is available. Based on ratings from recreation.gov, this campground has the most reliable service with users rating it as “good.”
Conveniently, the campground is located only three miles away from groceries, a bait shop, a gas station, and a full-service marina.
Open April 1 thru Oct. 30 (Reservations required) with a 14-day maximum stay
Rate: Sites range from $20 to $32 depending on location and improvements.
For stays that include a Friday or Saturday night, a minimum of two nights is required when booking. During three-day holiday weekends, you must book at least three nights for any stay that includes a Friday or Saturday night.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR ALL CAMPERS
Campfires are an enjoyable part of the camping experience but to protect Pennsylvania from exotic invasive species please buy and burn only locally cut firewood. If you have brought firewood from another area, BURN IT. Do not leave it. Do not take it with you.
Liquid waste, such as gray water, must be disposed of at the Seven Points Dump Station.
Stay and Play at Lake Raystown Resort
Lake Raystown Resort is a vacation resort offering a range of accommodations from tent camping to luxury villas. The resort offers a range of amenities including private beaches, boat rentals, a full-service marina with slip rentals, boat launches, eateries, and its own waterpark.
Wildriver Waterpark offers fun for the entire family. Float along on the White Water Inner Tube Ride, or get your heart pumping with a whoosh down one of the park’s two 380-foot twisting slides. The park also features a heated swimming pool and the Children’s Splash and Play Pool!
Plan a Winter Fireplace Getaway
While the Raystown Lake region of Pennsylvania is best known as a summer resort, winter is also a lovely time to visit. Raystown Lake is the perfect destination to unplug and unwind. Imagine snuggling beside a fireplace while gazing out on a frozen Raystown Lake.
Plan a family or friends’ trip with a Winter Fireplace Getaway. Select from one of the participating lodging facilities and book a stay between January and March. This package is for groups of 4-20 people. Groups can choose from several experiences included with their stays such as coffee cupping, a local farm experience, Lincoln Cavern Blacklight Adventure, and more.
Take in the View from Ridenour and Hawn’s Overlook
Hawn’s Overlook and Ridenour Overlook are situated at the end of Henderson Overlook Road. The road’s name implies that there is a place called Henderson Overlook. There isn’t.
At the road’s end, you’ll find an ample gravel parking lot with two designated handicap-accessible spaces, complete with van accessibility. The Ridenour Overlook, located within the first 0.1 miles of the trail, is the most accessible portion. The entire trail is considered to have a mostly gentle grade of 5% or less. However, beyond the initial section, the surface type and grade may require all-terrain tires or motorized equipment for optimal accessibility.
Ridenour Overlook is conveniently located adjacent to the parking area, offering wheelchair accessibility and a north-facing view. It showcases the Raystown Lake Dam, the northern part of Raystown Lake, and even the Raystown Dam Pagoda Overlook.
Hawn’s Overlook provides a breathtaking panoramic view facing south and southwest. It offers an unobstructed vantage point over the valley below, showcasing Raystown Lake with its islands and peninsulas. When you reach the overlook you’ll find a stone pillar fence, information signage, and a single bench. Take a moment to enjoy the view and the solitude.
The trail to Hawn’s Overlook is a 0.5-mile out-and-back route. This trail can be accessed from stairs in the parking lot or via a flat path from Ridenour Overlook. The trail itself is typically at least 6 feet wide and features a gravel surface. It passes through a scenic forest and involves a slight descent of about 50 feet,
The trail is considered easy and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Along the route, there are benches available for resting and taking in the surroundings. The trail is open year-round and welcomes leashed dogs.
Wildlife Watching
Raystown Lake and the greater Huntingdon County are home to many species of wildlife including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. You won’t need to go out of your way to encounter the many species native to the area. Keep your binoculars handy. You’ll want to see these magnificent creatures close up. But not too close-up. Never disturb the wildlife!!
Fall Leaf Peeping
Autumn may be the best time of the year to visit the beautiful Raystown Lake area. In fall, when the crowds have gone and the air begins to turn crisp, plan a weekend of leaf peeping. While things may not be in full swing, you will still find plenty to do around the region. Most of the attractions stay open through October and most of the activities listed here remain available to visitors.
Mountain Bike the Allegrippis Trails
Allegrippis Mountain Biking Trails are a system of trails designed by MTB riders and built by the Army Corps of Engineers in conjunction with the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) at Raystown Lake. This trail system is known to be one of the best trail systems in Pennsylvania. Its 36 miles consist of 24 multi-use trails arranged as stacked loops that offer a flowy ride with moderate to vigorous inclines, stream crossings, and wildlife viewing areas. And you will find some spectacular views of the lake.
Pennsylvania is known for its rocky trails and you will find plenty of them here. The trials are considered to be intermediate level but the loop system progresses from beginner trials to more difficult ones.
You will find parking and trailheads along Seven Points Road and on Bakers Hollow Road just before the Susquehannock Campground Entrance Station. If you park at the Bakers Hollow parking lot you will work your way down to the lake. From here you can have someone pick you up and shuttle you back to your car. Mountain bikers looking for a ride with more climbing should do it in reverse.
Hike the Terrace Mountain Trail
Terrace Mountain Trail, a well-known hiking route near Raystown Lake, stretches about 27 miles along the lake’s eastern side. The trail offers diverse terrain, including steep ascents, rocky stretches, and numerous scenic viewpoints, such as the Eagle’s Nest Overlook, which provides impressive views of Raystown Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Starting at the Seven Points Recreation Area, the trail winds through the dense forests and rugged landscapes of Terrace Mountain. Near Tatman Run, hikers will encounter one of two steep valleys along the ridge. As the trail continues, it enters Rothrock Forest, a protected wildlife area.
After crossing Great Trough Creek, hikers can find the ice mine, a cool spot where ice is often present from spring through August.
The trail splits around mile 16.5: the upper trail runs along the ridge, and the lower takes you to the lake. While the trail continues from here, according to the Army Corps of Engineers site, the last 10 miles remain under construction.
This trail is both scenic and challenging, with its steep climbs and rocky sections. Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous trek and carry plenty of water and snacks.
Visit Rothrock State Forest and the Parks Within It
Rothrock Forest located in central Pennsylvania near State College spans over 96,000 acres and is named after Dr. Joseph Trimble Rothrock, Pennsylvania’s “Father of Forestry.” Within Rothrock Forest, visitors can explore four State Parks (Whipple Dam, Greenwood Furnace, Penn Roosevelt, and Trough Creek) and various Wild and Natural areas. The forest offers awe-inspiring vistas, an extensive trail network, as well as unique and varied natural areas.
Explore the Wild and Natural Areas of Rothrock State Forest
Deep within Rothrock State Forest, Thickhead Mountain Wild Area covers 4,886 acres of mixed-oak forest with rhododendron undergrowth. It includes Detweiler Run Natural Area, Bear Meadows Natural Area, and Big Flat Laurel Viewing Area.
Bear Meadows Natural Area features a rare wetland ecosystem surrounded by steep mountains. It is a haven for unique organisms typically found only in remote areas of Canada and Siberia.
Alan Seeger Natural Area is a 390-acre tract along Standing Stone Creek. A nature trail leads through a magnificent forest of old-growth hardwoods and towering hemlock trees. Nearby, Colyer Lake Dam provides scenic surroundings and over 200 species of birds and waterfowl.
Enjoy a Boat Tour on the Proud Mary Showboat
You will board the Proud Mary at the Lake Raystown Resort Marina. From here you will head south on the lake for approximately 5 miles before making your way back to the dock. There is an informative narration that offers facts about the lake, its creation, and history as well as some local lore about a mythical monster that lurks beneath the lake’s surface.
This paddlewheel boat has two levels: the enclosed lower level with a snack bar, restrooms, and seating, and the open-air upper deck with seating and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Relax and take in the breathtaking views on this 90-minute tour. The top deck is perfect for capturing photos and enjoying the breeze off the water.
There is no better way to see Raystown Lake from the water. Cruising during the fall when the leaves are changing hues is a treat.
In addition to sightseeing cruises, breakfast, and dinner cruises are also available. Finally, if you are planning a lake wedding or special event and want to dazzle your guests, then you may want to look into chartering the Proud Mary.
