Get Your Swim On at Pennsylvania's State Parks

A lot of people take family vacations during the summer. Some families trot the globe to international destinations. Others whisk off to exotic beach locations. No matter the destination, these types of vacations are usually carefully planned around parents’ work schedules, kids’ activity schedules and budget allowances.

But, sometimes, it isn’t so easy to plan a family vacation. Often, one parent can’t get off of work, the family budget doesn’t allow for a large trip or the kids are involved in summer activities that require them to stay close to home.

When a big family vacation isn’t in the cards, you have to turn to something else for summer fun—and, day trips are the ticket. Heck, even if you were able to plan a family vacation, a day trip is still a fun idea for after your official vacation is done, or before it begins.

Plenty of day trip destinations come to mind, including amusement parks, fairs, sporting arenas and spas. These are great, but, in my opinion, the best day trips are to places that are far more convenient, affordable and wholesome.

I’m talking about parks—in particular, Pennsylvania State Parks.

Pennsylvania has a number of beautiful state parks, and each has its own unique appeal. One of my favorite park attractions is swimming. There are several parks in the greater-Pittsburgh region that offer, among other things, swimming opportunities.

The following is a list of state parks with swimming attractions. Each of these parks is less than two hours away from Peters.

Check out the Pennsylvania State Parks website for dates, hours and any other restrictions, limitations or conditions.

Moraine State Park: Chose from two swimming beaches. The 1,200-foot beach on the South Shore has a paved entry into the water and is close to a volleyball court and playground. Showers, changing areas, restrooms, picnic tables and concession stands are available at this beach, as well as at the 550-foot beach on the North Shore. Other attractions include fishing, hiking, biking, bike rental, boat launch, boat rental and windsurfing.

Laurel Hill State Park: 1,200 feet of sandy beach awaits—as do more than 500 picnic tables, a variety of hiking trails, multiple fishing streams, a ball field, a volleyball court, playgrounds and horshoe pits. There is a handicap accessible ramp into the lake, and nearby restrooms and concessions. In addition to boat launch locations, boat, paddleboat, canoe and kayak rental is available.

Yellow Creek State Park: The 800-foot swimming beach is close to picnic tables, restrooms, charcoal grills and a snack bar. Fishing, hiking, biking, boat launch and boat rental are also popular. Handicap accessible camping cottages and yurts are available for rent.

Raccoon State Park: A 500-foot swimming beach attracts park-goers. There is a restroom and food stand nearby. The park also features picnic tables, hiking trails, biking trails, boat launch, fishing piers and horseback trails. There are no horse rentals. Handicap accessible.

Keystone State Park: Enjoy a 350-foot swimming beach, with a nearby concession stand, restroom and picnic area. Other attractions include fishing areas, biking trails and boat launch. Handicap accessible.

Kooser State Park: The 350-foot beach is adjacent to a handicap accessible changing area/restroom and multiple picnic areas. Hiking and fishing are other popular attractions. Cabins are available for rental.

When visiting these, or any, parks, remember to follow all posted park rules and to clean up after yourself. And, remember to have fun!