The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, boasting an array of stunning lakes surrounded by lush forests and picturesque mountain views. Whether you're looking for adventure on the water or a peaceful retreat in nature, exploring the lakes of the Pocono Mountains promises unforgettable experiences. Here's a comprehensive guide to the top 15 lakes in the Pocono Mountains that you shouldn't miss:

1. Lake Wallenpaupack

Location: Pike and Wayne Counties
Description: Lake Wallenpaupack is the largest lake in the Pocono Mountains, spanning 5,700 acres with 52 miles of shoreline. Known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, the lake offers boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Visitors can rent boats, enjoy lakeside dining, or simply relax on one of the public beaches while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Lake Harmony

Scandinavian lake view

Location: Carbon County
Description: Nestled amidst the mountains, Lake Harmony is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and vacationers. The lake's crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches attract visitors for activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Nearby attractions include Big Boulder Ski Area, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter months, making Lake Harmony a year-round destination for outdoor recreation.

3. Lake Naomi

Location: Pocono Pines
Description: Lake Naomi is a private lake community known for its pristine beauty and family-friendly amenities. Surrounded by forests, the lake offers a sandy beach, swimming pools, sailing, and kayaking. The community hosts year-round events, including concerts and community gatherings, making it a popular choice for families seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure.

4. Promised Land Lake

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Location: Promised Land State Park, Pike County
Description: Promised Land Lake is nestled within Promised Land State Park, encompassing 3,000 acres of natural beauty. The lake is surrounded by hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including hemlock forests and wetlands, while enjoying the tranquility of this natural oasis.

5. Beltzville Lake

Location: Beltzville State Park, Carbon County
Description: Beltzville Lake is a 949-acre reservoir located within Beltzville State Park. The lake is surrounded by forests and rolling hills, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Anglers can catch bass, trout, and panfish, while hikers can explore trails that wind through the park's woodlands, providing scenic views of the lake and its surroundings.

6. Tobyhanna Lake

Location: Tobyhanna State Park
Description: Tobyhanna Lake is a 170-acre lake situated within Tobyhanna State Park, known for its clear waters and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking along the park's trails, which offer panoramic views of the lake and its shoreline. The park also features picnic areas, swimming beaches, and wildlife observation opportunities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Deer Lake

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Location: Deer Lake Club, Pocono Lake
Description: Deer Lake is a private, spring-fed lake offering a serene escape for members and guests of the Deer Lake Club community. The lake provides amenities such as swimming, boating, and fishing in a tranquil setting surrounded by forests. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach or explore hiking trails that wind through the community's scenic landscape.

8. Shohola Lake

Location: Pike County
Description: Shohola Lake is a 1.2-mile-long lake known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, the lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Visitors can paddle along the shoreline to spot wildlife or simply enjoy the quietude of this hidden gem in the Pocono Mountains.

9. Gouldsboro Lake

Location: Gouldsboro State Park
Description: Gouldsboro Lake spans 250 acres within Gouldsboro State Park, offering a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation. The lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and picnicking, with opportunities to catch bass, trout, and panfish. Hikers can explore trails that wind through the park's woodlands, providing views of the lake and its diverse ecosystems.

10. Stillwater Lake

Location: Pocono Summit
Description: Stillwater Lake is a private lake community offering a tranquil retreat amidst the Pocono Mountains. The lake provides amenities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in a serene setting surrounded by forests. Visitors can unwind on the lakeside beach or explore hiking trails that meander through the community's scenic landscape.

11. Arrowhead Lake

Location: Pocono Lake
Description: Arrowhead Lake is a private, gated community centered around two large lakes, offering residents and guests access to a range of recreational activities. The lakes are ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating, while the community's amenities include beaches, tennis courts, and hiking trails. Arrowhead Lake provides a peaceful escape with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and woodlands.

12. Lake Harmony Estates Lake

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Location: Lake Harmony
Description: Lake Harmony Estates Lake is a private lake community known for its clear waters and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and relaxing on the sandy beaches while taking in views of the surrounding mountains. The community offers amenities such as tennis courts, playgrounds, and social events, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

13. Big Boulder Lake

Location: Lake Harmony
Description: Big Boulder Lake is located adjacent to Big Boulder Ski Area, offering a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities year-round. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking along trails that wind through the surrounding woodlands. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and nearby ski slopes, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

14. Crystal Lake

Location: Thornhurst Township
Description: Crystal Lake is a small, pristine lake surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains. The lake is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in clear waters, with opportunities to explore hiking trails that meander through the surrounding forests. Crystal Lake offers a peaceful retreat away from larger crowds, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

15. Lake Henry

Location: Greene Township
Description: Lake Henry is a private lake community offering a serene escape in the Pocono Mountains. The lake provides amenities such as swimming, fishing, and boating in a tranquil setting surrounded by forests and wildlife. Visitors can relax on the lakeside beach or explore hiking trails that wind through the community's scenic landscape, enjoying views of the lake and its natural surroundings.

Conclusion

The Pocono Mountains offer a stunning variety of lakes, each with its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. Whether you're drawn to the expansive waters of Lake Wallenpaupack, the tranquil serenity of Crystal Lake, or the recreational amenities of Arrowhead Lake, there’s something for everyone. From water sports and fishing to hiking and picnicking, these lakes provide unforgettable experiences for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What activities can I enjoy at the lakes in the Pocono Mountains?

You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and picnicking. Many lakes also offer amenities such as sandy beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife observation spots.

2. Are all the lakes in the Pocono Mountains open to the public?

Not all lakes are open to the public. Some, like Lake Naomi and Arrowhead Lake, are private communities that require membership or guest access. However, many others, such as Lake Wallenpaupack and Promised Land Lake, are open for public use.

3. What is the best time to visit the lakes in the Pocono Mountains?

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer is ideal for water activities and hiking, while fall offers stunning foliage views. Winter brings opportunities for nearby skiing, and spring is perfect for fishing and enjoying the blossoming natural scenery.

Top 15 Best Lakes in Pocono Mountains