Warm sunny days provide an idyllic backdrop for a day at the beach. While Pennsylvania might not claim an ocean shoreline, it certainly does boast its fair share of beautiful sandy beaches that hug glistening lakes. This pristine Pennsylvania lake, for example, has a breathtaking beach that rivals the coast.

While you may not be gazing out at an endless ocean skyline, you’ll still have a breathtakingly beautiful view of shimmering water and lush green trees at Cowans Gap State Park.

Trip Advisor/Lynnee

The sandy beach, which stretches 500 feet, leads into the 42-acre lake, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.

Facebook/Friends of Cowans Gap State Park

You might want to just sit back on your beach towel or beach chair and admire the view. If you wade into the water, you’ll be doing so at your own risk as there are no lifeguards on duty.

Trip Advisor/Tony G.

Once you’ve cooled off, consider spending some time on the water. Cowans Gap allows electric motor boats only, or you can rent a kayak, rowboat, or paddleboat at the park.

Flickr/Chesapeake Bay Program

While you may want to chill on the beach the whole day, you may also want to explore the rest of the park. Cowans Gap State Park features 13 miles of hiking trails that are rated very easy to difficult.

Flickr/Chesapeake Bay Program

If one day simply isn’t enough time at the park, spend the night or a few nights. Pitch a tent, or rent one of the 10 rustic cabins.

Trip Advisor/Michael O.

Pack all of your gear for a beach day at Cowans Gap State Park. The beach is open annually from May through the end of September. Daily hours run from 8 a.m. until sunset.

Trip Advisor/Lynnee

Click here for the official website of Cowans Gap State Park. Or, go here for Facebook.

Trip Advisor/AlexK72

Have you ever been to this Pennsylvania lake? Or do you have a favorite lake in PA? Let us know in the comments! If you’ve not taken a swim in Tobyhanna Lake yet, you might want to add it to your summer to-do list.

Trip Advisor/Lynnee

Facebook/Friends of Cowans Gap State Park

Trip Advisor/Tony G.

Flickr/Chesapeake Bay Program

Trip Advisor/Michael O.

Trip Advisor/AlexK72

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Address: Cowans Gap State Park, 6235 Aughwick Rd, Fort Loudon, PA 17224, USA