Beltzville State Park
00 review2950 POHOPOCO DR, LEHIGHTON, Pennsylvania, 18235, United States
Beltzville State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
There is no entry fee for Beltzville State Park as confirmed by multiple reviews. Additional fees for amenities like boat rentals are not specified.
About this campground
Nestled in the scenic southern foothills of the Poconos, Beltzville State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its sparkling 949-acre lake and endless recreational possibilities. Though primarily a day-use destination without camping facilities, this natural playground transforms ordinary weekends into memorable adventures. From the gentle lapping of waves against sandy shores to the excited chatter of families launching boats for a day on the water, Beltzville offers the perfect escape for hiking forest trails, casting fishing lines into pristine waters, or simply spreading a picnic blanket under towering trees.
Beltzville State Park is a day-use recreational area with no camping facilities. Visitors should explore private campgrounds nearby if overnight accommodations are needed.
Historical SignificanceBeltzville State Park stands as a testament to successful conservation partnership, born from the collaborative vision of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pennsylvania Game Commission, and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A charming historic covered bridge serves as a window to the region's past, inviting visitors to step back in time while crossing its weathered wooden planks. This careful preservation of both natural resources and historical landmarks creates a unique destination where Pennsylvania's heritage meets modern recreation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Pennsylvania's changing seasons at Beltzville, where each month paints the landscape in new colors. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the trails and temperatures that invite cozy moments by the fireplace after a day of exploration. As spring arrives, the forest awakens with wildflowers and migrating birds. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for swimming and boating, though afternoon thunderstorms often provide nature's own light show. Throughout the year, frequent rainfall keeps the landscape lush and the creek flowing strong, creating an ever-changing canvas for outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched in the gentle rolling terrain of the southern Pocono foothills, Beltzville State Park offers a landscape that rises and falls in peaceful waves. While specific elevation details remain unrecorded, visitors will discover a terrain that provides both easy lakeside strolls and more challenging hillside hikes, all while enjoying the characteristic beauty of Pennsylvania's transitional mountain region.
Natural Features and SceneryThe heart of Beltzville beats with the rhythm of water - from the babbling Pohopoco Creek, renowned among anglers for its healthy trout population, to the expansive 949-acre lake it feeds. Sandy beaches invite barefoot wandering, while hemlock-lined shores create natural cathedral spaces of quiet contemplation. At special spots like Preacher's Camp, dramatic slate rock formations tell the ancient geological story of the region. Scattered throughout are inviting picnic pavilions and winding scenic trails that reveal new vistas with each turn, while overhead, migrating waterfowl pause in their seasonal journeys to rest on the lake's peaceful waters.
Geological RegionSet within the distinctive southern foothills of the Pocono Mountains, Beltzville State Park showcases the region's unique geological character. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where Pohopoco Creek has carved its path through ancient rock to create today's recreational paradise. The resulting 949-acre Beltzville Lake has become a vital waystation on the Atlantic Flyway, where countless waterfowl species pause during their epic migrations, adding life and movement to this geological masterpiece.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes an ADA-accessible kayak launch area at the Preachers Camp Boat Launch, as noted in authoritative content. Specific details about other accessibility features are not provided.
Sites Size:The park does not have designated campsites, but nearby spaces accommodate a variety of group sizes for day use, including large picnic areas.
Sites PrivacyThe park is described as crowded during peak seasons, which suggests a lack of privacy in most spaces. User reviews consistently describe the park as 'overcrowded' and 'lawless' during summer weekends and holidays.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo camping available.
Best CampsitesNo camping available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Day-use only
- opens at 8:00 AM.
Check-out
Closes at sunset.
Stay Limit
Day-use only.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Day-use only
- restrictions apply for group sizes.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDay-use facilities include picnic pavilions, parking, and areas for boating and hiking.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for day-use activities. Swimming beach operational from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required as the park is day-use only.
Walk-in AvailabilityDay-use only; first-come-first-serve entry. Visitors are advised to arrive early, particularly on summer weekends, as the park reaches capacity by mid-morning.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the park does not offer reservations for camping.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Beltzville State Park provides a wide variety of recreational activities. The lake and surrounding areas are the central focus, offering boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. Seasonal activities like cross-country skiing and ice fishing are available during the winter months. Educational programs and nature walks are also highlighted in the park's event calendar.
Hiking
Hiking trails are a significant feature of the park, with many routes rated as difficult. Notable trails include the Trinity Gorge Trail and Preachers Camp Trail, both accessible from Preachers Camp. The Sawmill Trail, considered difficult, offers scenic views and waterfalls.Fishing
Fishing is popular along Pohopoco Creek and Beltzville Lake. The creek is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing is permitted from boats or along the shore—not from the dock.Swimming
Beltzville Lake offers a sandy swimming beach open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8:00 AM to sunset. No lifeguards are posted, and closures due to high fecal matter levels have been noted.Boating
Boating is a key activity, with two boat launch areas—Pine Run on the north side and Preachers Camp with ADA access on the south side. Activities include kayaking and water skiing, with a speed limit of 45 mph in certain sections.Wildlife viewing
The park is a rest stop for migrating waterfowl. Educational programs occasionally focus on bird spotting.Beach activities
Visitors can enjoy over 500 feet of sandy shoreline suitable for sunbathing and beach games.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts events such as nature walks, night sky programs, and plant identification walks.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and ice fishing are available during winter when conditions permit.Water Sports
Non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are not applicable as the park is day-use only.
- Quiet hours are 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include overcrowding, watercraft accidents, and unsafe swimming practices. Wildlife encounters may occur as the park supports hunting and fishing activities.
Active alertsSome reviews indicate closures of trails and parking areas during holidays and peak seasons due to overcrowding or ecological concerns.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Lehighton, Pennsylvania, which is approximately 5 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day is considered the peak season, especially for the swimming beach.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to clean and properly dispose of waste before vacating. User reviews note that trash is often left behind by visitors, which detracts from the park's natural beauty.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is centered around the 949-acre Beltzville Lake and Pohopoco Creek, with access to beaches and boat launches.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include overcrowding during peak season, inadequate restroom facilities, and littering by visitors. Safety issues with watercraft and lack of ranger enforcement were also highlighted.
HostNo campground hosts; park staff monitor the area.
Campground Map
2950 POHOPOCO DR, LEHIGHTON, Pennsylvania, 18235, United States
Driving directionsBeltzville is five miles east of Lehighton, just off US 209. From the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, take Exit 74 and follow the signs to the park.
Access to Beltzville State Park is straightforward from major roads. It is located five miles east of Lehighton off US 209 and is accessible from the Pennsylvania Turnpike via Exit 74. However, some reviewers noted that certain parking areas and entrances might be closed during busy weekends, which could complicate access.Nearby places
Lehighton (5 miles, approx. 10 minutes), Allentown (approximately 25 miles, approx. 35 minutes), Philadelphia (approx. 60 miles, approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Lehighton (5 miles) is the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Beltzville State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Beltzville State Park are mixed, with a significant number of negative comments focusing on overcrowding, poor adherence to rules, and cleanliness issues. Positive mentions revolve around the beauty of the lake and the variety of activities available.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews praise the natural beauty of the lake and the wide range of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Sanjay Gupta noted, 'This state park has to...
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Common Concerns
Many complaints focus on the park's overcrowded conditions during the summer and holiday weekends, along with excessive noise, litter, and rule violations. Several users, like Farrah Moore and Ann...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak times. Bringing your own seating and shade is recommended. Avoid visiting late in the day or during peak holiday weekends...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest from April to late October, with overcrowding and rule enforcement issues most prominent during this period. Winter offers peaceful recreational opportunities like cross-country...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The park reached capacity at 9:30 AM on the 4th of July holiday.' - Charles H. 2. 'A very relaxing and clean lake... I highly recommend this lake for a wonderful relaxing time.' - Gregory Kimble....
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews are available, as there are no campsites within the park.
Accessibility Features
Limited information is available on accessibility, but an ADA-accessible kayak launch is mentioned at Preachers Camp Boat Launch.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash. One user noted their dog enjoyed playing in the lake.
Last updated August 10, 2025