We are here at one of our favorite local lakes not far from Pittsburgh for a leisurely Sunday paddle in July.
Raccoon Creek State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s largest and most visited state parks. The park encompasses 7,572 acres and features the beautiful 101-acre Raccoon Lake. The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. Day use areas close at dusk.
The park office is open specific hours. The beach, overnight areas, and other areas are open specific seasons and hours. Contact the park office for facility seasons and hours.
The lake has three launches:
1. The North Boat Ramp near the spillway
2. The beach - for a non-motorized launch
3. Next to the boat rental
PA Fish and Boat Commission - launch permit or boat registration required to launch personal vessel at the lake.
The lake offers a convenient rental site with many rental options. Check out the raccooncreekboatrental.com site for more information.
The website indicates they are cash only and the hours change by the season. Here are the options available as of summer 2023:
RENTAL PRICES 1st hour
Single Kayak $12
Double Kayak $17
Single Hydrobike $12
Double Hydrobike $17
Canoe $17
Standup Paddleboard $17
14' Rowboat $15
14' Rowboat withTrolling Moto $25
EACH ADDITIONAL HOUR IS HALF PRICE
Mini Pontoon Boat $40 per hour
The park offers many exciting adventures. Some of our favorites include:
Hiking the 44 miles of trails in the summer and winter
Wildflower preserve.
Exploring Mineral Springs
Camping
Running the trails