Nestled in the forested ridges of Bedford County, Shawnee State Park spans nearly 4,000 acres of wooded Appalachian terrain centered around the 451-acre Shawnee Lake. Established in 1951, the park has become one of south-central Pennsylvania’s most versatile outdoor destinations, drawing visitors year-round for everything from lakeside picnics to backcountry hiking.
The lake is the park’s centerpiece. In summer, it fills with kayakers, canoeists, and anglers casting for bass, muskie, and walleye. A sandy beach with a designated swimming area makes it a reliable family spot when temperatures climb. Two boat launches accommodate motorized and non-motorized watercraft, though horsepower limits keep the water calm and paddle-friendly.
On land, roughly 20 miles of trails wind through mixed hardwood forests and along ridgelines with views of the surrounding valleys. The Terrace Mountain Trail connects to adjacent state forest land for longer day hikes. Mountain biking is permitted on designated routes, and winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and ice fishing when the lake freezes over.
Fall is arguably the best time to visit — Bedford County’s foliage peaks in mid-October and the park’s elevation delivers reliable color. Spring wildflower displays along the lake’s edge are worth the trip too.
Whether you’re planning a weekend of paddling and trail running or a quiet afternoon fishing from the shore, Shawnee State Park rewards visitors who want genuine outdoor time without the crowds of Pennsylvania’s more heavily trafficked parks.
Explore Nearby
- Allegheny National Forest — National Forest in Pennsylvania
- National Scenic Byways Program – Pennsylvania — Scenic Byway in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania State Route System — Scenic Byway in Pennsylvania
- Welle Hess Covered Bridge No. S1 — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
- Twining Ford Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
