Lake Wallenpaupack, Pennsylvania - Image 1
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Lake Wallenpaupack

4.8
·503 reviews·, United States

A vast freshwater lake in the Pocono Mountains, offering boating, fishing, and scenic beauty for a perfect outdoor escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calm waters

CrowdLow
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Lake Wallenpaupack, Pennsylvania - Image 1

Lake Wallenpaupack

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calm waters

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast freshwater lake in the Pocono Mountains, offering boating, fishing, and scenic beauty for a perfect outdoor escape.

4.8
(503 reviews)

"The lake is absolutely beautiful and offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Rentals in Advance

Secure your boat, kayak, or paddleboard early, especially for summer weekends.

🎣 Fish Early Morning

For best fishing results, head out around 6 AM when the lake is calm.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boating Adventures

Boating Adventures

Throughout the lake

Cruise the expansive waters, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the scenic Pocono Mountain backdrop. Rent pontoons, speedboats, or jet skis for a thrilling day.

Fishing Opportunities

Fishing Opportunities

Coves and deeper areas

Cast a line for bass, trout, and walleye. Early mornings are recommended for the best chances of a bite in calmer waters.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Calm coves and shoreline

Gently explore the lakefront, discover quiet spots, and get a unique perspective of the surrounding homes and nature.

Party Cove

Party Cove

Designated area on the lake

Experience the lively atmosphere where boats gather for music, socializing, and a vibrant lake party scene.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Peak Times

Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular spot, especially during summer weekends. For a more serene experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.

Know the Rules & Rentals

While alcohol and pets are not allowed on the lake itself,TikTok there are plenty of rental options for boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Check rental availability and book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred watercraft.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calm waters
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Peak activity, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Fall weekends
Why
Beautiful foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pov- You found the cleanest lake in Pennsylvania! And it's in the Pocono Mountains, just 2 hours from NJ/NYC and over an hour from Philly. ✅Admission fee-$10 per adult & $7 per child for non-County. $3 for county residents residents ✅Very family-friendly ✅No alcohol and no pets allowed 📍 Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania @VISIT PA #pagetaway #visitpa #maunchchunklake #jimthorpe...
@travelwithsudipa
84.6K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Book Rentals in Advance

Secure your boat, kayak, or paddleboard early, especially for summer weekends. Instagram

🎣 Fish Early Morning

For best fishing results, head out around 6 AM when the lake is calm. Reddit

loving this trend for all sports ♥️🙌🏻 #softball #capcut #photography #wallenpaupackareahighschool #nikon #fyp
@photographer_runs_disney
41.6K likes • 632.7K views
Enjoy an action-packed experience on Lake Wallenpaupack with @poconoboatrentals this summer! Here are 5 fun activities offered by the boat rental service at @lighthouseharbormarina in Greentown. ☀️ #DiscoverNEPA 1️⃣ Jet Boat Cars 2️⃣ Tiki Boat Charters 3️⃣ Tubing 4️⃣ Pontoon Boats 5️⃣ Kayaks & Paddleboards
discovernepa
625 likes • 30K views

🚫 No Alcohol or Pets

Remember the lake rules: no alcoholic beverages or pets allowed on the water. TikTok

🚗 Parking at Visitor Center

Utilize parking at the visitor center or nearby trailheads for easy access. Reddit

Best Pennsylvania fall foliage spots👇🏼🍂 📍Dingmans falls 📍Raymondskill falls 📍Tobyhanna state park 📍Lake Wallenpaupack 📍Valley Forge 📍Mount Minsi 📍Jim Thorpe Fall in PA, Pennsylvania fall spots, Chasing fall foliage in Pennsylvania, Fall foliage in Philly, Pennsylvania in fall, Autumn in Pennsylvania, Weekend getaway, Fall getaway, Autumn getaway, Fall adventure #fall #autumn #visitpa #fallinpen...
kamana__p
0 likes • 6.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Rentals in Advance

Secure your boat, kayak, or paddleboard early, especially for summer weekends. Instagram

🎣 Fish Early Morning

For best fishing results, head out around 6 AM when the lake is calm. Reddit

🚫 No Alcohol or Pets

Remember the lake rules: no alcoholic beverages or pets allowed on the water. TikTok

🚗 Parking at Visitor Center

Utilize parking at the visitor center or nearby trailheads for easy access. Reddit

🍔 Try Local Eateries

Explore nearby towns for great food, from Polish delis to breweries and waterfront dining. TikTokInstagram+1

☀️ Enjoy the Scenery

Take time to appreciate the beautiful lake views and surrounding Pocono Mountains. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(503 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Lake Wallenpaupack for its stunning natural beauty, with sparkling waters and scenic mountain views creating a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. The abundance of boating options and water sports is a major draw, offering endless fun for families and groups. While some find fishing challenging, the overall experience is highly recommended for a refreshing getaway.

""Lake Wallenpaupack is absolutely beautiful! I visited at noon under the bright sun, and the sparkling water with scenic surroundings made it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful and refreshing getaway.""

Harpreet Kaur

"We visited one tiny part of this mighty lake, close to the Poconos mountains visitor center. Parking is available at the trail head or at the visitor center. The fall colors are beautiful around the lake and even though it was a rainy day, we really enjoyed our visit to the lake."

Neha Vl

"I am a local Lake Wallenpaupack resident and I love calling this community HOME! The lake is absolutely beautiful and offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're into boating, fishing, rafting, swimming or jet skiing, this place has something for you.

Boating on the lake was an absolute blast and the scenery is breathtaking. There are plenty of rental options available, including pontoons, speedboats, and kayaks, so you can choose the perfect vessel for your adventure. The lake is large enough to explore for hours, with plenty of coves and inlets to discover.

The lake is home to a wide variety of fish, including bass, trout, and walleye so if you are an expert or a beginner – there is great fishing!

Our family loves to kayak and stand up paddle board. We find a cove and spend some time exploring – great way to see the lakefront homes from the water.

Overall, I highly recommend Lake Wallenpaupack to anyone looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure. The lake is stunning, the activities are endless, and the memories will last a lifetime."

Bridget Gelderman

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Abundant boating options
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

No alcohol/pets allowed
Occasional slow fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lake Wallenpaupack is located in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania. It's approximately 2 hours from NYC/NJ and over an hour from Philadelphia.TikTok Driving is the most common way to access the lake, with various marinas and public access points available. Parking is often available at visitor centers or designated trailheads.Reddit

Public transportation options directly to Lake Wallenpaupack are limited. It is primarily a destination best reached by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are coming from a nearby town.

The closest major airports are Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. From these airports, you would typically rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service.

Access points are numerous, with marinas like Lighthouse Harbor Marina and Driftwood Cove Marina being popular. For general access, using GPS for 'Lake Wallenpaupack Visitor Center' or specific marina names will guide you.

Once at the lake, navigation is best done by boat. For land-based exploration, a car is essential to reach different viewpoints and towns surrounding the lake. Maps of the lake and surrounding areas are helpful.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no general admission fee to access Lake Wallenpaupack itself. However, specific marinas or parks around the lake may have parking fees or charges for boat launches. Some sources mention a $10 per adult/$7 per child fee for non-county residents at a nearby park, but this is not for the lake itself.TikTok

Lake Wallenpaupack is generally accessible year-round for boating and fishing. However, specific marina operating hours, rental facilities, and visitor centers will vary by season and are best checked directly with the establishment.

It is highly recommended to book boat rentals in advance, especially during peak season (summer weekends) and holidays. This ensures availability of your preferred vessel, such as pontoons, jet skis, or kayaks.Instagram

Yes, alcohol and pets are not permitted on Lake Wallenpaupack.TikTok It's also advisable to bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and water, though some lakeside facilities offer food and drinks.

Yes, there are public boat launch facilities available around Lake Wallenpaupack. Some may have associated fees. Ensure your boat is properly registered and equipped with safety gear.

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Sports

Lake Wallenpaupack is known to be home to a variety of fish, including bass, trout, and walleye.Reddit Anglers of all skill levels can find opportunities for a good catch.

Early mornings, around 6:00 AM, are often recommended for fishing when the lake is calmest.Reddit Targeting deeper coves can also yield better results.Reddit

Popular water sports include boating (pontoons, speedboats, jet skis), kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, and swimming.Instagram+1 The lake's size and numerous coves make it ideal for these activities.

Yes, jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards are available for rent from various marinas and rental services around the lake.Instagram+1

While swimming is generally permitted, designated swimming areas are not as common as boating access. Many visitors enjoy swimming off their rented boats or from accessible shorelines.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, several restaurants and eateries are located on or near Lake Wallenpaupack. Options range from casual waterfront dining at marinas like Driftwood Cove Marina Instagram to breweries in nearby towns like Wallenpaupack Brewing Co..Instagram

You can find a variety of food options, including American cuisine, seafood, pizza, ice cream, and even specialty items like Polish snacks from delis in nearby towns.TikTokInstagram Breweries also offer food pairings.Instagram

Yes, places like Spanky's in Greentown offer breakfast sandwiches, perfect for fueling up before a day on the water.Instagram Local coffee shops are also available.Instagram

You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks for picnics or to enjoy on your boat. However, remember that alcohol is prohibited on the lake itself.TikTok

The Grillfather at Driftwood Cove Marina is praised for its food, especially onion rings.Instagram Wallenpaupack Brewing Co. and Runaway Train Brewery are popular for drinks and bites.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The lake offers stunning scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset.TikTok The surrounding Pocono Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop, and the fall foliage in autumn is particularly picturesque.Instagram

Many viewpoints are accessible from the shoreline, marinas, and boat rentals. The visitor center area often provides good vantage points. Capturing the lake from the water itself offers unique perspectives of the coves and waterfront homes.

Early morning and late afternoon/early evening offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.TikTok

Absolutely! Taking photos from a boat provides a dynamic perspective of the lake, allowing you to capture the vastness of the water, the shoreline, and other boats. Be sure to secure your equipment.

Look for opportunities to photograph the diverse boat life, the charming waterfront homes, local wildlife, and the vibrant colors during different seasons, especially autumn foliage.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Wallenpaupack is a fantastic destination for families. The wide range of water activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to boat rentals, offers fun for all ages.Instagram While alcohol and pets are not allowed on the lake, the focus remains on family-friendly enjoyment. Consider renting a pontoon boat for a relaxed outing where everyone can enjoy the scenery and water safely.

Exploring the coves by kayak or paddleboard can be an adventure for kids, allowing them to discover the lake's nooks and crannies. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic, of course!) and plan for a full day of aquatic fun. Nearby towns also offer family-friendly dining options, like pizza and ice cream parlors.Reddit

👯 Bachelorette Parties

The Poconos, and specifically Lake Wallenpaupack, are becoming a popular destination for bachelorette parties.TikTok+1 The combination of lake activities, spa options (like Woodloch), and nearby breweries and restaurants makes it an ideal spot for a girls' trip.TikTokInstagram

Organize a group boat rental for a day on the water, perhaps including tubing for some added excitement. In the evenings, explore the local breweries or enjoy dinner with a view. The lake's scenic beauty provides a picturesque backdrop for celebrating the bride-to-be.

🎣 Anglers

Lake Wallenpaupack offers a diverse fishing experience with opportunities to catch bass, trout, and walleye.Reddit While some anglers have noted challenging days, early morning fishing, particularly in deeper coves, is often recommended for better success.Reddit

Bring your fishing gear and explore different spots around the lake. Consider renting a smaller boat or kayak to access quieter fishing areas away from the main boating channels. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you cast your line.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Boating and Water Activities

Lake Wallenpaupack is a boater's paradise, boasting 52 miles of shoreline and a vast expanse perfect for all sorts of water activities. From leisurely pontoon cruises to exhilarating jet ski rides, there's a vessel for every preference.Instagram+1 Rental services are readily available at various marinas, offering everything from kayaks and paddleboards for a more intimate exploration of coves to larger boats for group outings.

For those seeking a lively atmosphere, 'Party Cove' is a well-known spot where boats congregate, creating a vibrant social scene with music and camaraderie.TikTok+1 It's a place to experience the energetic side of lake life. Remember that while the lake is a hub for fun, alcohol and pets are not permitted on the water.TikTok

Beyond motorized boating, kayaking and paddleboarding offer a peaceful way to connect with nature and discover hidden coves along the lakefront. These activities are ideal for a more relaxed pace, allowing you to appreciate the scenic beauty at your own speed. Many visitors enjoy paddling to quiet spots to relax and take in the views.Reddit

Fishing at Lake Wallenpaupack

While the lake's immense size might make some question its fish population, Lake Wallenpaupack is indeed a viable fishing destination, home to species like bass, trout, and walleye.Reddit Anglers looking to cast a line can find success, though some suggest early mornings are optimal for calmer waters and better bites.Reddit

Tips for successful fishing often include heading out around 6:00 AM and focusing on deeper coves, where fish may congregate.Reddit Using a variety of lures such as large rubber worms, spinners, and crankbaits can increase your chances. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, the lake offers opportunities to enjoy the sport amidst beautiful surroundings.

It's worth noting that some visitors have reported slow fishing days, which is not uncommon in large bodies of water. Patience and trying different techniques and locations are key to a rewarding fishing experience at Lake Wallenpaupack.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

The charm of Lake Wallenpaupack extends beyond its waters, with quaint towns and natural beauty surrounding it. Towns like Hawley offer antique shops, dining, and access to other attractions like waterfalls and rail tours.Instagram For a taste of local flavor, consider visiting a Polish deli in Newfoundland for unique snacks,TikTokInstagram or explore craft breweries in nearby Honesdale or Lake Wallenpaupack itself.Instagram

During the fall, the region transforms into a spectacular display of autumn foliage, making it a prime destination for leaf-peeping enthusiasts.Instagram The Pocono Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for this seasonal spectacle. Whether you're looking for a bite to eat, a unique souvenir, or simply a scenic drive, the areas around Lake Wallenpaupack offer plenty to discover.

For those interested in local culture and events, keep an eye out for festivals like the Wally Lake Fest, which brings music and a lively atmosphere to the lake.Instagram These surrounding attractions and events add another layer of enjoyment to a visit to Lake Wallenpaupack.