Family-Friendly Lake Activities in the Poconos
The Pocono Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in the northeastern United States, and summer is when they come fully alive. From kayaking and paddleboarding to fishing, swimming, and pontoon boat cruises, the lake scene in the Poconos is tailor-made for families looking for a vacation that gets everyone, toddlers to grandparents, out of the house and into the water.
At Pocono Pads, our guests ask us about lake activities constantly. "What can we do on the water?" is probably the second-most common question after "Where should we eat?" This guide covers everything families need to know about spending time on Pocono lakes this summer, with a particular focus on Lake Wallenpaupack, the region's crown jewel, plus several smaller lakes that are worth your time.
What Can Families Do at Lake Wallenpaupack?
Pocono Pads properties put you within minutes of the Poconos' best summer experiences — lakefront access, hiking trailheads, and water park shuttles are all nearby depending on which property you choose. Browse our summer availability at poconopads.com.
Lake Wallenpaupack is the largest lake in the Poconos and one of the most popular recreation destinations in northeastern Pennsylvania. Located near Hawley in Wayne County, the lake stretches 13 miles long and covers 5,700 acres, with 52 miles of shoreline. It is about 45 minutes northeast of the Camelback area and roughly two hours from New York City.
The short answer to what families can do here: almost everything that involves water.
Boating and Pontoon Rentals
Multiple marinas operate on Lake Wallenpaupack, offering pontoon boats, speedboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for hourly or daily rental. Wallenpaupack Boat Tours and Rentals, located at Palmyra Township, rents pontoon boats that seat up to 12 people, ideal for a family afternoon of cruising, swimming off the boat, and exploring the lake's many coves. Half-day pontoon rentals typically run between $250 and $400 depending on the boat size and the day of the week.
For families who just want to get out on the water without piloting their own vessel, the Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour runs narrated cruises that cover the lake's history, ecology, and shoreline landmarks. The tour lasts about an hour and is a relaxed option for families with younger children who might not sit still for a full day on a rental boat.
Jet Skiing and Tubing
Jet ski rentals are available at several marinas on the lake. Riders must be at least 16 years old with a boating safety education certificate (Pennsylvania requirement), but younger teens can ride as passengers with an adult. Expect to pay around $85 to $120 per hour for a jet ski rental. Tubing behind a speedboat is another popular option, some rental operators offer tube-and-boat packages.
Fishing
Lake Wallenpaupack is a productive fishery with walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, striped bass, and panfish. The lake is stocked regularly by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. For families, the eastern shore near Ledgedale Recreation Area has accessible fishing spots where kids can cast from the bank. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older ($22.97 resident, $52.97 non-resident, available online).
If your family is serious about fishing, consider hiring a local guide. Several charter operations run trips on the lake, providing all tackle and equipment. A half-day guided trip typically costs between $250 and $350 for up to four anglers.
Swimming and Beach Access
Lake Wallenpaupack does not have a traditional public beach in the way that some other lakes do, but several access points allow swimming. Palmyra Township Park, on the southern end of the lake, has a swimming area and playground. Ironwood Point Recreation Area, managed by PPL (the utility that owns the lake), has picnic areas and lake access. Some private campgrounds and resorts along the lake also offer day-use beach access for a fee.
For a more structured swimming experience with younger kids, consider combining a lake day with a visit to nearby Promised Land State Park, which has a designated swimming beach with lifeguards during summer months.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on Wallenpaupack are excellent, particularly in the mornings before the motorboats stir up the water. Several outfitters rent kayaks and SUP boards by the hour. The coves on the eastern side of the lake are calm and sheltered, good for beginners and families with children in tandem kayaks. You will often see great blue herons, turtles, and the occasional bald eagle along the quieter stretches of shoreline.
What Other Lakes in the Poconos Are Good for Families?
Lake Wallenpaupack gets the most attention, but the Poconos have dozens of other lakes worth exploring, especially if you prefer a quieter setting.
Promised Land State Park
Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake sit within the 3,000-acre state park near Canadensis, about 30 minutes from Camelback. The park has a public beach with lifeguards (open Memorial Day through Labor Day), boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, no motorized boats allowed on Promised Land Lake), hiking trails, and excellent picnic facilities. This is our top recommendation for families with young children who want a low-key, affordable lake day. Entry to the park is free; boat rentals are modest.
The absence of motorboats makes Promised Land Lake feel peaceful in a way that the bigger lakes do not. You can paddle across the entire lake in 20 minutes and explore marshy coves where kids can spot frogs, dragonflies, and painted turtles.
Lake Harmony
Located in the western Poconos near Split Rock Resort and Jack Frost/Big Boulder ski areas, Lake Harmony is a small but scenic lake with public access at the Lake Harmony Beach area. Swimming, kayaking, and fishing are popular here. The lake is less commercialized than Wallenpaupack, which is part of its charm. It is about 30 minutes west of Camelback.
Tobyhanna State Park
Tobyhanna Lake covers 170 acres within the state park and has a swimming beach, boat launch, and rental facility (canoes, kayaks, paddleboats). The beach is patrolled by lifeguards in summer, and the park has playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and a network of hiking trails. Only electric-powered boats are permitted, keeping the lake quiet and family-friendly. The park is about 20 minutes from Camelback.
Beltzville State Park
A bit farther afield (about 40 minutes southwest of the central Poconos near Lehighton), Beltzville State Park has a 949-acre lake with a large public beach, boat launch, and miles of shoreline hiking. The beach area is one of the biggest in the region and gets busy on summer weekends, but there is plenty of space. Fishing for walleye, bass, and trout is productive here.
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Near Jim Thorpe, this Carbon County park has a 345-acre lake with a swimming beach, boat rentals, and fishing access. It is a popular day-trip destination for families staying in the western Poconos and combines well with a visit to downtown Jim Thorpe for lunch and shopping.
How Much Does a Day on the Lake Cost?
A lake day in the Poconos can be as affordable or as splurge-worthy as you want. Here is a rough budget breakdown for a family of four:
Budget option (state park): Free park entry, $10 to $15 per hour for kayak or canoe rental, pack your own lunch. Total: under $50.
For a hassle-free summer escape, Pocono Pads Management handles all the details — so you show up to a clean, stocked, and ready home every time. Our guest support team is available throughout your stay if you need anything at all.
Mid-range option (Wallenpaupack kayak day): $30 to $50 per hour for kayak or SUP rentals, lunch at a lakeside restaurant like Ehrhardt's Waterfront Resort or The Dock on Wallenpaupack. Total: $100 to $150.
Splurge option (pontoon rental): $250 to $400 for a half-day pontoon rental, lunch on the water, ice cream at a lakeside shop. Total: $300 to $500.
The best part about staying at a vacation rental instead of a hotel is the kitchen. You can pack coolers with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks for the lake, saving a small fortune compared to buying meals out every day.
What Should Families Bring to the Lake?
A successful lake day with kids requires some planning. Here is our essential packing list:
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, reapply every two hours) and sun-protective clothing. The reflective glare off the water intensifies UV exposure significantly.
Life jackets for children, most rental operators provide them, but bringing your own ensures a proper fit. Pennsylvania law requires children under 12 to wear a life jacket on any boat.
Water shoes or sport sandals. Lake bottoms can be rocky or muddy, and water shoes make getting in and out much more comfortable for everyone.
Dry bags or waterproof cases for phones and car keys. Nothing ruins a lake day like a drowned phone.
Snacks, water, and a cooler. Kids burn through energy fast on the water, and dehydration sneaks up quickly in the summer heat.
Bug spray. The lake shores attract mosquitoes, particularly in the evenings. Apply before sunset if you are staying for a campfire or picnic dinner.
A change of clothes for the ride home. Wet car seats are nobody's idea of a good time.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Pocono Lakes in Summer?
The lake season in the Poconos runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Water temperatures are warmest in July and August, typically reaching the mid-70s in the shallower lakes. June is excellent for lake activities, the water is warming up, the summer crowds have not fully descended, and rates on vacation rentals are slightly lower than peak July and August.
Weekdays are always less crowded than weekends, especially at the more popular spots like Wallenpaupack and Beltzville. If your schedule allows, a Tuesday-through-Thursday lake trip will give you a noticeably quieter experience.
Early mornings are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding (calm water, fewer boats, wildlife is active). Midday is prime swimming time. Late afternoons bring the best fishing, as bass and walleye become more active in the cooler water.
Where to Stay for a Lake-Focused Pocono Trip
A cabin or vacation home is the ideal base for a lake-focused family trip. You get the space to store all your gear (coolers, kayaks, fishing rods, beach toys), the kitchen to prep meals, and the outdoor areas to dry everything out at the end of the day. Hotels cannot compete with that kind of functionality for a lake vacation.
Our Lakefront House sleeps 12 and puts you close to the water with a sauna and jacuzzi for après-lake relaxation. Spring Getaway sleeps 16 and has a fire pit that is perfect for evening s'mores after a long day on the water. Cozy 5BR accommodates 12 guests and comes with a pool and hot tub, so you have water activities at home and on the lake.
People Also Ask
Q: Are Pocono vacation rentals available for large groups or family reunions?
A: Yes — Pocono Pads manages several larger properties that comfortably accommodate groups of 10, 14, or even more. These homes typically feature multiple bedrooms, open-concept living areas, outdoor entertaining spaces, and amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, and large dining tables. If you're planning a reunion or group trip, reach out directly to our team and we'll match you with the right property for your headcount and vibe.
Browse our full lineup of Pocono vacation rentals at poconopads.com. Our team can help you find the right property for your family's lake adventure. Summer availability goes fast, so plan ahead, especially for July and August weekends.
