Elk State Park
Overview
The 3,192-acre Elk State Park is in the rugged mountains of northern Pennsylvania. The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake is large enough for unlimited horsepower boating and is great for water-skiing. In 1948, the United States Corps of Engineers started construction of the flood control dam and created East Branch Lake. The dam inundated the two settlements in the valley. Development of Elk State Park was completed in 1963 and in 1970 the Bureau of Forestry turned 2,022 acres over to State Parks and increased its size to a total of 3,192 acres. Remnants of both Instanter and Straights can be seen during low pool levels. The lake and nearby streams are stocked with warm-water and cold-water fish. The main draw of Elk State Park is the East Branch Lake which allows visitors all kinds of water recreation. Fishing is one of the most popular activities at this state park. With seven different kinds of fish and the adjoining five creeks, it provides a fisherman's dream.
Activities
Boating
The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake has one boat launch on Instanter Drive. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also provides a boat launch by the dam.
Camping
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a campground with facilities by the dam.
Fishing
The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake is a cold-water fishery. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks muskellunge, walleye, smallmouth bass, brook, rainbow, brown, and lake trout in the lake. Five Mile, Seven Mile, Straight, Middle Fork and Crooked creeks are all stocked streams. Many smaller streams abound in native brook trout.
Hunting
About 3,151 acres are open to hunting, trapping and the training of dogs during established seasons. Common game species are black bear, deer and turkey. Hunting is also permitted on the adjacent Elk State Forest and State Game Land 25.
Picnicking
Picnic tables are available at the Instanter Drive Boat Launch. The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers has a picnic area and playground by the dam.
RVing
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a campground with facilities by the dam.
Water Sports
Swimming is not permitted in the lake. A swimming pool is available at Bendigo State Park, about 13 miles away on PA 1004.
Winter Sports
The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake is a cold-water fishery. Common species are muskellunge, walleye, smallmouth bass, and brook, rainbow, brown and lake trout.
Directions
Driving
Elk State Park is in Elk County, Pennsylvania. Elk State Park is about eight miles east of Wilcox on SR 1006 and about nine miles south of Clermont on SR 1001.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(814) 965-2646Links
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