Northern Pennsylvania 

Bendigo State Park

The East Branch of the Clarion River is scenic and appropriate for beginning boaters under normal conditions. A canoe launch is three miles upstream along Kilgus Road. Best water conditions are generally in the spring. Explore Bendigo State Park for more information.

 

Clear Creek State Park

The Class 1 Clarion River provides excellent canoeing and kayaking, especially during the spring and fall. The average downward flow is four miles per hour. Two popular paddling trips are four and 10 miles in length. Rental canoes are available from businesses outside of the park. There are public boat launches at Cook Forest and Clear Creek state parks. Explore Clear Creek State Park for more information.

 

Cook Forest State Park

The Class 1 Clarion River provides excellent canoeing and kayaking, especially during the spring and fall. The average downward flow is four miles per hour. Two popular paddling trips are four and 10 miles in length. Rental canoes are available from businesses out-side of the park. There are public boat launches at both Cook Forest and Clear Creek state parks. Explore Cook Forest State Park for more information, including a list of concessionaires.

 

Southern Pennsylvania

Swatara State Park

Swatara Creek is a popular destination for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, especially in the spring. Designated launches in the northern and southern ends of the park provide access to the creek for put-in and take-out of boats. Explore Swatara State Park for more information.

 

Warriors Path State Park

A boat ramp for canoes, rafts, and small boats is available as a take out or launch site for floating the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River. Boating or rafting can be enjoyed during the spring or late fall. The water level of the river is usually too shallow for summer boating. Explore Warriors Path State Park for more information.

 

Eastern Pennsylvania 

Delaware Canal State Park

Canoeing is popular in the canal, on the Delaware River, and at the Giving Pond Recreation Area. Canoeists can launch from public access areas in Pa. and NJ to enjoy the water trail which includes scenic views of River Islands and Nockamixon Cliffs natural areas. Water trail users will enjoy viewing wildlife along a major migratory route for raptors, waterfowl, and songbirds. Explore Delaware Canal State Park for more information.

 

Tyler State Park

Neshaminy Creek offers calm, easy boating upstream from the canoe rental. The canoe rental operates daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather permitting. Explore Tyler State Park for more information.

 

Western Pennsylvania

Ohiopyle State Park

The Middle Yough begins at the Ramcat Put-in near Confluence, and ends near the town of Ohiopyle. This section contains class I and II rapids and is ideal for beginning kayakers or experienced canoers. Only closed-deck canoes can be used on the river. Explore Ohiopyle State Park for more information.

 

Oil Creek State Park

Oil Creek offers a scenic float and is classed as a beginner’s creek under normal conditions. Water levels can change rapidly and canoeists should call the park office for current water conditions. Generally, the canoeing season is from March to June. Explore Oil Creek State Park for more information.