Top 9 Lakes in York County
Best lakes in York County, Pennsylvania, offer diverse recreational opportunities and natural landscapes. The region features several notable bodies of water, including Lake Marburg, Lakes Williams and Redman, and Pinchot Lake. These areas provide extensive options for water-based activities and land-based exploration. Visitors can find a variety of natural settings, from large state parks to more serene county parks.
Best lakes in York County
- The most popular lakes include Fort McClary, a historical site that served as a coastal…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Vaughan Woods State Park
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The Wells Reserve at Laudholm
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Fort McClary
Highlight • Historical Site
You can visit the fort to see the hexagonal blockhouse and admire the views over the river.
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Cape Porpoise Harbor
Highlight • Settlement
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Balch Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Pond in Orris Falls Conservation Area
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No. 1 Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Great East Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Cape Porpoise, situated east of Dock Square in Kennebunkport, is a serene, working lobster harbor sheltered by a dozen small islands, including Goat Island, home to its lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy the Cape Porpoise Pier, Fishing Shack Portrait, local seafood dining, and galleries and boutiques. The roads are scenic and have low-traffic country roads.
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The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a small, hidden gem that protects important estuarial habitat and the surrounding upland fields and forests, freshwater and estuarine wetlands, and a beach-and-dune system. There are trails through these protected ecosystems, a small visitor center and headquarters (which is on the National Register of Historic Places), and events, workshops, and summer camps for kids. Admission to the Wells Reserve at Laudholm is $6 for adults (children are free!) and goes toward ensuring the protection and stewardship of this area for generations to come.
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Fort McClary on Kittery Point is a historic coastal defence point. This strategic location helped to protect the entrance to the Piscataqua River. You can visit the fort to see the hexagonal blockhouse and admire the views over the river.
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Fort McClary on Kittery Point is a historic coastal defence point. This strategic location helped to protect the entrance to the Piscataqua River. You can visit the fort to see the hexagonal blockhouse and admire the views over the river.
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Vaughan Woods State Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails for both leisurely strolls and more strenuous workouts. The trails are well-marked through a mixed-growth forest with plenty of wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, coyotes, and more. The two primary trails are: the River Run Trail (0.8 miles) follows the Salmon Falls River, and the Bridle Path Trail (0.7 miles) descends steeply to the river, surrounded by old-growth pine and hemlock trees. Other paths run to and from these trails including the Shady Stroll, which has some steeper sections. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, be cautious of slippery conditions, and take precautions against ticks. Vaughan Woods State Park is also a prime location for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
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Orris Falls Conservation Area is filled with miles of trails, overlooks, waterfalls, and a lake. The trails spend the majority of their time under a canopy of trees, but the views offered near Spring Hill are hard to beat.
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No. 1 Pond is caused by the widening and damming of the Mousam River. There is a path on the west side of the reservoir that is completely paved and popular for running.
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Great East Lake is shared between two townships with New Hampshire taking 55% of the surface area. This almost 10,000 acre lake is a great place to picnic on the shore, go boating, fishing, or a plethora of other water sports. The lake is classified as "pristine" in regard to water quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes in York County for fishing?
York County offers excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Marburg in Codorus State Park is known for warm-water species like catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill, with trout in Codorus Creek. Lakes Williams and Redman in William H. Kain County Park are designated as "Big Bass Lakes" and are popular for crappie, sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass, pike, muskie, and stripers. Pinchot Lake also provides good fishing.
Are there family-friendly lakes in York County?
Yes, several lakes in York County are great for families. Lake Marburg in Codorus State Park offers a seasonal swimming pool and splash pad, along with boating and trails. Lakes Williams and Redman in William H. Kain County Park feature a playground near Lake Redman and boat rentals. Pinchot Lake in Gifford Pinchot State Park is also a classic family-friendly destination for swimming and boating. Additionally, smaller spots like Balch Pond and Great East Lake are noted as family-friendly.
What kind of boating activities are available on York County lakes?
Boating is a popular activity on many York County lakes. Lake Marburg has seven ramps for launching sail or motorboats, and rentals for canoes, kayaks, and pontoons are available. Lakes Williams and Redman permit boating, with rentals for rowboats, paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks available on Lake Redman; notably, gas motors are not permitted on these two lakes, ensuring a more serene experience. Pinchot Lake also offers boating opportunities.
Where can I find hiking and walking trails near the lakes in York County?
Many lakes in York County are surrounded by extensive trail systems. Codorus State Park, home to Lake Marburg, offers 19 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian use, and mountain biking. William H. Kain County Park, encompassing Lakes Williams and Redman, provides over 12 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region, including easy trails like the Fisherman's Walk to Wiggly Bridge Trail or the East Point Audubon Sanctuary Trail. Find more details on Hiking in York County or Easy hikes in York County.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching around York County lakes?
Yes, York County lakes are excellent for birdwatching. Lake Marburg is a significant rest stop for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, offering chances to spot ospreys, great blue herons, and even bald eagles. Lakes Williams and Redman feature an ADA-accessible Bird View Deck on Lake Redman, providing prime birdwatching opportunities, especially during migrations.
Can I swim in the lakes of York County?
Lake swimming is generally not permitted in Lake Marburg, though Codorus State Park offers a seasonal swimming pool and splash pad. Pinchot Lake is highlighted as a destination for swimming. For other options, Balch Pond is noted as a great place to swim in the summer.
What unique activities can I experience at Lakes Williams and Redman?
Lakes Williams and Redman in William H. Kain County Park offer unique experiences such as seasonal moonlight boat rides on Lake Redman, providing a distinct perspective of the lake at night. The park also features an ADA-accessible Bird View Deck on Lake Redman, ideal for birdwatching, and over 12 miles of multi-use trails for various outdoor activities.
Are there any historical or natural monuments near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are natural features, the region offers nearby points of interest. The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a natural monument protecting important estuarial habitat with trails and a visitor center. For historical context, Fort McClary is a historic coastal defense point offering views over the Piscataqua River.
What is the best time of year to visit York County lakes?
York County lakes offer year-round activities. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and birdwatching due to pleasant temperatures and migratory patterns. Summer is perfect for swimming (where permitted) and boating. Winter provides opportunities for ice fishing and ice boating on Lake Marburg (with a permit), and trails in areas like Vaughan Woods State Park are suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Are there trails suitable for mountain biking near York County lakes?
Yes, both Codorus State Park (Lake Marburg) and William H. Kain County Park (Lakes Williams and Redman) offer trails suitable for mountain biking. Codorus State Park has 19 miles of trails, and William H. Kain County Park provides over 12 miles of multi-use trails that cater to mountain bikers.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Lake Marburg is a significant stop for migratory waterfowl and shorebirds, and you might spot ospreys, great blue herons, and bald eagles. The extensive parklands around Lakes Williams and Redman also provide habitats for various birds and other local wildlife. Vaughan Woods State Park, though not a lake, is known for rabbits, squirrels, and coyotes.
Are there any less crowded lake options in York County?
While the larger state and county parks can be popular, exploring smaller ponds like Pond in Orris Falls Conservation Area or No. 1 Pond might offer a more serene experience. These smaller bodies of water often provide peaceful trails and natural beauty away from the main crowds.
Most popular routes in York County
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