Cowans Gap State Park

Cowans Gap State Park covers 1,085-acres of beautiful lake valley and offers a wide range of regional activities for visitors to enjoy. Thirteen miles of trails cover Cowans Gap State Park, varying from steep, rocky terrain to flat, paved paths ideal for leisurely strolls. The Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources (DNC) recommends being in good physical shape when attempting these trails. 

Wear sturdy, quality boots and pay attention to any conditions that could make your hikes more precarious. Full details on all trails are available as a PDF form from the Pennsylvania DNR website. Canines are allowed on all hiking trails, provided they are on a 6-foot leash or shorter. As these trails are sometimes quite wild, use your best judgment when bringing along your canine companion. 

If you enjoy staying overnight in this sort of scenery, Cowan's Cap offers 201 campsites in two distinct areas. Both sites have sanitary dump stations and modern washrooms with free showers. All of these campsites at the Cowans Gap State Park are flexible in that they can accommodate anything from a small, 2-person tent all the way up to large motorhomes.

Registered campers also have access to a dedicated boat mooring platform for those just passing through. If you're looking to bring your dog along, these sites generally permit pets as long as they stay leashed up. Make sure to check with Cowans Gap State Park main office before planning your trip if you're unsure. The 500-foot sandy beach that lines Cowans Gap lake offers swimming throughout the warmer months. 

No lifeguards are on duty, so visitors swim at their own risk. Canines are allowed to enjoy the beach, provided they stay out of the water and on their leashes at all times. Two boat launches exist on Cowans Gap Lake, both of which are available for public use. 

Non-powered vessels and boats with electric motors are permitted as long as you come with the proper registration. For more information on how to obtain a launch permit from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, please visit the Pennsylvania DNR website. Canines are not allowed on either boat launch at the Cowans Gap State Park.