Raccoon Creek State Park

Raccoon Creek State Park has a fascinating history. It began as a Recreational Demonstration Area initially operated by the U.S. National Park Service during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The Civilian Conservation Corps built a significant portion of the still-standing structures, which now coexist with more recently built additions. 

History buffs will enjoy these preserved sites, while visitors looking for recreation will find a plethora of opportunities as well. At just over 7000 acres, Raccoon Creek State Park is the second largest park in Pennsylvania state. Fishing is pretty popular in the park's Racoon Lake. 

Species regularly seen here include sunfish, yellow perch, sauger, channel catfish, and bluegill among others. Fishing is available to guests year-round, both on the lake and its surrounding streams. Also available is the 12-acre Upper Lake which has catch and release fishing throughout the year. 

During the winter months guests are reminded that ice thickness is not regularly checked by park staff, so ice fishing is done at their own risks. Make sure to come with an up to date Pennsylvania state fishing license and all prerequisite equipment before dropping your bait into the water. 

If you'd like to have your dog come along for a bit of fishing, make sure you keep them on a leash a maximum of six feet in length. 172 modern tent and camper sites are available in Raccoon Creek State Park, all of which provide guests with modern flush toilets, free showers, and electrical hookups. Picnic tables and firepits are also provided free of charge. 

This wooded camping area also has a children's playground and a dump station in case you've come with your recreational vehicle. Pet owners are in luck, as sites C and F allow dogs to spend the evening outside, as long as their leash is secured. All other campsites are off limits for dogs, as are the indoor bathroom structures.