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Keystone State Park

Keystone State ParkKeystone State Park was named as an homage to the Keystone Coal and Coke Company and the coal mining heritage that has contributed to the culture of the Derry Area and much of Western Pennsylvania. The Keystone Coal and Coke Company built the Keystone Dam in 1909, creating a 78 acre lake. When the demand for coal and coke declined in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s, many coal companies began looking to sell off their land. In 1945, the Keystone Coal and Coke Company sold this portion of land to the state of Pennsylvania and it was incorporated into the Pennsylvania State Parks system. Today Keystone State Park consists of 1,200 acres with Keystone Lake as the backdrop and a wide variety of recreational opportunities offered throughout the year. Click pictures to enlarge.

Camping
Rental cabinThe park offers several camping opportunities that cater to campers of all experience and comfort levels.

11 modern cabins, each able to accommodate up to 6 people, are available year-round. Located in an idyllic tree covered setting, the cabins contain beds, bathrooms with shower facilities in each, and a kitchen with modern appliances including refrigerator, microwave, and oven. Each cabin also contains an inside seating area with comfortable furniture. Outside, they have a covered porch, grill, fire pit, and picnic table for outdoor congregation. With the amenities of home, the modern cabins offer a unique and relaxing getaway at any time of the year.

3 camping cottages and 2 yurts are available for reservations from mid-April to mid-October. Able to sleep up to 5, these accommodations provide a nature getaway with a rustic feel.

Tent and trailer sites in a variety of settings are also available from mid-April to mid-October. 40 sites on Lakeside campground provide a lake view for those that want to enjoy a stay on the water. 50 sites on Hillside campground are a great forested hideaway that also allow for pet camping.

Keystone Lake
Keystone State Park LakeThe 78-acre Keystone Lake contains a multitude of recreational opportunities.

Fishing is available year-round, following Pa. Fish and Boat Commission regulations. Some of the fish that call the lake home include catfish, panfish, and muskellunge, with the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission stocking the lake with trout several times a year. Bait and supplies are available in the spring and summer seasons at the park’s boat rental concessionaire located at the boat launch.

Boating is available on the lake for electric motors and non-powered boats. Kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and more are great ways to enjoy the lake. All vessels are required to have proper permits as directed by the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day each year, Keystone Beach is open to all visitors. On a hot summer day, Keystone Beach is a welcome respite for swimming and beach recreation.

Hiking
One of Keystone's hiking trailsA great way to explore the park is by hiking Keystone’s 9 miles of hiking trails. Open year round, the trails range from easiest hiking to moderate hiking.

Nature Programs
An environmental education specialist is available on a seasonal basis to provide programming to schools and groups from March through October. Programs can be scheduled by contacting the park’s naturalist at 724-668-2939.

Public nature programs are also available from May through September. A schedule of upcoming public programs can be found by visiting events.dcnr.pa.gov/keystone_state_park.


Additional Recreation Opportunities

Biking (on approved trails and park roads), hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching are some of the activities that can be enjoyed at the park year round. Hunting is available in certain areas of the park during seasons as regulated by the Pa. Game Commission. In the winter, visitors can come out for ice fishing, snow shoeing, and cross country skiing. Derry Township residents are fortunate, having a jewel of a state resource in their own backyards. For further information, contact the park office at 724-668-2939. Camping reservations can be made by calling toll-free 1-888-PA-PARKS.

Ducks and geese share the lake with the humans
A family of geese crosses the lake
Fishermen and boat rental on other side of lake
Ethel Springs Lake
James A. Kell Visitor Center
Rental cabin
From the porch of the cabin
Ethel Springs Lake
Tent and camper sites
Spaces for RV and tent camping overlook the lake
A walking and cycling trail surrounds the lake
Picnic Pavilion
Keystone State Park Lake
Beach area
Keystone State Park Lake
Boat rental

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