Summertime in Pennsylvania is all about relaxation - whether we’re staying cool in the A/C or spending time in the water to cool down while soaking up the sun on a beach. Wait - does Pennsylvania have beaches?! While we might not live in a coastal state, we certainly have access to some absolutely breathtaking beaches throughout Pennsylvania that provide the perfect way to spend a summer day. Here are just seven somewhat hidden beaches in Pennsylvania.

1. Laurel Hill State Park – Somerset

Escape to the sandy beach at Laurel Hill State Park, home to the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The 1,200-foot sandy beach offers plenty of space to drop your beach towel or chair. Spend the day relaxing in the sun and swimming in the cool lake. You can bring your own picnic, too, or buy goodies from the concession stand. Find more information on the official website of Laurel Hill State Park.

2. Poe Valley State Park – Coburn

Flanked by Bald Eagle State Forest, Poe Valley State Park promises a day of relaxation. Wade in the cool water of the 25-acre Poe Lake, or just kick back on the sandy beach. The lake’s just five feet deep, providing the perfect spot to cool off. Bring along a picnic, or stop by the snack bar. Learn more on the official website of Bald Eagle State Park.

3. Raccoon Creek State Park – Hookstown

Cool down in the 100-acre Raccoon Lake at Raccoon State Park. The park is home to a cozy 500-foot sand beach that leads right into the cool water. While you can swim all day long during the summer season, take precautions as there are no lifeguards on duty. Change in the bathhouse, and grab a bite to eat at the snack bar. Get all of the details on the official website of Raccoon Creek State Park.

4. Beltzville State Park – Lehighton

At nearly 950 acres, Beltzville Lake features a 525-foot sandy beach, perfect for having a snooze in the sun or reading a good book. The beach also features showers and a snack bar. Visit the official website of Beltzville State Park for more information.

5. Parker Dam State Park – Penfield

Slip into the cool water of Parker Dam, which spans 20 acres and reaches a depth of just five feet. While the state park offers a full menu of things to do, you’ll definitely want to check out the sandy beach on a hot summer day. The park is home to both a seasonal snack shop and camp store. Find more information on the official website of Parker Dam State Park.

6. Cowans Gap State Park – Fort Loudon

A blissful day awaits at Cowan Gap State Park, home to a cozy sandy beach that leads into the 42-acre lake. Grab a spot on the sand or in the grass, where you can set up your beach towel or chair and relax before heading into the water. You can also go on the lake to do a little kayaking or boating. Stop by the official website of Cowans Gap State Park for more information.

7. Bald Eagle State Park – Howard

Bald Eagle State Park provides the perfect backdrop for a summer day under the sun. In addition to its sandy beach and the cool water of the lake, the park boasts a playground, changing rooms, and a concession stand. Head over to the official website of Bald Eagle State Park for more information.

Whichever beach you choose, be sure to bring plenty of sun protection! What do you think are the best hidden beaches in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If you’re up for a quick road trip, set off on this two-hour waterfall road trip in Pennsylvania that will take you to 12 sensational waterfalls.