🌤 Weather at Blue Marsh State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29–72 °F | 58–85 °F | 32–77 °F | 20–42 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Blue Marsh Lake, 0 mi away, elevation 350 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Tulpehocken Creek — 6,100-acre recreation area around Blue Marsh Lake — Army Corps of Engineers flood-control reservoir in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country
Blue Marsh State Park encompasses 6,100 acres around Blue Marsh Lake — an Army Corps of Engineers flood-control reservoir on Tulpehocken Creek in Berks County. The lake was created in 1979 after devastating floods hit the region. The park sits in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country — home to the largest Amish community in the world (Lancaster County, just south). The Tulpehocken Creek was named by the Lenape people and later became a major route for German immigrants (the “Pennsylvania Dutch” — actually “Deutsch”) who settled here beginning in 1683.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Berks County, PA (Dutch Country!) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Size | 6,100 acres! |
| Culture | Largest Amish community in WORLD! |
About Blue Marsh
Blue Marsh State Park in Berks County surrounds a 1,147-acre Army Corps of Engineers reservoir northwest of Reading. Built in 1979 for flood control on Tulpehocken Creek, the lake has become one of southeastern Pennsylvania’s most popular multi-use recreation areas. The Tulpehocken Valley was settled by German immigrants in the 1720s — the “Pennsylvania Dutch” whose cultural influence still defines Berks County.
Things to Do
Swimming at the sandy beach, fishing for walleye, bass, and muskie, boating (electric and gas motors permitted), 35 miles of multi-use trails (hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding), cross-country skiing and ice fishing in winter. One of the few inland beaches in southeastern PA.
Insider Tips
Multi-use reservoir: Blue Marsh Lake covers 1,148 acres in Berks County — popular for boating, fishing, and the 30-mile multi-use trail circling the lake. Pro tip: The trail is one of the best mountain biking loops in southeastern Pennsylvania. Army Corps: Blue Marsh Dam was built by the US Army Corps of Engineers (1979) for flood control — the lake is a happy side effect of infrastructure engineering.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Swimming beach and boating. Fall: Lakeside foliage and cycling. Spring: Bass fishing picks up. Winter: Ice fishing and winter hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trail?
The multi-use trail circles Blue Marsh Lake for 30 miles — mostly singletrack through forest and along the lakeshore. It’s rated as one of the best mountain biking destinations in the region. Hikers, runners, and equestrians also use the trail. The varied terrain includes rocky sections, smooth forest floor, and lake-view ridges.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center is a short drive away, and Conrad Weiser Memorial Park is a short drive away.
Wildlife & Nature
Blue Marsh SP — 6,100 acres near Reading — centers on Blue Marsh Lake (1,148 acres). The park’s lake, meadows, and hardwood forest support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and red foxes. Bald eagles nest on the lake. Osprey dive for fish. Over 250 bird species have been recorded.
Nearby Attractions
Reading — 10 miles east — has the Pagoda and Reading Terminal. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary — 30 miles north — has the world’s first refuge for birds of prey. Conrad Weiser Homestead — 15 miles west.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Blue Marsh State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in day-use areas of Pennsylvania state parks and in designated campground sites, but must be physically controlled, attended at all times and leashed, caged or crated.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash required at all times; no universal maximum length — inquire at the park office (electronic fences/shock collars not accepted as control)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited in swimming areas and designated beaches
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Dogs allowed in a limited number of designated cabins, cottages and yurts (pilot program); maximum two dogs per unit; dogs must be house-trained and current on rabies vaccination
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No standard statewide pet fee; fees may be assessed for damage in dog-friendly lodging
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Maximum two non-caged pets per campsite; pets prohibited in buildings; pet food may not be left outside camping units
Are dogs allowed at Blue Marsh State Park?
Pets are allowed in day-use areas of Pennsylvania state parks and in designated campground sites, but must be physically controlled, attended at all times and leashed, caged or crated. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via pa.gov. More: Pennsylvania state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Blue Marsh State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
