Prompton State Park

Established in 1962, Prompton State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s more undeveloped public recreational spaces. Situated around 30 minutes from Scranton, the park is known for its spectacular landscape of untouched forests, fields and wetlands. All of which provide a terrific backdrop to enjoy a wide range of recreational activities. One of the most popular of these is hiking, which takes place across 26 miles of trails that surround and veer off from the 290-acre Prompton Lake. Fishing, boating and kayaking are also favored activities here while hunting, disc golfing and picnicking are regularly partaken in too. It is not just in the summer that visitors have all the fun. During the colder months of winter, the park turns into a magical playground for snow related activities like cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. It is also a beautiful place to photograph all throughout the year. Unfortunately there is no camping available onsite at this Pennsylvania state park. However, within easy driving distance there are several different campgrounds you can choose to base yourself on, should you want to take your time to fully explore all Prompton has to offer.

Activities

Those who visit Prompton State Park are able to enjoy a wide selection of outdoor leisure pursuits within its stunning landscape. Presented below is an overview of some of the main activities you can engage in whilst you are there.

Boating at Prompton State Park

Spread across 290-acres, the shimmering waters of Prompton Lake make a terrific spot for boating. You can cruise around in vessels with motors that are up to 10 hp, as well as non-motorized watercraft like canoes, SUP and kayaks. To get into the water, there is a boat launch which you will find off PA 170 on the west shore. Whilst on it, you will be able to enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery from a different perspective.

Fishing at Prompton State Park

Fishing is also a popular activity at the lake with many anglers coming from all over the state to cast a line in the warm water fishery. You will need a valid state fishing license in order to do so. But once you have procured one you will be able to catch the likes of yellow perch, crappie and both largemouth and smallmouth bass, either from the shore or a boat out in the water.

Hiking at Prompton State Park

One of the best ways to explore the park’s stunning natural scenery is through its 26 miles of hiking trails. These trails comprise a mix of smooth forest floor and jagged rocky paths that are mainly rated as more or most difficult hiking. Some of the main trails to tackle at the park are:

• Sugar Shack Trail – Length: 1.7 miles Degree of Difficulty: moderate
• High Ledge Trail – Length: 1 mile. Degree of Difficulty: moderate
• East Shore Trail – Length: 4.5 miles. Degree of Difficulty: moderate

Disc Golfing at Prompton State Park

Within the park there is an 18-hole disc golf course you can play at. It is quite a challenging course to all skill levels, which you will find it in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers section of the park.

Picnicking at Prompton State Park

For those who want to enjoy an al fresco meal there are several picnic tables situated by the boat launch. Additionally, there is also a picnic pavilion above the dam in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Hunting at Prompton State Park

During the established season, hunting is a popular activity at the park, with many people coming here to engage in hunting, trapping, and dog training. You will need a licence in order to be able to engage in this activity, but once you have one you will be able to go after deer and turkey within the designated areas.

Winter Activities at Prompton State Park

The park receives a lot of snow during the winter months, which adds a new dimension to both its beauty and the range of recreational activities you can enjoy then. At this time cross country skiing, winter hiking and snowshoeing becomes a very popular pastime on the trails. While sledding is also a well practiced activity down its hills.

Pets

The park is considered pet friendly, although you will need to abide by strict rules and regulations that are imposed upon their presence. At all times during their visit you will need to keep your dog restrained on a leash. They will also need to be well behaved and not left unattended for more than half an hour. Additionally, there are several areas within the park that your furry friends are not allowed in. To clarify where they are it would be a good idea to contact the park’s main office.

Camping

Unfortunately there is no camping available at the park. However, within a short driving distance there are several different campgrounds you can choose to stay at if you want to take your time to explore its landscape. They include the likes of Clayton Park RV Escape in Lake Ariel, Tohickon Family Campground in Quakertown, Driftstone Campground in Mt Bethel and Deer Wood Campground in Pipersville. All of which offer a range of camping options that include everything from rustic sites with no electricity or water to sites that have full hookups to both, as well as sewage. In addition, these campgrounds also present other accommodation in the form of cabins, which provide visitors with some of the comforts of home. Depending on which campground you stay at, amenities may include flush toilets, hot showers, a dump station, children’s playground or a camp store. Reservations are recommended for most of them.

Park Location

Prompton State Park PA-170, Prompton, PA 18742 Phone: 570.945.3239 Park Website

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Prompton State Park:

Explore More Pennsylvania State Parks

Prompton State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Pennsylvania. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Pennsylvania guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.