What is the largest man-made lake in Pennsylvania?

Raystown Lake is the largest artificial lake in Pennsylvania. The lake itself is 8,000 acres, but the area around the lake is 29,000 acres. Therefore there is many Activities around the lake. There are many picnic areas, boat ramps, beaches, hiking trails and hunting opportunities.

This lake is not only the largest artificial lake, but also the largest lake ever. This lake is entirely in Pennsylvania.

Originally, this lake was built by the Simpson family as part of a larger hydroelectric project. However, it was completed by the Army Corps of Engineers in 1973 as we know it today. The lake was created primarily to control flooding, but it also provides electricity and allows for recreational activities.

This lake is 200 feet deep at its deepest point. The deepest part is also closest to the dam.

There are many activities at this dam. You can fish, mountain bike, swim and even dive. The lake is surrounded by a wide strip of land dedicated to recreation. There are several campsites as well as many hiking trails and restaurants. Community events like fireworks are also often held at the lake.

History of Raystown Lake

This lake was created using three different dams and has slowly grown in size as new dams have been added. The idea of ​​creating the lake was put forward by Warren Brown who found the site to be a great spot for bass fishing. He considered building a hydroelectric power station to improve local fisheries.

Eventually, the proper charters were granted and construction of the dam began. Construction began in 1906. However, the dam brought many changes to the area. Italian immigrants moved to the area to help build the dam. The economic factor was also improved by the dam.

However, in the 1970s the dam was bought and passed through several hands. To help with more flood control, recreation and tourism, there was a proposal for a new dam. This second dam was built primarily for flood control, especially when there was an impending hurricane threat. Because of this, the dam was approved by the US Army Corp of Engineers.

The creation of this second dam involved the covering of several cottages and community landmarks. While the dam appears to be well accepted, there has been some controversy. During this time, the Vietnam War was underway. As a result, many thought the army’s money was better spent elsewhere.

The second dam was completed in 1972. Shortly thereafter, Tropical Storm Agnes rolled through and filled the dam. The dam prevented damage to the area and limited flooding.

Archaeological Areas

The Sheep Rock Shelter was a historically significant area that provided shelter for the people who lived there. When the second dam was announced, several universities banded together and decided to excavate the area and preserve the remains. Several artifacts were discovered that might otherwise have been submerged.

This work uncovered artifacts from almost 12,000 years ago. There is a documentary called Discovery at Sheep Rock that details what was found.

Today there are many ruins and other archaeological areas that can still be explored today. You can see several half-submerged buildings. Many of these are not normally visible. However, some of them are when the water level gets low. This usually also happens in the winter months when the vegetation has died back.

There are many homesteads around and in the lake. There are many homesteads that were abandoned when the lake was built. However, it’s helpful to have some sort of guide if you’re looking for one. Otherwise it can be difficult to find them.

Modern Reviews

Today the lake receives mixed reviews. Many people love that the area around the lake is protected so houses cannot be built directly on the lake. Therefore, the area is exclusively dedicated to camping and other recreational activities.

However, the lake is very deep. Therefore, anchoring is a challenge. For this reason, the shallow areas quickly fill up. However, the lake is quite large and there are many things to do. Hence, it is a great place for those who want to participate in outside activities.

There are some complaints of poor law enforcement in the area. For example, there were several noise complaints. This includes both the lake and the campsites around the lake.

Other than that, this lake has pretty good reviews on average.