Destination Wild

Overview

Half of Forest County, where Tionesta Lake is located, is preserved as public lands. The region is known as one of Pennsylvania's best big game regions and is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife.

Campers come to the Tionesta Recreation Area Campground to enjoy the forested area just below the Tionesta Dam. The area is ideal for fishing as well as scenic hiking.

Tionesta is a culturally rich region with a long history. The Seneca Indian tribe named this area "where the water separates the land." Nearly a century ago, narrow gauge railways dotted the surrounding countryside, hauling out virgin timber from the hillsides.

Recreation

In-season hunting, fishing, boating, hiking and water skiing, are all available from Tionesta.

Visitors interested in wildlife viewing are likely to spot white-tailed deer, porcupine, wild turkey, osprey and opossum.

Outside the campground entrance is a beach area for swimming and picnicking along Tionesta Creek. No lifeguards are on duty.

Facilities

Natural Features

Tionesta Lake winds its way through the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania. Surrounding public areas include the Allegheny National Forest, Cooks Forest State Park, Cornplanter and Clear Creek State Forests, the state fish hatchery and state game lands.

Nearby Attractions

Tionesta Creek Road, which winds through the Tionesta Creek valley upstream of the dam, is an excellent scenic drive with spectacular views.

The nearby Allegheny National Forest also makes a great day trip.