In the heart of the Laurel Highlands and spanning the Mason-Dixon line between Pennsylvania and Maryland lays Youghiogheny River Lake. Boaters consider Youghiogheny River Lake, with its 16-mile length and channels up to one-half mile wide, the best powerboat and water-skiing lake in southwestern Pennsylvania. The tail
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (814) 395-3242
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Youghiogheny River Lake — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Youghiogheny River Lake?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Youghiogheny River Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Youghiogheny River Lake?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Fireweed Road, Great Allegheny Passage, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (left bank). Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Youghiogheny River Lake is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
NPS Photo/Tom Markwardt National Park Service Fort Necessity National Battlefield
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Brian M. Powell (user Bitmapped on en.wikipedia ) / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jennings Randolph Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
