RAYSTOWN LAKE

Raystown Lake is a federal lake controlled by the Army Corps of Engineers. It was created for flood control in the early 1970's. A much smaller previous dam did exist. The cottages, bridges, farm fields and roads that surrounded the old dam were covered up during its filling. The top of the old dam is nearly 150 feet below the surface today. Much of the standing timber that aligned the old dam is preserved under water. Areas with bottom depths of around 60 feet and shallower were timbered to keep the tree tops from the surface. Raystown Lake is 33 miles long with 110 miles of shoreline and covers nearly 8300 acres of surface area. Depths of nearly 200 feet can be found.

Since the dam completion, outdoor enthusiast have come with interest in fishing and recreational boating. The Army Corps of Engineers owns much of the surrounding forest around the lake. This results in seclusion rarely found these days. You can truly experience the outdoors without looking at a house construction or private dock. This truly is one of the best outdoor experiences available within a full days drive.

The lake has only two marinas to accommodate mooring of boats and fuel. Overlooks and hiking trails are available. Camping facilities are great and available in a few areas at the waters edge.

Stripers are the largest and most talked about fish of Raystown Lake . These fish truly are the largest game fish available in PA. Raystown Lake was one of the first lakes to introduce Saltwater Striped Bass inland.

We commonly see deer, bear, squirrels and turkey during the season. Beaver dams are around and evidence of their existence is on the shorelines of backwaters. The Pa Game Commission reintroduced several pairs of Otters back into the wild here. Bald Eagles have established nest and permanent residency in recent years.

A large visitors center sits near mid lake above 7 Points Marina. This center is well worth the visit to anyone visiting the area. A wealth of information and interactive learning tools are available here.

 

    

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