Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead

Lopez, PA · Boat Ramp · Public

Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead is a public boat ramp on Lake Jean near Lopez, Pennsylvania. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Lake Jean in Pennsylvania. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Lopez.

Paddlers visiting Lake Jean in Pennsylvania can launch from Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Lopez, Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Lopez area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead?
Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead is a public boat ramp in Pennsylvania. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead?
Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead?
The best time to paddle at Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead?
Water conditions at Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead include calm, sheltered.
Is Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead good for beginners?
Yes, Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.3419, -76.2802

Quick Facts

Region
Northeast
Getting There
~5 min from Lopez
Get Directions

41.3419, -76.2802

Best Paddling in Pennsylvania

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!