Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center
Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center 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
Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center offers lake paddling on Lake Jean in Pennsylvania. Located near Lopez.
Lake paddlers in Pennsylvania will appreciate Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center, which offers direct access to Lake Jean and its surrounding waters.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center sits about 5 min from Lopez, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center?
- Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center is a public boat ramp in Pennsylvania. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center?
- Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center 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 - Visitor Center?
- 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 - Visitor Center?
- The best time to paddle at Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center?
- Water conditions at Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center include calm, sheltered.
- Is Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center good for beginners?
- Yes, Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center 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: 41.3369, -76.3014
Quick Facts
- State
- Pennsylvania
- Region
- Northeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Lopez
41.3369, -76.3014
Best Paddling in Pennsylvania
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Ricketts Glen State Park - Visitor Center
Sign InPaddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Lake Jean
1 other launch on this water body
Nearby Paddling
Ricketts Glen State Park - Beach Trailhead
Pennsylvania · 1.2 mi
Sylvan Lake
Pennsylvania · 9.3 mi
Harris Pond
Pennsylvania · 9.3 mi

WHARTON_DOCK AND BOAT LAUNCH
Pennsylvania · 10.1 mi
Harveys Lake
Pennsylvania · 12.8 mi
Sones Pond
Pennsylvania · 14.5 mi