Frequently Asked Questions
General
No, swimming is not allowed in the lake. There are designated areas along the beach where guests may wade into the water but swimming is strictly prohibited.
The lake is 535 acres, 40 ft in the center of the lake and 80 ft at its deepest near the dam. Park maps are available upon request.
There is only one hiking trail on the East Launch (the side of the lake the Boat Rental is on), this trail is called the Red Trail and is only a short hike along the shoreline. The entrance to the Red Trail is located on the south end of the parking lot. For expanded hiking options, we recommend heading to the West Launch, whose entrance is located across from 801 N Reeds Rd. There are multiple trail options on that side of the lake, for a scenic hike we recommend the White Trail which follows the shoreline up to the dam.
Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in all Pennsylvania state parks, including Marsh Creek State Park. This ban applies to all areas of the park, including picnic areas, beaches, parking lots, and campgrounds. Visitors are not allowed to consume or display alcohol within the park boundaries.
Dogs are permitted in Marsh Creek State Park but must be kept on a leash (maximum 6 feet) and under control at all times. While allowed in many areas, pets are prohibited in designated swimming areas. Dog training is permitted only from Labor Day through March 31.
Boating
Yes, guests may bring their own boats for use on the lake. All personal boats must have a valid Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Launch Permit. Personal boats must launch from either the East Boat Launch or West Boat Launch, personal boats can not launch from the Boat Rental beach or docks.
Yes, all personal boats need a valid Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Launch Permit. Launch permits can be purchased at the park office or online at www.huntfish.pa.gov. Pennsylvania does not recognize launch permits from other states.
Yes, no gas-powered boats are allowed on the lake. Electric motor boats must operate at slow, no wake speed. Blue Marsh Lake and Nockamixon State Park do allow gas powered boating with some restrictions.
Dogs are allowed on the Large and Small Electric Boats but are not allowed on sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes.
Fishing
Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, and Yellow Perch. Tiger Muskellunge (up to 40+ inches) are also present, alongside Smallmouth Bass, Carp, and Sunfish. The lake is designated as a big bass lake and specific regulations apply.
Marsh Creek State Park has stocked the lake in the past but has not done so in recent years. The park has taken steps towards maintaining the existing population rather than stocking the lake every few years.
For recreational fishermen including families and children, the shoreline is a great place to catch smaller fish such as Black Crappie, Bluegill and Yellow Perch. The best bait to use might be live worms, corn, and even bread. For those looking to catch Largemouth Bass and Muskellunge, fishing from a boat is the best option. Most serious fishermen use spinners, fake worms, and other lures.
Fishing licenses can be purchased by visiting www.huntfish.pa.gov or a sporting goods store such as Dicks or Walmart. Gordons Sports Supply, found at 129 Pottstown Pike, Eagle, PA 19480 also sells fishing licenses as well as a robust selection of fishing accessories and is the closest location to the park.