6 Swimming Lakes Near Philadelphia for Family Fun

Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is a family friendly (and family owned) destination for summer fun. They offer many amenities including a 300' sand beach with water swings and inner tube rentals, lifeguard-protected lake swimming, playground, snack bar, shaded picnic area, children's dock, changing facilities, lawn area, sand volleyball court and more.

This large manmade lake is a recreational haven for swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking over 36 miles of trails, and more! No lifeguards are present. There are even many events where your family can enjoy guided hikes, paddle boarding for beginners, geocaching, etc.

Enjoy family swimming and a sand beach (smoke-free) at Tuscarora Lake in Tuscarora State Park and Locust Lake State Park. There are no lifeguards on duty, however, swimming areas are marked with buoys with a maximum depth of five-and-a-half feet. A snack bar offers concessions for sale.

Bellmawr Lake offers a sandy beach to the public near Center City for swimming (with a deep-end diving board and 100' water slide), beach volleyball, picnic areas, concessions with adult beverages, games (horseshoes, mini golf), pavilions for some shade, and more. Guests can pack their own food and non-alcoholic beverages in coolers and grill out, too! Lifeguards are present.

The Sylvan Lake Swimming Facility in Burlington Township is a safe and fun family lake destination complete with a beach, picnic pavilion, play areas with games and activities, and restrooms with changing facilities. Lifeguards monitor the swimming areas and promote water safety. A concession stand offers grilled and baked foods, snacks, ice cream, beverages and more for purchase.

Part of the Wharton State Forest, the Atsion Recreation Area and Lake provides family swimming opportunities from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty.