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Tobyhanna State Park facts for kids

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Tobyhanna State Park
IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
Tobyhanna State Park Lakeshore.jpg
Tobyhanna Lake
Tobyhanna State Park is located in Pennsylvania
Tobyhanna State Park
Tobyhanna State Park
Location in Pennsylvania
Location Pennsylvania, United States
Area 5,440 acres (22.0 km2)
Elevation 2,005 ft (611 m)
Established 1949
Governing body Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Tobyhanna State Park is a fun place to visit in Pennsylvania. It covers about 5,440 acres (2,201 ha) of land. Most of the park is in Monroe County. A small part is in Wayne County. The park opened in 1949.

The park has a beautiful lake called Tobyhanna Lake. This lake is about 170-acre (69 ha) big. Part of Tobyhanna Creek also runs through the park. You can find the park about 2.1 miles (3.4 km) north of the town of Tobyhanna. It's right next to Gouldsboro State Park.

Park History

Past Use as a Training Area

Tobyhanna State Park was once part of a big training area. This area was used for artillery practice a long time ago. Because of this, park visitors should be careful. If you are in quiet, less-used areas of the park, you might see old, rusted metal objects. These objects might look like pointed metal cylinders.

It's very important not to touch or move these items. If you see something like this, please tell the park office right away. This helps keep everyone safe.

The Old Rail Line

The western edge of Tobyhanna State Park follows an old rail line. This railroad was once owned by a very rich man named Jay Gould. He made a huge fortune during the time of the Industrial Revolution. He owned a lot of railroads across the United States.

One of his railroads ran right by where the park is now. Gould also owned a leather factory nearby. Raw animal hides were brought by train from far away places like Australia. Then, wagons took them to the factory.

Today, this rail line separates Tobyhanna State Park from Gouldsboro State Park. Trains still use this line. You can even take fun tourist train rides on it! These rides go from Scranton to places like Tobyhanna and Gouldsboro. There are also plans to use this line for regular passenger trains again in the future.

Things to Do

Boating and Swimming

Tobyhanna pier
A fishing pier and boat rental area at Tobyhanna Lake

At Tobyhanna Lake, you can rent rowboats and canoes. This is usually available from late May to early September. You can also bring your own boat. If you do, it needs to be registered. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake.

The park has a sandy beach where you can swim. The beach is open from 8 AM until sunset. It's open from late May to mid-September. Just remember, there are no lifeguards on duty.

Picnic Areas

If you love picnics, Tobyhanna State Park has many spots for you. There are about 300 picnic tables. You can also reserve a special picnic pavilion. These areas are open all year round.

Hiking Trails

Tobyhanna trails
Different colored trails: Blue, yellow, and red

The park has several well-marked trails for hiking. You'll see bright paint marks on trees to guide you.

  • The Blue Trail goes all the way around Tobyhanna Lake. It's about 5.1-mile (8.2 km) long. This trail is mostly flat and has gravel. It's a pretty easy walk for most people.
  • The Yellow Trail is about 3.3-mile (5.3 km) long. It goes northeast towards Pennsylvania Route 196.
  • The Red Trail is about 3.2-mile (5.1 km) long. It connects Tobyhanna State Park to Gouldsboro State Park.

The yellow and red trails can be a bit harder to walk on. They might have more tree roots and stones.

Winter Fun

When winter comes, Tobyhanna State Park offers cool activities.

  • There's a special area for ice skating. It's about 1.2-acre (0.49 ha) big.
  • You can also go snowmobiling on a 5.5-mile (8.9 km) trail.
  • Ice fishing is popular on the lake. Always check how thick the ice is before you go out!

Hunting

Hunting is allowed in certain parts of the park. It's also allowed on the game lands next to the park. However, you cannot hunt on Tobyhanna Lake itself or a small area east of the lake. Signs will show you where hunting is permitted. If you are visiting during hunting season, it's a good idea to wear bright orange clothing so hunters can see you easily.

Camping and Stays

Tobyhanna State Park has places to stay overnight.

  • There are five spots for large groups to set up tents. Each spot can hold 20 to 40 people.
  • There's also a big camping area with 140 sites. It has hand pumps for water, flush toilets, and a dump station for trailers.
  • Some camping sites welcome pets, so you can bring your furry friends!
  • Besides camping, you can enjoy the pavilion, picnic areas, and the sand beach. There's also a volleyball net for some fun games.

Nearby State Parks

Many other state parks are close to Tobyhanna State Park. Here are some within 30 miles (48 km):

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