20 Frequently Asked Questions at Raystown Lake:

1. Is this a state park?

No, Raystown Lake is a Federal Park. We are part of the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, in the Department of Defense.

2.  How deep is the lake?

Lake Levels vary. Overall, Raystown Lake is a deep lake, with areas that drop 65’ just off shore, to 200’ in depth at the northernmost section of the lake. Near points and sandy outcroppings, the lake level may be as low as 5’ deep. For up to date reports on the lake conditions you can see the Daily Lake Report online. Click Here.

3.  How do I make a camping reservation?

Make your reservation by telephone at 877-444-6777 toll free or over the internet www.recreation.gov. For reservations via internet, visit the link above and search campsites, Pennsylvania, and Seven Points or Susquehannock. 

4.  Are there hiking trails?   

There are 5 trails with over 70 miles of hiking and mountain biking adventures waiting for you!  From a sloping half mile path to entire systems that can take days to traverse there’s a trail perfect for everyone.  For maps and to learn more about each trail visit our trails page.

5.  How do I get a job like yours? 

Applying for a job is a three step process. Go to USAJOBS at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ for more information.

STEP 1:   Use any of the automated components of the Federal Employment Information System to find available jobs.

STEP 2:   Obtain the Vacancy Announcement

STEP 3:   Follow the Application Instructions

6.    What do you do here in the winter time?

For the permanent administrative, ranger and maintenance staff, winter is a very busy time. Paperwork, proposals, contracts, and all preparatory work on new and existing projects are developed and finalized throughout the winter months. 

7.  How long is the Lake?

Approximately 28 miles in length.

8. What is the best boat ramp to use on a busy weekend?

During busy weekends, smaller ramps such as Aitch and ramps that service a single area such as Snyder’s Run and Weaver Falls tend to fill quickly. Your best bet is to launch in Seven Points. If the launch parking lot at Seven Points fills, there is ample parking in nearby Laurel and Twin Hollows lots for your vehicle and trailer. You can also call 814-658-3405 for updates on boat launch status’ during busy weekends and peak times to get information on the status’ of each launch.  

9. When was the dam built?

The dam was completed in 1973 under the general construction program and is located in Juniata Township. It covers one developed acre and can be accessed off Route 22 by TR 430 (River Road) or TR 434 (Henderson’s Hollow Road).  

10. Is there a town under the lake?

Contrary to popular belief, most dwellings and structures were removed before the lake was inundated. Some structures such as bridges are still intact, however. On occasion, one of the divers in the area presents programs at the park which give you a “fish’s eye view” of what is actually submerged (such as parts of the old dam). 

11. Can I sleep on my boat overnight?

Sleeping is only permitted if the vessel has factory installed sleep quarters and a waste containment system that is pump-out only. Porta-potties or other devices in which the storage tank can be manually removed do not meet this requirement for sleeping overnight on a vessel.

12. What types of camping hookups do you have?

Electric hookups are available at most sites, potable water pumps are located in each loop, and a dump station in Seven Points is open to all campers. 

13. Can I camp here for the season (is there a limit that I can stay while camping)?

There are no seasonal sites available. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30 day period.

14. Are pets allowed?

Pets are permitted at the project, and must be on a 6’ or less leash at all times. Pets are NOT permitted in buildings or on the beaches. Seeing eye dogs or other guide animals are exempt from these restrictions.

15. Do you take a credit card for camping, shelter reservations or annual launch passes

Payments may be made by cash, money order, check, VISA, Mastercard and Discover.

16. What types of fish are in the lake

Raystown Lake has a diverse fishery, with it’s claim to fame being the Striped Bass. Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Bluegill and many other fish species are abundant in our waters. 

17. Is it true that there are bald eagles at the lake?

We are pleased to say that the project has had a nesting pair return here and hatch their young. Special restrictions apply to certain minute areas of the lake and on project lands during the most critical times of the eagle nesting.

18. What address can I use for my GPS to get to the lake?

Raystown is 30 miles long, but you can get to the Visitor Center located in Seven Points by using: 6145 Seven Points Rd., Hesston, PA 16647.

19. Did a muskie really eat a poodle swimming in the lake?

There is no documented proof for this statement that we often receive. However, wedon’t recommend that you put a small animal in the water with a shiny, jingly collar in an area that is prime muskellunge habitat. 

20. Can I camp anywhere on the lake ?

No. Camping is limited to designated areas of the park, such as Seven Points, Group Camp, Susquehannock, Nancy’s Camp, Lake Raystown Resort and Branch Camp. There are numerous private campgrounds also available throughout the area.

Your Question Not Here? If you can’t find the answer to your specific question, contact us at Raystown.Web@usace.army.mil and we will send you the answer.