Presque Isle State Park

Closed — Presque Isle is a day-use park only and does not offer overnight camping. The park is open year-round from 5:00 a.m. to sunset. Pavilion rentals are available through the reservation system.

About

Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that extends into Lake Erie, creating Pennsylvania's only true seashore experience. The peninsula forms Presque Isle Bay, providing a natural harbor for the city of Erie and serving as an important Great Lakes shipping port. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1967, Presque Isle is renowned for its ecological diversity and is considered one of the best birdwatching locations in the United States, particularly at the Gull Point Natural Area. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities despite being a day-use facility only. The 13-mile road loop provides access to numerous beaches, hiking trails, and bike paths along the Lake Erie coastline. Swimming is available at designated beaches during summer months, while fishing, boating, and wildlife observation remain popular throughout the year. The park's unique habitats support more endangered, threatened, and rare species than any other area of comparable size in Pennsylvania. The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) serves as the gateway to Presque Isle, offering free admission to interactive exhibits, a 75-foot observation tower, and educational programs. This LEED silver-certified facility provides environmental education programs year-round for all ages, including guided walks, pontoon boat tours, and kayaking opportunities through the interior lagoons. The park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to sunset, with after-hours access limited to those engaged in evening driving. While overnight camping is not permitted at Presque Isle, numerous private campgrounds are located nearby for visitors seeking overnight accommodations.

Directions

Presque Isle State Park can be reached via PA Route 832 north, located four miles west of downtown Erie. The park can also be accessed by boat. The road system within the park forms a 13-mile loop.

Nearby Campgrounds