Prepare for Your Next Vacation to the Valley
Visit Harveys Lake
Harveys Lake
Things To Do
- Enjoy Hiking One of Many Trails
- Bird Watching
- Take a Tour of Local Historic Sites and Museums
- Go Boating
Nearby Restaurants
- Lakeside Skillet
- Rich & Charlotte's
- Grotto Pizza
- Jones' Potato Pancakes
- Sportsman's Bar & Grill
Come Visit
Harveys Lake
Harvey’s Lake is a borough located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The town is situated around the largest natural lake in the state, which is also called Harvey’s Lake. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Harvey’s Lake was initially used as a hunting and fishing ground by the Native American tribes who lived in the area. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century and established farms and sawmills. The town began to grow in the late 1800s as a summer resort destination for people from the nearby cities of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. The town’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 20th century, and it became a year-round residential community with a thriving tourism industry.
In the mid-20th century, Harvey’s Lake was known as a hotspot for organized crime. The notorious mobster Albert Anastasia owned a summer home on the lake, and it was rumored that he used it as a hideout. The lake’s association with organized crime earned it the nickname “Mafia Lake” in some circles.
Today, Harvey’s Lake is primarily a residential community, but it still attracts visitors who come to enjoy the lake’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. There are several parks and boat launches around the lake, and fishing is a popular pastime. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including an ice fishing derby, a triathlon, and a 4th of July fireworks display.
Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania is a small borough situated in the Pocono Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The lake itself is the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania, and it is the borough’s main attraction. Visitors to Harveys Lake can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The surrounding wooded areas offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
In addition to outdoor activities, Harveys Lake is home to several restaurants, bars, and shops. There are also several parks and recreational areas in and around the lake, including Pole Bridge Park, Sandy Beach Park, and Sunset Park. The Endless Mountains Nature Center is also located nearby, offering educational programs and nature hikes for visitors of all ages.
Harveys Lake also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Arts Festival, the Independence Day celebration, and the fall Harvest Festival. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy ice skating and ice fishing on the lake, and there are several nearby ski resorts for those interested in winter sports.