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Pennsylvania
209

Pennsylvania State Parks

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Pennsylvania
Northwest Region
Shenango River Lake
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SHENANGO RIVER LAKE
SHENANGO RIVER LAKE
2442 Kelly Road,
Hermitage, Pennsylvania   16148
(lat:41.2653 lon:-80.4614) map location

Phone: 724 962-7746
Situated within the suburban Shenango Valley, Shenango River Lake provides an attractive setting for your enjoyment. Visitors choose to spend their day picnicking, camping, or enjoying nature's beauty. History buffs will enjoy exploring the remnants of the Erie Extension Canal, sections of which are located on project property. The Erie Extension Canal played a key role in the economic development of Northwestern Pennsylvania. The well-preserved remains of Lock Number 10 are found in Sharpsville, approximately one-half mile down stream of the Shenango Dam. Other historic features include the Kidds Mill Covered Bridge.
Nature of the Area
Shenango River Lake, located in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, is nestled within a picturesque landscape characterized by its rolling hills and lush greenery typical of the Western Pennsylvania region. The lake itself was created as part of a flood control project with the construction of Shenango Dam on the Shenango River. It spans over 3,500 acres when at summer pool level and provides an array of recreational opportunities amidst its natural setting. The surrounding geography includes mixed hardwood forests that offer vibrant foliage displays during autumn months and serve as habitat for diverse wildlife species. Adjacent to agricultural lands and small rural communities, this area also features wetlands along portions of shoreline which contribute to ecological diversity while supporting water quality improvement efforts within this tributary system feeding into Beaver River downstream.
History of the Area
Shenango River Lake, located in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, is a man-made reservoir created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control purposes. The project was authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1938 and initiated with construction beginning in 1963.

Prior to its development into a lake and recreation area, the land surrounding it primarily served agricultural uses with some areas utilized for industrial activities due to nearby coal deposits. Ownership belonged mainly to local farmers along with small businesses related directly or indirectly to agriculture and mining industries.

The damming of Shenango River transformed over 11 square miles into an expansive water body completed in 1965. It now serves multiple functions including flood risk management, water quality improvement within the Shenango Valley watershed region as well as providing recreational opportunities such as camping sites at Chestnut Run Swim Beach which opened later on after initial creation.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing options, including boat and shoreline casting. Common catches include bass, walleye, crappie, and muskellunge. The lake also offers catfish and panfish opportunities for those interested in diverse species. Seasonal trout stocking provides additional excitement for trout enthusiasts seeking to reel in rainbow or brown varieties.


Location
Shenango River Lake is located near Cortland, Girard and Greenville

Trails
1. Mahaney Recreation Area Trail: A 0.5-mile loop trail offering easy walking conditions and scenic views of the Shenango River Lake, suitable for all skill levels.

2. Chestnut Run Swim Beach Trail: This short 0.3-mile path leads to a sandy beach area on the lake where visitors can relax or swim during warm weather months.

3. Riverside Nature Trail: Approximately one mile in length, this trail provides hikers with an opportunity to explore local flora and fauna along the river's edge through deciduous forest terrain.

4. Pioneer Campground Loop: At about two miles long, this moderate-level hiking route encircles the campground providing picturesque vistas of wooded areas surrounding Shenango River Lake.

5. Shenango Hiking/Biking Trail (North): Extending north from Kidds Mill Bridge Park towards Sharpsville Dam is approximately eight miles; it offers mixed-use opportunities including biking alongside tranquil waterway scenes.

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Area Campgrounds
RV Village Camping Resort
235 North Skyline Drive
Mercer, PA
Shenango Valley RV Park
559 East Crestview Drive
Transfer, PA
724-962-9800
Farma Family Campground
87 Hughey Road
Greenville, PA
724-253-4535
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Bill's Field & Stream
242 Birchwood Dr # B
Transfer, PA
(724) 962-2950
Western Reserve Fish & Game
W Middlesex-Mercer Rd
Mercer, PA
(724) 983-1473
Area Cabins and Lodges
Radisson Hotel of Sharon
3377 New Castle Rd
West Middlesex, PA
(724) 528-2501
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Take the Sharon/Hermitage exit 4b from Interstate 80 and go North on SR 18 for approximately 7 miles. Take the Birchwood Drive exit and head South on SR18 for about 1/4 mile. Turn right onto West Lake Drive and the Shenango Recreation Area is 1/4 mile on the left.

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Pennsylvania
209

Pennsylvania State Parks

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