When most people hear the word “beach,” their minds immediately drift toward the coast. Salty air. Ocean waves. Sandy toes.

As the folks behind BEACHBALL PROPERTIES, we’ve always been partial to a good beach day ourselves. 😄

But here’s a little mountain secret, SNOWBALLERS…

You don’t have to drive all the way to the ocean to enjoy a relaxing beach day.

Tucked throughout the Laurel Highlands are several beautiful lakes with sandy swimming beaches, peaceful shorelines, and plenty of opportunities to kayak, paddleboard, fish, or simply stretch out with a good book. They may not have seashells or dolphins, but they do have mountain views, fresh air, and a whole lot fewer crowds.

If you’re looking to mix a little “beach time” into your next mountain getaway, you’re in the right place.

Beach Day… Mountain Style

One of our favorite hidden gems is Laurel Hill State Park, located just minutes from Seven Springs.

The centerpiece of the park is its beautiful 63-acre lake, complete with a sandy swimming beach that’s perfect for cooling off during the warmer months. The designated swimming area is supervised seasonally, making it a favorite for families with children.

Prefer to stay on the water? Laurel Hill Lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. Paddle across the calm water in the morning, cast a line for trout or bass, or enjoy floating while taking in the peaceful mountain scenery.

Afterward, spread out a blanket beneath the trees, enjoy lunch at one of the picnic areas, or hit one of the nearby hiking trails before heading back to your cabin.

Now that’s what we call a pretty good day.

Another Shore Worth Exploring

A little farther north, Keystone State Park offers another beach that’s often overlooked by visitors to western Pennsylvania.

Set around a 78-acre lake, the park features a large sandy swimming beach, boat rentals, picnic areas, playgrounds, and easy walking trails that make it an excellent destination for families or couples looking for a slower pace.

The calm water makes kayaking and paddleboarding easy, and if fishing is your thing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout. Or skip the agenda altogether. Spread out a towel, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy a slow afternoon by the lake.

It’s proof that you don’t need crashing waves to enjoy a memorable day by the water.

Make It a Full Day of Fun

A beach day in the Laurel Highlands doesn’t have to be the whole vacation. In fact, it’s even better when it’s part of one.

Start your morning with coffee at your SNOWBALL PROPERTY, spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or picnicking at Laurel Hill or Keystone State Park, then head to Ohiopyle State Park to chase waterfalls, stroll the shops around Ligonier’s Diamond, or grab an ice cream before calling it a day.

That’s one of the things we love most about the Laurel Highlands. You’re never limited to just one adventure.

Why Choose?

The beauty of the Laurel Highlands is that you don’t have to choose between mountain adventures and relaxing by the water.

One day might be spent hiking to a scenic overlook or chasing waterfalls through Ohiopyle State Park. The next could be spent lounging on a sandy beach, paddling across a quiet lake, or enjoying a picnic under the trees.

Pressed for Time? Here’s the Breakdown:

• Spend a beach day at Laurel Hill State Park with swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and picnicking.
• Visit Keystone State Park for another beautiful sandy beach and calm lake perfect for families and outdoor recreation.
• Pair your beach day with nearby adventures like Ohiopyle State Park, Ligonier, scenic drives, waterfalls, or local festivals for the ultimate Laurel Highlands getaway.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, paddling across a quiet lake, or discovering that the mountains have beaches of their own, the Laurel Highlands has a way of surprising you. And when you’re ready to experience it for yourself, SNOWBALL PROPERTIES has the perfect mountain retreat waiting for you.

Come Have A Ball In The Laurel Highlands!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson