Presque Isle State Park

Welcome to Pennsylvania's beautiful Presque Isle State Park located on a peninsula that jets out into Lake Erie.

Park History: Before the first Europeans arrived in North America the Native Americans ruled the land that is now Presque Isle State Park. An old legend of the Eriez tribe goes that they ventured far out into Lake Erie to find the place where the sun sank into the lake. In response, the lake spirits started a powerful storm and the Great Spirit stretched out his left arm into Lake Erie to protect the Eriez from the storm. The result of this stretching of the arm was this magnificent peninsula. Geologists however, believe that the peninsula was formed by glacial retreat and deposits at the end of the last ice age many thousands of years ago. The name Presque Isle, which translates to "almost an island," was given to the land by some of the early French Settlers in the region.

During the war of 1812 over half of the ships commanded by Commodore Oliver Perry were built in the region and in September 1813, Perry defeated the British at the Battle of Lake Erie. The park's lighthouse, the second oldest on Lake Erie, was built in 1872.

Wildlife: The diverse ecosystems of Presque Isle State Park help protect the home of numerous wild animals including raccoons, white-tailed deer, and over 320 species of birds. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Presque Isle State Park boasts numerous aquatic opportunities including freshwater scuba diving, miles of multipurpose trails including access to the Karl Boyes Natoinal Recreation Trail, and much more. Come on out and explore!

To contact the office please call 814-833-7424.