Boating at Elk State Park
Unlimited horsepower motors permitted
The 1,160-acre East Branch Lake has one boat launch on Instanter Drive. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also provides a boat launch by the dam.
Boat Registration
Motorboats must display a current boat registration. Non-powered boats must display one of the following:
- Boat registration
- Launch permit or mooring permit from Pennsylvania state parks -- available at most state park offices
- Launch permit from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and laws apply.
Boat Mooring
Elk State Park has three mooring/docking areas around the lake:
- Instanter
- Swamp Creek
- Army Corps of Engineers
The
Elk State Park Dock Manual (PDF) includes all the rules, guidelines, and policies for docks and overnight mooring.
Iceboating
Iceboats must display a current state park launch permit.
Ice thickness is not monitored.
Be Safe on the Ice
Test ice thickness with an auger before recreating. Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for a single person. Seven inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for small group. Ice should be six inches thick for iceboating.
Always carry safety equipment and know how to use it.
Spread out. Crowds can put too much weight onto one area.
Be aware of changes in ice thickness across a body of water. Perimeter ice is weaker due to shifting, expansion and sunlight reflecting off of the bottom.
Avoid areas with protruding logs, brush, plants, and docks. These structures absorb heat, weakening the surrounding ice.
Avoid areas with multiple or intersecting cracks, and standing water over ice.
Venturing out on ice alone is not advisable. Take a friend along for fun and for safety.
Wear a PFD (life jacket).
Check the weather and plan accordingly. Several days with temperatures above freezing will weaken the ice.