Hemlock Lake

Facilities | Directions | Park Map

History

Hemlock Lake was originally called Straight Run Dam when it was completed by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission in 1970. The dam is 650 feet long and is 40 feet high at its highest point. The dam impounds a 60 acre lake. Its deepest point is approximately 33 feet.

Indiana County Parks leases the site from the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission as a public recreation area.

Facilities

The 205 acre park features a 60 acre lake with two boat launches and areas for picnicking, hunting, hiking and fishing (including ice fishing). Two pavilions at the park are available on a first-come first-served basis.

The lake has been stocked with bluegill, bass, catfish, muskellunge, walleye and northern pike. Fishermen may moor their boats at the park following regulations established by the Fish & Boat Commission. Learn more about the species of fish in Hemlock Lake (a.k.a. - Straight Run Lake) by reading the spring 2008 biologist's report. Only electric motors and hand propelled boats are permitted.

Other nearby recreation areas include PA State Gamelands #174, Cloe Dam (Jefferson County) and Little Mahoning Creek.

Please be advised that the access roads to Hemlock Lake do not receive winter maintenance.

Directions

The park is located in northeastern Indiana County in Banks Township. The park's eastern access area is located near the village of Johnsonburg via State Route 1033 (Hemlock Lake Road). The park's western access area is located off SDA Church Camp Road. Nearby towns include Glen Campbell, Rossiter and Smithport. The park is 10 miles southeast of Punxsutawney. A directional map with written directions is available.

Park Map

A detailed map of the park in PDF format is available. This is a large file that may take several moments to appear on your screen. The image may be difficult to read on the screen but will clearly show all text and graphics when printed or enlarged.