Boating on Lake Wallenpaupack
From full-service marinas to pontoon rentals and summer events on the water- here's what you need to know before you launch.
Looking for a place to launch, dock, fuel up, or rent a boat?
Explore our directory of local marinas and boat rental companies to compare options around the lake.
Find Marinas & Boat Rentals
What You'll Find on the Lake
Pontoon Boat Rentals
Kayaks & Paddleboards
Runabout & Fishing Boat Rentals
Supplies & Lakefront Amenities
Boat Launches & Docking Service
Renting a Boat on Lake Wallenpaupack
Don’t have a boat? No problem. Several local companies offer boat rentals so visitors can experience the lake without owning one.
Popular rental options around the lake:
Boat Safety on Lake Wallenpaupack
Boating on Lake Wallenpaupack is a great way to enjoy the water, but safety should always come first. The lake can become busy during the summer months with fishing boats, pontoons, jet skis, and watersports activity.
Following basic boating safety guidelines helps ensure everyone can enjoy the lake safely.
Boating Laws in Pennsylvania
Boaters must follow safety regulations set by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Some key requirements include:
Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket on most boats.
Operators of personal watercraft must follow additional safety rules.
Certain boaters must complete a state-approved boating safety course.
You can learn more about regulations and safety education through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Speed Limits
Lake Wallenpaupack is one of the few large lakes in Pennsylvania that allows high-speed boating, but limits still apply:
45 MPH – Maximum speed from sunrise to sunset on weekends and holidays from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day
25 MPH – Maximum speed from sunset to sunrise
Slow / No-Wake Speed – Required in certain areas of the lake and near docks and shorelines
No-Wake Zones
Boats must operate at slow, no-wake speed in several locations, including:
Wallenpaupack Creek
The area between Cairn’s Island and the Pike County shoreline
Near the dam
Near the Ledgedale Bridge area
No-wake rules are also enforced around docks, marinas, swimmers, and congested areas.
Life Jacket
Pennsylvania boating law requires:
Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket while on a boat
Every boat must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger
From November 1 – April 30, life jackets must be worn on boats under 16 feet and on kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards
Boat Launches
Mangan Cove (PFBC) - Main Public Launch
263 Ledgedale Road
Greentown, PA
Ledgedale Recreation Area
263 Ledgedale Road
Greentown, PA
Wilsonville Recreation Area
113 Ammon Drive
Hawley, PA
Caffrey Recreation Area
431 Lakeshore Drive
Lakeville, PA
Ironwood Point Recreation
155 Burns Hill Rd
Greentown, PA
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a boating license on Lake Wallenpaupack?
In Pennsylvania, a boating safety certificate is required for anyone born after January 1, 1982 who operates a motorboat with more than 25 horsepower. Operators of jet skis and other personal watercraft must also complete a boating safety course through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Are jet skis allowed on Lake Wallenpaupack?
Yes. Personal watercraft like jet skis are allowed on the lake and are very popular during the summer. Operators must follow safety rules and regulations set by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Are there sandbars or places to anchor boats?
There are several popular areas where boaters gather and anchor, especially during summer weekends. These spots are often used for relaxing, swimming, or social boating.
Local marinas can usually recommend safe anchoring areas depending on lake levels and conditions.
Does Lake Wallenpaupack get rough water?
It can. Wind and heavy boat traffic can create choppy conditions, especially in the main open sections of the lake. Smaller boats, kayaks, and paddleboards often stay closer to protected coves where the water is calmer.
Is Lake Wallenpaupack safe for beginner boaters?
Yes, but beginners should be cautious during busy summer weekends. The lake is large and allows high-speed boating, which means boat traffic can become heavy in the afternoons. Many first-time boaters prefer weekday mornings or evenings when the water is calmer.
When is the lake busiest for boating?
Summer weekends — especially July and August afternoons — are typically the busiest times on Lake Wallenpaupack. Many locals recommend boating early in the morning or on weekdays for calmer water and lighter traffic.
Can you boat at night on Lake Wallenpaupack?
Yes, but boats must follow nighttime speed limits and display proper navigation lights. Boaters should move slowly and stay alert because visibility is limited.