Maurice K Goddard State Park, a Pennsylvania State Park located near Franklin, Greenville and Hermitage

MAURICE K GODDARD STATE PARK

MAURICE K GODDARD STATE PARK
684 Lake Wilhelm Road
Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania 16145

(lat:41.4269 lon:-80.1469)

It's in Mercer County. If you like fishing, this place is basically heaven because of Lake Wilhelm, a massive 1,860-acre lake packed with largemouth bass, walleye, and monster muskellunge. Grab a boat. You can launch anything up to 20 horsepower here, which means you can cruise around the water all day without dealing with crazy, roaring speedboats. It's actually pretty peaceful.

Maybe you hate boats. That's fine. You can hop on your bike instead and tackle the John C. Oliver Multi-Use Trail, a paved 12.2-mile loop that hugs the shoreline and gives you some killer views of the water. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles. Seriously. They nest near the lake, alongside osprey and tons of migrating waterfowl that drop in during the spring and fall. So, pack some snacks and go explore.

Passes

There are no entrance fees or day use fees for any state park in Pennsylvania.

Location

Maurice K Goddard State Park is located near Franklin, Greenville and Hermitage

Nearby Parks

Erie National Wildlife Refuge

Pymatuning State Park

Shenango River Lake

Picnicking

You will find dozens of wooden picnic tables scattered right along the shoreline of Lake Wilhelm. The view is awesome. Since the lake covers over 1,800 acres, you get plenty of breeze to keep the bugs away. Most spots have charcoal grills. Just bring your own matches and charcoal. Restrooms are close by. The spots near the marina are the best because you can watch the pontoon boats launch.

The park features four large picnic shelters that you can reserve up to eleven months in advance online. They even have electricity. So, you can easily plug in a crockpot of meatballs or a big coffee pot. Otherwise, they are first-come, first-served. That is perfect for a last-minute birthday party. Just pack your own trash bags.

- T Walker

Trails

John C. Oliver Multi-Use Trail - A paved, multi-use trail winding through the woods and along the shoreline of Lake Wilhelm, perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Length 12.2 miles.

Falling Run Nature Trail - A scenic loop trail that traverses a mature hardwood forest, crosses a small stream, and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Length 0.7 miles.

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