5 Most Snake-Filled Bodies Of Water In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the biggest hotspots for snake activity in the northeast. Its numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs provide ideal habitats for a wide range of species, especially in warm months when reptiles are most active in this region that otherwise sees four distinct seasons. While the state has no significant venomous water snake populations, it does have a high population of nonvenomous species, particularly water snakes, which thrive in calm, shallow environments rich in fish and amphibians (of which there are many of each here). Let's take a deeper look at the five most snake-filled bodies of water in Pennsylvania — some of the state's most snake-filled waterways, with a focus on locations where you are most likely to encounter these often-misunderstood reptiles.
Raystown Lake
Located in Huntingdon County, Raystown Lake is the largest entirely within Pennsylvania, with 118 miles of shoreline and deep coves that provide ideal conditions for over a dozen kinds of snakes. Northern water snakes are the most common species found here, often seen hanging out on rocks or swimming near docks. These nonvenomous snakes thrive in the lake’s quiet inlets, where prey like frogs, fish, and small mammals are abundant. The dense forest and rocky terrain surrounding the lake also support a healthy population of timber rattlesnakes in higher elevations. While they tend to avoid human activity, sightings near hiking trails are not uncommon in warmer months. On the other hand, boaters and anglers frequently report encounters with water snakes, especially around the Seven Points area and Trough Creek State Park shoreline.
Susquehanna River
Stretching over 440 miles, the Susquehanna River is one of the most snake-active waterways in Pennsylvania. Its slow-moving currents, rocky islands strewn throughout, and heavily vegetated banks create prime conditions for northern water snakes, which are frequently spotted near notable communities like Harrisburg and Sunbury. Note that these snakes are aggressive when cornered but not venomous, often mistaken for copperheads due to their dark banding. The river’s vast floodplain and numerous tributaries also support a range of other slithery reptiles, including eastern garter snakes and the occasional black rat snake. And in more remote sections, particularly near forested ridgelines, timber rattlesnakes may be encountered sunning on rock outcrops close to the water. Because of the river’s scale and sheer diversity of habitats, snake encounters are common, primarily among kayakers and canoeists, shoreline fishermen, and swimmers, especially in the summer.
Lake Wallenpaupack
Located in the incredibly scenic Pocono Mountains, Lake Wallenpaupack spans over 5,700 acres with an irregular shoreline that creates numerous secluded coves, which again, are ideal habitat for aquatic snakes. Northern water snakes are frequently observed here, especially near boat launches, marinas, and shallow backwaters where other aquatic prey is abundant. Though nonvenomous, they may bite if provoked, as mentioned before. The lake’s eastern shoreline, near the Lacawac Sanctuary and Hawley, sees consistent sightings from fishermen and those strolling the shoreline. With its mix of water bodies and land-based ecosystems, Lake Wallenpaupack supports one of the densest populations of water snakes in northeastern Pennsylvania in general. Surrounding wetlands and wooded hills in the adjacent lands also attract other species like garter snakes and milk snakes.
Pymatuning Reservoir
Straddling the Pennsylvania and Ohio border, Pymatuning Reservoir is not just a renowned recreational area, but is known for its expansive marshes and shallow bays, which house a high concentration of common water snakes. These snakes are especially active from spring to early fall and are commonly seen in lily pad-covered coves and near the causeway. With tons of frogs, small fish, and crayfish also living here, it is a lively spot for all sorts of predatory creatures in the water. In fact, birdwatchers and photographers visiting the Linesville Spillway often encounter water snakes basking along the concrete edges around the shoreline. Other species you can come across in nearby Pymatuning State Park, such as garter snakes, eastern milk snakes, and timber rattlesnakes, have occasionally been documented in local upland areas.
Marsh Creek Lake
Just a short drive west of Philadelphia, Marsh Creek Lake is a manmade reservoir surrounded by fields, forest, and wetlands that host numerous flora and fauna, snakes included. Common and northern water snakes can usually be spotted along the shoreline, especially in the shallow northern reaches where vegetation is thick, with huge populations of waterfowl accompanying them. These snakes are active hunters and are often observed swimming across this much narrower part of the lake for fish and other food sources. Furthermore, the adjacent Marsh Creek State Park also provides habitat for terrestrial species like eastern garter snakes and black rat snakes. Park rangers and regular visitors report consistent snake sightings from late spring through early fall, particularly near the Larkins Bridge area and the western shoreline trails near the main boat launch.
Better Understand Pennsylvania's Snakes Today
While many avoid snakes out of fear or misunderstanding, almost all of Pennsylvania’s lakes and rivers rely on them to maintain healthy ecosystems, from helping to control rodent and amphibian populations to serving as prey themselves for birds and larger predators. The bodies of water listed above are not only hotspots for snake activity but also valuable natural areas where biodiversity is apparent among a wide range of species. Whether you’re hiking a lakeside trail, casting a fishing line, or paddling through backwaters, it’s likely you’ll cross paths with dozens of different plants and animals, most of which interact in some way or another with snakes. Knowing where they live and how to identify them simply adds another layer of awareness and respect to any outdoor experience.
