Swim Clear Water and Hike Delaware Water Gap Together
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Why Rent On Wild Acres Lake
Wild Acres Lake is the primary lake in the Wild Acres Lakes private community in Pike County, Pennsylvania — an 81-acre lake in the Pocono Mountains managed by the Wild Acres Lakes Property and Homeowners Association (WALPOA). The community encompasses seven stocked lakes in total, all restricted to non-motorized watercraft only, which means the water stays calm and quiet across the entire property year-round. Two outdoor pools, playgrounds, a recreation area, beaches, tennis and basketball courts, a bocce ball court, and a clubhouse round out the on-site amenities. Two miles northeast, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area’s George W. Childs Recreation Site puts three named waterfalls — Fulmer Falls, Factory Falls, and Deer Leap Falls — within a short trail walk and makes the community’s natural surroundings as compelling as the lakes themselves.
On the water
Fishing across all seven stocked community lakes is the central water activity. Because every lake is non-motorized, kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, and paddleboarding are the dominant ways to move around the water — and the calm, wake-free character is the defining advantage for families with young children and beginners who would find a busy motorized lake stressful. Swimming is available at community beaches. A WALPOA community badge must be worn at all times on the water alongside a valid Pennsylvania fishing licence; both must be visible. Ice fishing is possible in winter when lake conditions allow. Non-motorized watercraft only is strictly enforced on all seven lakes; boat registration within the community requires passing the WALPOA Rules and Regulations test and providing proof of ownership and liability insurance.
What to do near Wild Acres Lake
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, two miles northeast, is the major natural draw in the immediate area. The George W. Childs Recreation Site in Dingmans Ferry features a flat loop trail past Fulmer Falls, Factory Falls, and Deer Leap Falls on Dingmans Creek — an easy family hike with three spectacular waterfall stops and minimal elevation change. Check NPS for current access and any seasonal restrictions before heading out. Dingmans Ferry, about 3.5 miles east, handles basic services. Milford, the Pike County seat 15 miles north, adds restaurants, shops, and Delaware River kayaking and tubing. Lake Wallenpaupack, one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes and about 20 miles northwest, provides motorized boating access for anyone in the group who wants to run a powerboat.
When to go and where to stay
Summer, Memorial Day through Labor Day, is the primary season when all community amenities are fully operational. The non-motorized lake policy makes the community genuinely four-season for fishing and paddling — ice fishing is possible in winter, and the waterfall trails in the surrounding national recreation area are excellent in fall foliage. Confirm which community facilities are currently open with your host property before booking, as some have been closed for maintenance periods. Vacation rental properties within the Wild Acres Lakes community are the only way to access the lakes and amenities; a rental includes full community badge privileges, beach and pool access, and a private kitchen and outdoor space. Browse Lake.com for pet-friendly listings in the Wild Acres community, multi-bedroom properties for larger family groups, and homes near the main lake beach in Pike County, Pennsylvania.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.21
- Elevation (ft)
- 1092.52
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Wild Acres Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated areas for swimming in Wild Acres Lakes. The community has beaches and two outdoor pools, as well as an indoor pool at the clubhouse, where swimming is allowed.
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Wild Acres Lake is a popular destination because it offers seven lakes stocked with various fish species. The community allows non-motorized watercraft, ensuring clean and quiet waters ideal for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, fishing, and swimming. It is also close to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia.
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Yes, you need a WALPOA badge in addition to a Pennsylvania fishing license to fish in Wild Acres Lake. The WALPOA badge, along with the state fishing license, must be worn at all times while fishing. This is according to the rules and regulations of Wild Acres Lakes.
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The north lake beach at Wild Acres Lake is not the best for families because it does not have restrooms, lifeguards, or nearby food. This makes it less suitable for family needs compared to other beaches that offer these amenities.
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Towns near Wild Acres Lake include Pocono Ranch Lands, Birchwood Lakes, and Pocono Mountain Lake Estates in Pennsylvania. These towns are all located in the surrounding area, offering similar natural scenery and recreational opportunities. Wild Acres Lake is also accessible from larger towns like East Stroudsburg and Port Jervis, which are a short drive away.