Photo: Millie Hayes
Photo: Disyn
Photo: Anthony Pinto
McDade Park
★4.7(1,903 reviews)FreePark
🕑 4-6 hours (full day visit recommended)👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers thrive at the playground, while elementary-aged kids love the lake swimming and paddleboats. Older kids enjoy exploring the walking trails and playing open-field games in the spacious picnic areas.🧡 Saved by 23 families
About
McDade Park is a sprawling family paradise in Scranton offering something for every age, from refreshing lake swimming to paddleboat adventures. With its excellent playground, miles of walking trails, and abundant picnic areas, this free park delivers an entire day of outdoor fun without breaking the bank. The highly rated facility is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its well-maintained grounds and variety of activities.
Highlights
- ✓Lake swimming with designated family-friendly beach area
- ✓Paddleboat rentals for family water adventures
- ✓Large modern playground with equipment for various ages
- ✓Scenic walking trails perfect for nature exploration
- ✓Spacious picnic areas with grills for family cookouts
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag a shaded picnic pavilion near the playground and lake for easy supervision of multiple activities.
- 2.Bring water shoes for lake swimming as the bottom can be rocky in spots, plus they work great on the trails too.
- 3.Pack a cooler with lunch and snacks since there are no concessions on-site, but plenty of picnic tables and grills available.
- 4.The paddleboat rentals are cash-only, so bring small bills to avoid any hassle.
- 5.Check the park's Facebook page before visiting for any updates on lake conditions or special family events.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during summer for the best lake swimming experience with smaller crowds. Saturday and Sunday afternoons get busy, especially near the playground and lake areas. Spring and fall offer beautiful trail walks with stunning foliage, though swimming is only comfortable in summer months.
What to Know
Admission and parking are completely free, making this an incredible value for families. There are no food vendors on-site, so pack your own meals and drinks. Restroom facilities and ample parking are available near the main activity areas.
Seasonal Notes
Lake swimming and paddleboat rentals typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. The park remains open year-round for playground use, picnicking, and trail walking. Fall foliage season (late September through October) offers spectacular scenery for family photos.
Nearby Eats
Head to Cooper's Seafood House (5 minutes away) for a quirky pirate-themed dining experience kids love, or grab pizza and wings at Buona Pizza (10 minutes) for an easy post-park meal.
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