We all have our own idea of what makes the perfect summer day – whether it’s riding the coasters at our favorite amusement park or hiking on a waterfall-dotted trail. Sometimes, though, we need a day of sunshine, sand, and cool water. You won’t find a better natural pool in which to have an old-fashioned beach day than Sand Spring Lake in Pennsylvania.

A full day of fun awaits at Hickory Run State Park in White Haven, an ideal summer destination.

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With both lush grass and soft sand, the beach offers plenty of space to spread out whether you’re bringing a beach towel or a beach chair. Don’t forget your umbrella!

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The beach welcomes swimmers daily from the end of May until the middle of September. Arrive early - the beach opens at 8 a.m. - and relax the day away.

Trip Advisor/Edwin O. The beach closes at sunset.

You’ll find everything you need for an old-fashioned beach day, including a snack bar. Grab lunch, dinner, or a cold ice cream treat.

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If you don’t feel like spending the whole day beachside, you’ve got a whole lot more to explore at the park. Let your kids go wild at the playground, or set off on one of the scenic hiking trails.

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Save time for a visit to Boulder Field, too. It’s a National Natural Landmark that you really have to see to believe.

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Hawk Falls Trail, which tallies just over half a mile, leads to a gorgeous waterfall of the same name. Swimming is not permitted in the waterfall.

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The park also offers such family-friendly activities as disc golf, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

Google/F. Palma You might not be able to go swimming in the winter, but the park is also popular for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.

Find a full menu of amenities on the official website of Hickory Run State Park.

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The beach closes at sunset.

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You might not be able to go swimming in the winter, but the park is also popular for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.

Have you been to Sand Spring Lake in Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! If you’ve got a bit more time than a day, hit the highway on a road trip to Pennsylvania’s hidden beaches.

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Address: Hickory Run State Park, 3613 PA-534, White Haven, PA 18661, USA