Lake Chillisquaque, reservoir in Montour County, Pennsylvania
Lake Chillisquaque is a reservoir in Montour County covering about 165 acres along the middle branch of Chillisquaque Creek. Built in the early 1970s to provide cooling water for a nearby power plant, it sits within the Montour Preserve, which offers trails, fishing access, boat launches, and picnic areas.
The reservoir was created in the early 1970s by a utility company called PP and L as a cooling water source for the nearby Montour Steam Electric Station. Over the decades, it has become a popular recreation area while continuing to serve its original function supporting the region's energy needs.
The name comes from a Native American word meaning "song of the wild goose," reflecting the wildlife heritage of the area. Geese and other birds visit regularly, and you can watch them flying overhead or resting on the water.
The site is open from dawn to dusk and features boat ramps and small docks for water access. Keep in mind that only electric motors are allowed on boats, swimming is not permitted, and alcohol and firearms are banned at the site.
The Montour Preserve surrounding the lake features a fossil pit where visitors can dig in shale and take home fossils they find. A guide book helps identify the discoveries and teaches about the geological history preserved in the Mahantango Formation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
