Where is Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pennsylvania?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Presque Isle State Park is located in Pennsylvania, USA. It lies between Erie and Lake Erie and is situated on a sand peninsula along the lake shore. It is famous for its beaches, birdwatching, and outdoor recreational activities.

Presque Isle State Park Location Map, Erie, Pennsylvania

Top Attractions Inside Presque Isle State Park

  • Beach Areas – Sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family recreation.
  • Erie Harbor & Marina – Boating, fishing, and waterfront dining opportunities.
  • Tom Ridge Environmental Center – Educational exhibits on local ecology, wildlife, and conservation.
  • Biking & Walking Trails – Scenic trails through dunes, wetlands, and along the lakeshore.
  • Birdwatching – Prime location for spotting migratory birds and native species.
  • Picnic & Recreation Areas – Designated spots for picnicking, relaxation, and outdoor activities.
  • Wildlife Observation – Opportunities to see deer, foxes, waterfowl, and other local fauna.

Presque Isle State Park Facts

Official NamePresque Isle State Park
LocationErie, Erie County, Pennsylvania, USA — Lake Erie peninsula / Presque Isle Bay
Latitude & Longitude42.1293° N, 80.0856° W
Total AreaApprox. 3,200 acres (≈12.95 km²) of peninsula, beaches, lagoons, and forests
Established / Opened1921
Managed ByPennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
RegionNorthwestern Pennsylvania / Lake Erie Coast / Great Lakes region
Address1 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505, USA
Zip Code16505
Area Code814
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptLake Erie coastal recreation, beaches, wildlife observation, hiking, biking, water sports, nature preservation
Main Sections / AreasLake Erie beaches, lagoons, Erie Harbor, Presque Isle Bay, Gull Point, picnic areas, nature trails, visitor center
Famous AttractionsBeaches (Gull Point, Central Beach), Presque Isle Lighthouse, birdwatching (migratory birds), kayaking, sailing, biking and hiking trails
Annual VisitorsApprox. 4–5 million visitors
Entry Fee TypePaid Vehicle Day-Use Fee; pedestrian/bicycle access free
Ticket Price RangeVehicle day-use: ~$8–$15; seasonal passes and special programs vary
Ticket OptionsVehicle day-use pass, seasonal annual pass, guided nature tours, fishing, kayaking, and educational programs
Best Time to VisitLate spring–early fall (May–September) for beach activities, hiking, and boating; migratory bird viewing in spring and fall
Nearby AirportErie International Airport (ERI) – ~10 miles (16 km)
TransportationCar via Peninsula Drive, walking/hiking trails, biking paths, kayak and boat access, shuttle services during summer season
Official Websitehttps://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PresqueIsleStatePark/

Distances from Presque Isle State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Erie, PA Downtown – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Erie Maritime Museum – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Bayfront Convention Center – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Waterworks Park – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Lake Erie – 0 km (0 mi)
  • North Pier Lighthouse – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Glenwood Park – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Presque Isle Lighthouse – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Frontier Park – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Warner Theatre – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Erie Zoo – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Millcreek Mall – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Asbury Woods Nature Center – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Tom Ridge Environmental Center – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Bayfront Parkway – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Erie Insurance Arena – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Presque Isle State Park Campground – 0 km (0 mi)
  • East Pier Lighthouse – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Beach 10 – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Beach 11 – 1 km (0.6 mi)