Allegheny River

Named “La Belle Riviere” by French Explorers, the 325-mile Allegheny River is a spectacular waterway that cuts through Armstrong County. What was once used for transportation between Western Pennsylvania and New York is now a scenic waterway enjoyed by recreational boaters, paddlers, and fishermen. The Allegheny River is a scenic and popular waterway for both recreational boaters and seasoned sportsmen. Along the Allegheny, you’ll find great fishing opportunities. There are 47 different varieties of fish, including smallmouth bass, walleye, musky, and catfish! Whether fishing from a secluded bank or from the bows of their boats, anglers are sure to find plenty of exciting fishing action on the Allegheny. It’s also used for water skiing, swimming, and tubing — launch from any of our public launches or become a member of one of the private marinas to get in on all the action.

Crooked Creek Lake

Nestled among the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania, Crooked Creek Lake is an ideal setting for year-round outdoor activities. Located only 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to discover the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding countryside at the Crooked Creek project. Visitors will also find they can pursue a variety of outdoor activities at the project with its numerous well-maintained facilities available for their enjoyment. For those who enjoy the outdoors, a visit to Crooked Creek can be a rewarding experience. The lake and its miles of scenic shoreline provide unlimited opportunities for water-based recreation. A boat launch with ample trailer parking is available for boating and water-skiing enthusiasts. Swimmers and sunbathers will especially appreciate the lake’s sandy, peninsula beach. The great variety and abundance of fish found in the lake have lured many fishermen to its waters. Crooked Creek Lake has yielded many fine catches of bass, musky, sunfish, and crappie. There are also six centrally located picnic areas maintained by the Corps that provide picnic tables and charcoal grills.

Keystone Lake

As the largest lake in Armstrong County, Keystone Lake covers 850 acres and stretches 5.5 miles. While the deepest part of the lake is 90 feet deep, the lake also features shallows and wetlands. Owned and operated by Reliant Energy as a cooling water supply for Keystone Power Plant, the lake and surrounding area are open for public use. The area is controlled by the PA Fish & Boat Commission, which means all of their rules and regulations are in effect. Swimming is prohibited, but boats up to 20 HP are permitted.

The lake has two formal boat launches with large parking areas: NuMine (north shore) off of Route 85 at White Oak Road and Atwood (south shore) off of Route 210 in the borough of Atwood. There are also several primitive access areas around the lake.

Keystone Lake provides an excellent warm water fishery with large and smallmouth bass, walleye, musky, perch, crappies, bluegills, sunfish, pumpkin heads, and trout (stocked). As a trophy bass lake, several professional tournaments have been held here.

Several thousand acres surrounding the lake are open to hunting, where PA Game Commission laws and regulations apply. When winter weather conditions permit it, the lake is also a wonderful place for ice fishing.

  • Atwood Boat Launch
    2100 PA-210
    Rural Valley, PA 16249

  • NuMine Boat Launch
    T690 @ Keystone Lake
    Rural Valley, PA 16249

Kiskiminetas River

The Kiskiminetas River — known locally as the Kiski — is a 27-mile long tributary of the Allegheny River that forms the southern border of Armstrong County. It is a popular destination for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. As part of the former Pennsylvania Main Line Canal, visitors can also find historical sites along the shore dating back to the early 1800s.

Mahoning Creek Lake & Dam

Mahoning Creek Lake is a peaceful and relaxing place for outdoor recreation, as it is limited to 10 horsepower and does not permit swimming. The lake has a varied fish population, including trophy-sized pike, walleye, muskie, channel catfish, crappie, and bass. Located near the dam is a shaded picnic area with restrooms, grills, picnic tables, a playground, and walking trails. You can schedule a tour of Mahoning Dam by calling 814-257-8811.