The park is situated at the point where the West Branch and North Branch of the Susquehanna River merge.
The adjacent Adam T. Bower Memorial Dam is the world's largest inflatable dam, spanning 2,100 feet across the river.
Lake Augusta, the slackwater pool created by the inflatable dam, is a seasonal feature removed every autumn to allow for river flow.
The marina serves as a central migration stop for various waterfowl during spring and fall.
Shikellamy State Park's Marina Section sits at the confluence of the West Branch and the main Susquehanna River, providing primary access to the 3,000-acre Lake Augusta. The park features a 300-slip marina and a multi-lane boat launch, serving as the regional hub for water-based recreation. It is physically separated from the park's Overlook section, which sits atop the nearby cliffs. The grounds include picnic facilities, a public boat ramp, and expansive riverfront views. The site is a primary launch point for anglers targeting bass, walleye, and musky in the slackwater created by the Adam T. Bower Memorial Dam. Visitors can access paved paths suitable for walking along the water's edge. The park's location allows for sheltered boating due to the inflatable dam's impact on water depth and flow.
The shoreline near the boat launch provides the best perspective of the river confluence and the dam structure.
Check the state park website for the annual schedule of the inflatable dam, as water levels drop significantly once it is deflated for winter.
Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the confluence is a hotspot for local raptors and migratory birds.
The paved areas are flat and accessible, making them ideal for a casual stroll with strollers or wheelchairs.
Do not attempt to swim in the river, as current conditions can change rapidly and the area is not monitored for swimming.
The inflatable dam is seasonal, typically deployed in late spring and removed in early autumn; water levels change drastically outside of this window.
Practice carry-in/carry-out waste management; keep pets on a leash at all times.
