The park was originally known as Halfway Dam State Park because of its location exactly halfway between Lewisburg and Bellefonte.
The dam forming the lake was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1936.
The park's swimming beach is specifically known for its natural sand, a rarity in many mountain state parks.
The park is located at the intersection of the Ridge and Valley physiographic province, creating a distinct geological transition zone.
A monument dedicated to the Civilian Conservation Corps stands within the park to commemorate their role in building the park's infrastructure.
Raymond B. Winter State Park spans 695 acres within the Bald Eagle State Forest in Union County, Pennsylvania. The park is anchored by Halfway Lake, a six-acre man-made lake created by damming Halfway Run. The lake features a unique sand beach and is fed by mountain springs, providing cool waters for summer swimming. The park is historically significant as a site developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. Its landscape is characterized by second-growth forests of oak, hickory, and pine. The park offers over 6.5 miles of hiking trails that lead to scenic vistas and the rugged terrain of the Jacks Mountain ridge. Winter recreational activities include ice fishing and cross-country skiing when conditions permit. The park remains a primary gateway to the extensive trail networks of the surrounding state forest.
The spillway of the dam provides the most iconic view of the lake reflecting the surrounding forest.
Bring water shoes to navigate the sand and gravel transitions around the lake entrance.
Check the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website for water quality alerts before planning a swim.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Rapid Run Trail for a more strenuous forest trek.
Do not attempt to swim in Halfway Run outside of the designated beach area or during posted periods of low water quality.
Swimming beach is seasonal and typically operates from late spring through early autumn; campground is closed during winter months.
Maintain noise levels during quiet hours in camping zones; pack out all trash following Leave No Trace principles.
