Between Philly And Harrisburg Is Pennsylvania's Former Mine That's Now A Crystal-Clear Lake For Fishing

If you're looking for a unique spot to go fishing in Pennsylvania this summer, look no further than Lake Grubb in Lancaster County. The small lake is an old iron ore mine that eventually filled with pristine water. Fishermen love it because no other activities are allowed in the lake.

In the 19th century, the iron industry was thriving along the Susquehanna River, the longest river on the East Coast of the United States. It was during this time that the Grubb and Haldeman families decided to open a quarry in West Hempfield Township, located along the east bank of the river. The quarry was so successful that the pit continually expanded, with iron furnaces built near the river. The boom lasted until the early 20th century, and the iron mine closed in 1910.

Before the quarry closed, miners struck an underground spring beneath the iron pit. When the hole was deserted, it filled with crystal-clear water, forming a 13-acre lake. Lake Grubb turned into a private club in the 1930s, which was active until 1955. The nearby borough of Mountville began overseeing the property in 1955, using the lake as a water source up until 2000. It wasn't until 2003 that the lake would reopen to the public. Now known as Lake Grubb Nature Park, a 54-acre wooded park around the lake, followed three years later. Lake Grubb has firmly established itself as a Pennsylvania gem located between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Learn more about why this park complements fun, family-friendly outings in or around Philadelphia, as well as visits to Harrisburg's scenic, walkable, and recreational City Island.

Lake Grubb is now a popular fishing hole. Since no boats are allowed on this small lake, you'll have to fish from the edge of the water. Well-placed benches at the property provide perfect spots to do so. Once you've found a good position, you can cast for fish like black crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass year-round. However, largemouth bass have a strict catch-and-release policy from the second Saturday of April to the second Saturday of June. Those 16 or older must obtain a license from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in advance to fish here. Fishing license exemptions include "Fish For Free Days" on the final Sunday in May and July 4 every year, and Pennsylvania residents on leave from active military duty outside the state.

When you're done fishing, you can also go for a peaceful hike around Lake Grubb. The Lake Grubb Loop is an easy, 1.3-mile trail circling the water's edge. One Google reviewer calls it a "nice gravel nature trail through the woods." Keep an eye out for turtles along the tree-covered trail, and note that pets, with the exception of service dogs, are prohibited.

The closest airport to Lake Grubb is conveniently only 13 miles away in Lancaster, one of Pennsylvania's most peaceful places to live. You can only fly to its small Lancaster Airport (LNS) from Chicago and Orlando, though. For more nonstop flight options, you should check out Harrisburg, the capital of the Keystone State. Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), where flights from 17 cities land, is only 24 miles from Lake Grubb. Plus, while visiting Lake Grubb, you shouldn't miss Susquehanna Riverlands State Park, a lovely state park escape for hiking trails and scenic views that's just 12 miles away.