(WHTM) \u2013 Swimming has returned in time for the July 4 weekend at a popular Pennsylvania State Park.<\/p>\n
Gifford Pinchot State Park announced that swimming activities at Quaker Race Day Use Area resumed on July 2 at noon.<\/p>\n
The water remained open for boating and fishing, but was closed to swimmers<\/a> due to an elevated E. coli count detected through water testing.<\/p>\n The park says additional water samples collected on July 1 showed bacteria counts \u201cwell below the acceptable threshold,\u201d allowing for a sign-off from the Department of Health.<\/p>\n Last summer<\/a> the beach was also briefly closed due to elevated bacteria in the water.<\/p>\n Located in Lewisberry, Gifford Pinchot State Park<\/a> offers 14 seasonal activities including boating, fishing, and swimming. The park offers a smoke-free beach with nearby picnic facilities, a children\u2019s play area, and boat rentals.<\/p>\n The Quaker Race Day Use Area is open until mid-September 8 a.m. until sunset. Boating is available for the 340 acre Pinchot Lake<\/a> with three launches available 24 hours a day.<\/p>\n The park\u2019s campgrounds will close next year for major renovations<\/a> that will continue through 2029.<\/p>\n The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced in 2025 that Gifford Pinchot State Park will receive $8 million worth of upgrades, including a new shower house and restroom facilities.<\/p>\n Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.<\/p>\n