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    Speedwell Forge Lake

    Located in Lancaster County, Speedwell Forge Lake is a 106-acre impoundment owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and managed by the Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) for public fishing and boating. The commonwealth acquired the property in 1963, the dam was constructed in 1966. The Commission's Southeast Region office (law enforcement, education, maintenance) is located at the lake.

    View on Interactive Map

    Speedwell Forge is a popular destination for un-powered boat (mainly canoes and kayaks) users looking for a peaceful place to watch wildlife, exercise, or just to enjoy some time on the water. A pavilion with picnic tables is available by the lake. Portable restrooms are available seasonally.

    Fishing

    The Commission historically has stocked the lake with Channel Catfish fingerling.

    A fishing pier for persons with disabilities is scheduled to be built in the Fall of 2017. Access for shore fishing is good. Numerous habitat improvement structures are present in the lake as a result of PFBC/sportsmen cooperation.

    Trout are stocked in Hammer Creek immediately downstream from the lake, part of that stretch is on Commission property.

    Fish habitat structures have been placed in the lake (view PDF map) over the years as part of the Commission's Fish Habitat Improvement Program.

    Boating

    Boating is limited to unpowered boats and boats powered by electric motors. Boats with electric motors are limited to slow, no wake speed. All boats with motors must be registered. All unpowered boats must be registered or display a current launch permit.  Innertubes and swim aids are not permitted.

    Three launch ramps are available along with associated parking facilities.

    Overnight mooring of unpowered boats is permitted only for boats that display a current registration.  Unpowered boats may be moored from March 1 through November 30 at designated areas. Launch permits do not allow mooring privileges.

    General Information Related to PFBC Lakes