Damsite and Spillway Recreation Area

Authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1938, Crooked Creek Lake is one of 16 flood control projects in the Pittsburgh District. An important link in a system of flood control projects, Crooked Creek provides flood protection for the lower Allegheny and Ohio rivers. The construction cost of over $4 million appears small when compared to the giant savings which have resulted: since its completion in 1940, the project has prevented flood damages estimated to be in excess of $548 million. Crooked Creek also stores water and releases it downstream during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, navigation, recreation, aesthetics and aquatic life. The lake and its miles of scenic shoreline provide unlimited opportunities for water-based recreation. A boat launch with ample trailer parking is available for boating and waterskiing enthusiasts. Swimmers and sunbathers will especially appreciate the lake's sandy, peninsula beach. The great variety and abundance of fish found in the lake have lured many fishermen to its waters, and Crooked Creek Lake has yielded many fine catches of bass, muskie, sunfish and crappie. Picnicking is well liked here; several picnic areas maintained by the Corps are provided with tables and charcoal grills, and there are six picnic shelters with picnic tables and grills. Both Constitution and Freedom Pavilion are located in the Spillway Recreation Area, which features a playground (closest to Constitution), two volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a basketball court and a ball field. Between the pavilions is a restroom facility with flush toilets and running water. Nestled among the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania and located only 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Crooked Creek Lake is an ideal setting for year round outdoor activities. The long distance hiker will enjoy the 141-mile Baker Trail, which crosses Crooked Creek Lake on its course through western Pennsylvania. The Crooked Creek Environmental Learning Center, operated by the Armstrong Center for Community Learning, is used by groups and agencies interested in environmental stewardship and offers a variety of educational programs.