Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation
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{Chambers sunset} Chambers Lake at Chambers Lake is a 90-acre water supply reservoir and regional flood control facility of the Chester County Water Resources Authority. In 1994, the lake was formed by the construction of Hibernia Dam on Birch Run to provide a supplemental source of local drinking water, and needed flood control for the Brandywine Creek watershed. The lake also offers excellent recreational opportunities, especially fishing, boating, hiking and bird watching. In September 1996, the lake was officially dedicated Chambers Lake, in memory of J. Franklin Chambers, the first superintendent of Hibernia County Park. Lake Facts
Fishing is permitted 24 hours a day. The lake is stocked with warm water species, including {Tiger Musky} Panfish, Channel Catfish, Chain Pickerel, and Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass. Chambers is one of only three Pennsylvania lakes that is a Panfish Enhancement Area, which regulates number, quality and size of panfish through minimum length limits. It is also one of a select few in the Big Bass Program. Therefore, the lake is closed to bass fishing from late April to early June. No gasoline powered boats or engines are permitted to be operated on the lake; only electric-powered or self-propelled boats are allowed. All watercraft must be registered with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Swimming and sailing are prohibited. {Chambers Lake in the Fall} Wildlife Watching & Nature Study Bald eagles and osprey are regular visitors, while migratory waterfowl and belted kingfishers are common. The wetlands have attracted egrets, sandpipers, herons, turtles, frogs and an assortment of aquatic insects. The northern end of Chambers Lake and surrounding park area is designated part of a migratory bird sanctuary. It is closed to boating and foot traffic from April 1 to mid-June.
The .67-mile Lake Trail winds from the lawn of Hibernia Mansion to the lake and beyond to public campgrounds. With a slope not exceeding 5%, it is wheelchair accessible. The trail includes two overlooks, an accessible fishing area and trailside benches. The Lake Trail Guide is available in the park office or along the trail. No mountain bikes or horses are permitted. Dogs are permitted on a leash.Walking, fishing, biking and horseback riding on the dam is not permitted.
1. All motorized boats must have a current Pennsylvania boat registration or valid out-of-state registration. Canoes, kayaks, and any other non-motorized boats must display a current launch permit obtained either through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) or a Pennsylvania State Park. For registration information, call the PFBC at 866-262-8734. 2. PFBC boat registration applications can be acquired online at www.fish.state.pa.us. Also download a copy of the PFBC Boating Handbook. Applications can also be obtained at: • Commission Offices • Most Auto Tag Dealers • Many State Park Offices 3. Registration fees* are approximately: $ 18 Unpowered boats $ 26 Boats under 16 feet long $ 39 Boats 16 feet and less than 20 feet long $ 52 Boats longer than 20 feet Information current as of July 2009.
5. Every boat must have a sound-producing device (whistle, horn, etc.), and each occupant must have one wearable personal flotation device (PFD). Throwable seats do not count as flotation devices. Children 12 years and younger must wear a PFD at all times. 6. Boating is permitted 24 hours a day for fishing purposes. Access is provided on the south side of Chambers Lake along Wagontown Road. Please visit www.fish.state.pa.us for updates. Protecting Lake Communities • Keep your dog on a leash. Pick up after your pet. • At home, use fertilizers sparingly, if at all. • Switch to a phosphate-free dishwasher detergent.
Download a copy of the Chambers Lake Brochure.
Content Last Modified on 8/5/2009 11:05:42 AM |
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