Photo by Robert H. Cleveland Jr.

It can be hard to plan a summer vacation to keep the family happy while also making an angler's leisure-time dreams come true. If you're headed to the Keystone State this summer, you needn't worry. There's definitely something for everyone here!

With 83,000 miles of wilderness streams and rivers, 160,000 acres of inland waters and the 470,000-acre Lake Erie, there's no shortage of vacation hotspots for you to consider.

In addition, your family has 17 million acres of forestland to explore. Pennsylvania also has museums and attractions dedicated its rich history of coal mining, transportation, flight, engineering and more.

Add to that the family-friendly campgrounds, the Old Order Amish countryside, kid-pleasing attractions and unique shopping experiences, and everyone is sure to find something to smile about this summer!

THE ALLEGHENIES
North of Maryland in central Pennsylvania, the Allegheny region offers plenty of prime fishing, with a wide variety of fun family activities nearby to please every member of the clan.

Raystown Lake, the state's largest inland lake, produced four of the state's top five striped bass in 2005. The largest tipped the scales at 37 pounds and measured 41 inches long!

For access, take Snyder's Run Road south from U.S. Route 22 in Huntingdon to reach a surfaced ramp, loading dock, shoreline fishing access and ample parking. Or take Seven Points Drive east at Hesston off Route 26, to another launch area with lots of parking and shoreline access.

To reach the Aitch access (and a fishing pier) from Huntingdon, follow Route 26 south to Marklesburg. Turn left onto Aitch Road and follow the signs. Access can also be had from Entriken by taking Route 994 east to James Creek Road.

Or go east on Route 994 from Entriken to reach the Tatman Run access area. The Shy Beaver access area can be reached from Cherrytown on Route 26. The Weavers Falls access is off Route 913 out of Saxton.

For family-friendly lodging, try the Lake Raystown Resort in Entriken. This 221-site campground offers water, electric and cable hookups. Other accommodations include a variety of cabins, cottages, bungalows, the main lodge -- and even houseboat rentals!

The resort has a full-service marina with boat rentals and access for shoreline fishing. Guests can charter Angry Muskie Outfitters for customized fishing packages that include overnight accommodations, Pennsylvania fishing licenses, a fully rigged charter boat, all equipment, lures and bait, assorted meals and admission to resort attractions. They also offer tours by the hour. Call (814) 280-1344 for details.

Other amenities include the Marina Café, the Bistro Express, beaches and volleyball. For additional fees, guests can visit the Wild River Waterpark and Caddy's Revenge, a 19-hole mini-golf. The park has two 380-foot twisting slides, a White Water Innertube Ride, an in-ground heated pool and children's splash-and-play area. Resort guests can also sign on for a scenic cruise aboard the Proud Mary, an old-fashioned showboat with turn-of-the-century charm. For more information, call (814) 658-3500, or visit LakeRaysTownResort.com.