The South Fork Dam failed on Friday, May 31, 1889, and unleashed 20,000,000 tons of water that devastated Johnstown, PA. The flood killed 2,209 people but it brought the nation and the world together to aid the "Johnstown sufferers." The story of the Johnstown Flood reminds us all, "...that we must leave nothing undone…
The South Fork Dam failed on Friday, May 31, 1889, and unleashed 20,000,000 tons of water that devastated Johnstown, PA. The flood killed 2,209 people but it brought the nation and the world together to aid the "Johnstown sufferers." The story of the Johnstown Flood reminds us all, "...that we must leave nothing undone for the preservation and protection of our brother men."
Photos
The Carriage Road Nature Trail can be accessed from the picnic area or near the South Abutment. — NPSThe portalettes near the picnic area. — NPSA Walk Through the Ruins starts near the South Abutment. — NPSVisitor Center theater shows the park film "Black Friday" at :15 past the hour. — NPSThe Visitor Center bookstore has many items available for purchase. — NPSLake View House — NPSSouth Fork Fishing and Hunting Club Club House — NPSThe Double Cottage — NPSPark entrance sign — NPSThe Lippincott Cottage — NPSThe remains of the South Fork Dam — NPSThe remains of the South Fork Dam — NPS
How to Get There
Take US Route 219 to the St Michael/Sidman exit. At the end of the exit ramp head East on PA 869 (there is a park sign at the end of the exit ramp). Travel approximately 1.5 miles on PA 869 watching for a left turn onto Lake Road at the sign for Johnstown Flood National Memorial. Follow Lake Road 1.5 miles until the visitor center appears on your right. Please park safely in the designated parking lot and not block any emergency access roads.
Plan Your Visit to Johnstown Flood National Memorial
Heading to Johnstown Flood National Memorial? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Johnstown Flood National Memorial?
No central reservation system listed for Johnstown Flood National Memorial. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2780) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Johnstown Flood National Memorial?
Take US Route 219 to the St Michael/Sidman exit. At the end of the exit ramp head East on PA 869 (there is a park sign at the end of the exit ramp). Travel approximately 1.5 miles on PA 869 watching for a left turn onto Lake Road at the sign for Johnstown Flood National Memorial. Follow Lake Road 1.5 miles until the visitor center appears on your right. Please park safely in the designated parking…
How do I contact Johnstown Flood National Memorial?
You can reach the park at phone: (814) 886-6171 or email: [email protected].