Every state carries its own share of eerie folklore, unexplained sightings, and shadowy figures that seem to step out of another reality entirely. And while Tennessee is where we call home now, Pennsylvania—the state we originally came from—holds its own rich history of terrifying legends and cryptid tales! With its dense Appalachian forests, endless caves, and forgotten industrial ruins, the Keystone State is crawling with monsters that have haunted locals for centuries. From small forest apes to water beasts, these are the Top 5 Legendary Monsters of Pennsylvania, legends that make even lifelong residents think twice about wandering too deep into the woods at night.

Not all monsters live in haunted houses! Some swim just under the waves. August 7th — National Sea Serpent Day — is for the beasts we rarely see but never stop imagining. In coves, creeks, lakes, and oceans across North America, long-bodied creatures have stirred panic, awe, and centuries of speculation. Legends aren’t born from nothing — especially not the kind told by sober sailors, stunned sheriffs, and terrified tourists. These are the top 10 North American sea serpent encounters that refused to sink quietly into myth.