Welcome to Pocono Lake, Pennslyvania’s Great Retreat
When brainstorming your next vacation, consider the beautiful Pocono Lake area in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, this picturesque destination offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and is the perfect place to hike, fish, boat, or relax and rejuvenate in beautiful surroundings.
While many annual events and festivals occur throughout the year, you’ll also find abundant fun recreational activities, fine dining options, and outdoor pursuits that cater to the entire family.
When selecting your Pocono Lake vacation rental, it’s essential to consider the type of accommodation, amenities, and nearby facilities that best suit your needs. The area provides various options, from lakefront properties with direct access to water activities to secluded woodland cabins perfect for a tranquil escape. Sounds good to you? All that’s left to do now is book!
Top 3 Facts About Pocono Lake in Pennsylvania
01
Natural Ice Harvesting History
Pocono Lake has a rich history in natural ice harvesting, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Before modern refrigeration, large blocks of ice were cut from the lake during winter and stored in ice houses for use throughout the year.
02
Waterfall Haven
The Pocono Mountains are home to numerous waterfalls, including the famous Bushkill Falls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.
Must-See Attractions
Asa Packer Mansion Museum
Speciality Museum
Step back in time with a visit to the Asa Packer Mansion Museum. This National Historic Landmark, built in 1861, showcases the life and legacy of Asa Packer, a significant figure in Pennsylvania’s history. With its unique Italianate architecture, including a red-ribbed tin roof and a central cupola, the mansion offers an in-depth look into the 19th century.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Scenic Excursion
For a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a delightful experience. Located in the same region as the Asa Packer Mansion, this railway offers a scenic ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Pocono Mountains. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s rich history and enjoy the breathtaking views without having to don your hiking boots.
Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark
Family-friendly Activity
When it’s time to cool off, Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark offers a fun-filled day for the whole family. As Pennsylvania’s biggest outdoor waterpark, Camelbeach boasts over 37 slides, rides, and attractions. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping slides or prefer to relax by the poolside, this waterpark caters to all ages and preferences, making it an ideal spot for a summer day out. The park also features amenities like cabanas and lounge chairs for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Annual Events and Festivals
June 22 – 23, 2024
Great Tastes of Pennsylvania Wine and Food Festival
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Pennsylvania at the Great Tastes of Pennsylvania Wine and Food Festival, taking place at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony on June 22nd and 23rd, 2024. This vibrant outdoor event celebrates the state’s rich culinary and winemaking traditions, featuring over 30 Pennsylvania wineries, a beer tent, and a variety of food and craft vendors. Along with wine tastings and delicious food, enjoy live music, participate in grape-stomping and corn-eating contests, and explore unique artisan products.
July 15 – 27, 2024
Pocono Mountains Music Festival
Experience a diverse array of musical performances at the Pocono Mountains Music Festival. Founded in 2009, this festival showcases a range of talents, from seasoned artists to rising stars, across genres like cabaret, opera, jazz, and pop. Besides entertaining, this festival also features a two-week intensive program for young aspiring artists.
August 2 – 10, 2024
162nd Annual Wayne County Fair
The Wayne County Fair is where farm meets food and fun! The fair attracts 100,000 people each summer and is a highlight for families. Going to the Wayne County Fair is a family tradition many hold dear, participating in competitions, 4H games and activities, and so much more. Take a spin on the midway or eat some amazing food with your family.
Top Hiking Trails
Bushkill Falls
138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324,
Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls offers a breathtaking nature experience in the Pocono Mountains. This hike provides a unique opportunity to view eight stunning waterfalls, with trails catering to various hiker levels. The Green Trail is the easiest and quickest, taking about 15 minutes to view the Main Falls, while the Red Trail is the most challenging, spanning almost 2 miles and covering all eight falls in over 2 hours.
Wallenpaupack Lake Trail
102 PA-507, Hawley, PA 18428
This gentle, three-mile path along Lake Wallenpaupack is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The trail, featuring a packed gravel path, offers serene views of the lake and surrounding nature. For those looking to extend their hike, the Wallenpaupack Creek Trail adds an additional 1.2 miles of easy walking, ideal for wildlife viewing. This trail system is a great way to experience the peaceful ambiance of the Poconos’ largest lake.
Cliff Trail and Milford Knob
1978 18324, River Rd, Milford, PA 18337,
Located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area near Milford, this trail provides a moderate to challenging hike. The Cliff Trail, beginning near the impressive Raymondskill Falls, offers stunning views of the Delaware River valley. For those seeking a more strenuous hike, opt to hike to Milford Knob for a well worthwhile scenic overlook. The entire trail system spans about 9 miles, offering a variety of scenery and challenges for hikers.
Best Golf Courses
Country Club of the Poconos
1445 Big Ridge Dr, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
Located in East Stroudsburg, this golf course offers 18 holes of championship golf amidst the stunning scenery of the Pocono Mountains. Designed by Jim Fazio, it features a par-70 course that stretches over 5,968 yards. Golfers can expect a challenging round with elements like wetlands, hills, elevated greens, and strategically placed sand traps, all set against the backdrop of the Allegheny Plateau and Pocono Mountain foothills.
Pocono Manor
395 Manor Dr, Pocono Manor, PA 18349
This 18-hole golf course, crafted by renowned architects William Flynn and Donald Ross, offers a unique golfing experience with its expansive layout and old-school charm. Golfers can enjoy quirky par-3 holes and practice on a three-hole loop next to the range. The course, having hosted golf legends like Arnold Palmer and Sam Snead, features a clubhouse where players can relax and soak in the history and scenic beauty of the area.
Pocono Farms Country Club
182 Lake Rd, Tobyhanna, PA 18466
For a slice of luxury – Pocono Farms is an Art Wall Jr.-designed championship golf course that offers a top-notch experience. You can look forward to playing past Glacier Lake and through mountain woodlands to well-manicured and contoured greens. In addition to golf, the club provides amenities like dining areas, an Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center.
Water Sports
Fishing
The Pocono Mountains region is an angler’s paradise, featuring a diverse array of fishing spots across its beautiful lakes, scenic rivers, and tranquil ponds. The area is home to various fish species, including trout, bass, pickerel, walleye, and stripers. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the sport from the shores or by boat, with the region offering prime conditions for both family outings and solitary fishing excursions. The region’s lakes and rivers are suitable for anglers of all skill levels, promising a rewarding experience whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman.
Water Skiing and Wakeboarding
If you’re seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, water skiing and wakeboarding are excellent choices on the Pocono lakes. Several marinas in the area offer lessons and equipment rentals for these sports. These activities are perfect for adventure seekers looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Poconos while engaging in exciting water sports.
Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding is a fantastic way to explore the Poconos lakes while also getting a good workout. SUP is growing in popularity due to its accessibility and the unique perspective it offers on the serene lake environments. Many marinas around the lakes provide rental services for SUP boards, making it easy for you to try out this enjoyable and relaxing water sport.
Winter Activities
Snow Tubing
The Pocono Mountains boast the country’s two largest snow tubing parks, offering a thrilling experience for all ages. Camelback Mountain features 42 lanes and offers an exciting galactic tubing experience after dark, illuminated by an LED light show. Another great option is Blue Mountain Resort, which has 52 lanes and 1,000 feet of tubing fun, complete with a sonic tubing experience featuring lights and music. These parks provide conveyor lifts for easy access to the top of the hill, ensuring continuous fun without the exhausting climb.
Cross-Country Skiing
For a serene winter experience, cross-country skiing in the Poconos is a great option. This activity allows you to glide over miles of groomed trails and open fields in the area parks, offering a wonderful way to enjoy the picturesque landscape. The trails in the Poconos cater to various skill levels, ensuring everyone, from first-timers to expert skiers, can enjoy the experience.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity, and in the Poconos, you have the opportunity to skate on frozen lakes in various parks. Promised Land State Park and Tobyhanna State Park are popular destinations for ice skating enthusiasts. It’s essential to check the weather and ice conditions beforehand to ensure safety.
Where to Eat
Jubilee Restaurant
$ – $$ • Classic American
B-Lux Grill & Bar
$ – $$ • Burgeres & Shakes
Murph’s Hideaway
$ – $$ • Classic American
Where to Shop
Made By Scratch Crafts
Gift Shop
Gam-ma’s Country Corner
General Store
Pocono Mountain Provisions
General Store
Where to Sleep
Tips on Renting a Vacation Home on Pocono Lake
Seasonal Activities
Pocono Lake is a year-round destination, offering a variety of activities depending on the season. During the summer, enjoy water sports like boating and fishing, while winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowmobiling. Ensure the rental you choose is suitable for the activities you plan to enjoy.
Rental Amenities and Design
Look for rentals that offer amenities aligning with your needs. Many properties feature large decks with beautiful lake views, hot tubs, and game rooms. The design of the rental can also enhance your experience, with large windows for scenic views and spacious living areas for comfort.
Community Amenities
Some vacation rentals provide access to community facilities such as swimming pools, basketball courts, and tennis courts. These added amenities can be a bonus for families and groups seeking diverse activities.
Budget and Seasonality
Rental rates can vary depending on the time of year. Booking during off-peak seasons like spring and fall might offer more competitive pricing. However, ensure that the seasonal activities you are interested in are available during these times.
Going Deeper on Pocono Lake: How the Region Evolved Through Time
After World War II, the Pocono Mountains, including Pocono Lake, became a romantic destination for many returning GIs and their partners, leading to the area’s emergence as a honeymoon hotspot. The first honeymoon resort, The Farm on the Hill, was established in 1945, paving the way for the growth of the resort industry.
The opening of the Big Boulder Ski Area in 1946 and the introduction of artificial snow-making technology in the 1950s established the region as a major ski destination. Enhanced accessibility with new interstates further popularized the area for family vacations, blending home comforts with resort amenities.
The 1960s brought further fame with the introduction of the heart-shaped tub at Caesars Cove Haven in Lakeville, cementing the Pocono Mountains’ reputation as the “Honeymoon Capital of the World.” The opening of the Pocono International Raceway, now Pocono Raceway, in the 1970s brought major racing events to the area.
The 1980s saw the diversification of activities, expanding the region’s appeal beyond honeymooners and skiers. However, the 1990s marked a transition period, with some resorts closing and others upgrading to meet changing tourist preferences, illustrating the region’s ability to adapt and evolve as a tourist destination.
Fast forward to today, after a pause to reinvest and reinvent, the Poconos have transformed into a vibrant tourist destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pocono Lake
Several family-friendly communities in the Poconos offer a broad selection of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages and abilities. The most popular options include Lake Harmony, Pocono Lake, and Tobyhanna. These communities offer easy access to various attractions, including water parks, hiking trails, and ski resorts, ensuring a memorable vacation experience for your entire family.
Muskoka is known for its picturesque towns and charming villages. Some popular towns you can visit include Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, and Port Carling. Each town offers its unique attractions, shops, and restaurants, making them perfect stopovers during your exploration of the Muskoka region.
You can find lakefront vacation rentals in the Poconos in areas like Pocono Lake and Lake Harmony. You can search for these rentals on various platforms like Vrbo, Evolve, Lake, and TripAdvisor. These websites provide many lakefront rental options, including cabins, houses, and condos, with various amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, and more.
In the Poconos, there are numerous lakes suitable for swimming. One of them is Pocono Lake, where swimming is allowed, although wearing swim shoes is recommended due to the rocky terrain. Remember to check local guidelines and restrictions before taking a dip in any lake, as not all permit swimming.
During your Pocono Lake vacation, you’ll have access to various activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. In addition, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and relaxing in nature. If you enjoy fishing, you can obtain a license from the local Walmart for catch-and-release fishing in the area of lakes.
The cost of renting a cabin in the Poconos varies depending on location, time of year, and amenities. However, there are options to accommodate different budgets, with prices often ranging from $150 to $500 per night for a cabin rental. Search multiple platforms and compare prices to find the best deal for your desired amenities and location.
To book a last-minute rental in the Poconos, check popular vacation rental platforms like Vrbo, Evolve, and TripAdvisor for availability. These websites usually have search filters allowing you to find properties on short notice. Remember that you may need to be flexible with your preferred location and amenities due to limited options at the last minute.