Tucked away in the picturesque Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, Camelback Lodge is a haven for families seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Located just 90 minutes from the concrete jungle that is NYC, Pennsylvania beckons with its enchanting tapestry of landscapes, where rolling hills, verdant forests, and charming rural vistas paint a picture of natural beauty. It’s a realm celebrated for its idyllic countryside, storied historic towns, and the breath-taking allure of the Poconos where you’ll find Camelback.
This modern mountain hotel boasts a staggering 453 spacious guest suites so it is a huge property. With its recent development in 2021, Camelback Lodge has breathed new life into its accommodations, now featuring vibrant pops of mountain-inspired blue, rustic furnishings, and authentic Pocono nature scenes that adorn the walls.
Accommodation
With a focus on family, there are a wide variety of room types to suit every arrangement. From Double Queen Suites with space for up to six guests to the King or Queen Bunk Suite, perfect for larger families with kids, there’s a room for everyone. The bunk beds in these suites even come in a separate area with a dedicated TV for added convenience.
For those seeking more privacy, the One-Bedroom Suites are an excellent choice, accommodating up to six guests. The One-Bedroom Family Suite takes it a step further, with room for up to eight, ensuring everyone has their own space. Two-Bedroom Suites, Lofts, and Condos offer even more flexibility, with layouts accommodating six to thirteen guests, perfect for extended families or larger groups of friends.
For the ultimate in spaciousness, the Three-Bedroom Condos and Lofts can host eight to 14 guests comfortably, making them a great option for multi-generational trips. These condos offer multiple bathrooms, a full-sized kitchen, and ample living space for everyone to relax and unwind.
Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including large flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet access, and convenient kitchen facilities.
Waterpark Madness
In what can only be described as a cross between Alton Towers’ Splash Landings and Center Parcs, stepping into Aquatopia was like entering a tropical paradise. Recently voted USA Today’s #1 Indoor Waterpark, it is clear to see why!
The balmy, 84-degree temperature inside the glass dome makes for a year-round summer whatever the season. Featuring 14 slides, there are a mix of tube slides, body slides, bowls and aqua launch slides. If you ask the kids, the highlight was the Venus Slydetrap, a group raft ride that combine big twists and turns with a large round bowl, the ultimate adrenaline rush. Also included is the Wave Rider, a must try for any surf enthusiasts!
For those with little ones, the water play areas are a big hit. The toddler-friendly Splash Pad and the multi-level Tree Tops play structure keep the kids entertained for hours.
For a break away from the craziness of Aquatopia, we recommend hiring one of the plethora of cabanas. Providing a private luxury space, you’re treated to a world of comfort and convenience making the day stress-free. With plush seating, fans, fridges, and attentive cabana hosts, it is the ultimate in pampering while enjoying a tasty fruit and yogurt platter.
One thing that truly impressed me was the emphasis on cleanliness and safety. The staff were diligent about maintaining a clean environment, and it was a welcoming space to spend a full day.
Amazing as it is, Aquatopia isn’t the only water park. While it meets the year-round needs indoors, throughout the summer months, guests can enjoy CamelBeach outdoor water park on site featuring lots more thrills aplenty with slides, wave pools and lazy rivers carved into the mountain.
Activity
Beyond the water parks, the resort offers a plethora of entertainment options, both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, guests can immerse themselves in an array of activities at Arcadia Adventures, such as conquering a rock-climbing wall, navigating a challenging ropes course, engaging in exhilarating laser tag battles, and experiencing the wonders of virtual reality. On the lower level, a sprawling arcade awaits, boasting an impressive collection of more than 100 state-of-the-art games. Additionally, for those seeking a creative outlet, Polka Dot Pots provides an opportunity for pottery painting.
Meanwhile the great outdoors provides thrilling adventures like mountain roller coasters and zip lines. These exciting activities not only allow guests to soak in the breath-taking vistas of the Pocono Mountains’ lush green hills but also provide the opportunity to spot local wildlife. During our visit, we were fortunate to observe numerous deer and even caught a glimpse of a baby bear!
During the winter season, the Pocono Hills offer ideal ski slopes suitable for families with beginners and intermediate skiers of all ages. The ski-in/ski-out property adds to the convenience, ensuring easy accessibility for families.
Dining Delights
And after all the fun during the day, there’s a definite need to refuel. Fortunately, Camelback Lodge offers a diverse array of options to satisfy every palate.
Berrelli’s Italian Chophouse was a favourite. The restaurant offers a delightful fusion of traditional Italian flavors with the hearty satisfaction of a classic steakhouse. The warm and inviting ambiance adds a touch of sophistication to the dining experience, making it an ideal choice for a special evening out. Food wise, the expertly grilled steaks are tender and succulent, complemented by a rich selection of global wines that perfectly pair with the meal. Special mention also has to go to the rigatoni alla vodka, a true culinary delight. The pasta is perfectly al dente, and the creamy vodka sauce is rich and indulgent, with just the right hint of tomato and a subtle kick of vodka. And don’t leave without trying the tiramisu – it’s divine!
Meanwhile Hemispheres is a family-friendly restaurant with mountain views, serving up seasonal specials. Trails End Pub & Grille offers ski-in/ski-out dining during the winter and mountainside al fresco options beside the fire pit in the warmer months, perfect for post-adventure relaxation.
Coffee by La Colombe and Graffiti Pizza provide delicious quick bite options, while Mountain Market offers grab-and-go breakfast and snacks.
Camelback Lodge is the epitome of a family-friendly resort in the heart of the Pocono Mountains. With its spacious and thoughtfully designed accommodations, a wide range of amenities, and an excellent range of dining options, it’s the perfect destination for families that are looking for something different.
For more information and to book, visit CamelBack Resort.
