Top Family-Friendly Resorts in the Poconos for Your Next Vacation

When my family and I decided to take a getaway, we knew we needed a destination that would cater to everyone’s needs—from young kids to adults looking for some relaxation. After some research, we found the Poconos, and let me tell you, it turned out to be the perfect choice! The Poconos in Pennsylvania offers a variety of family-friendly resorts, each offering something unique. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and insights on the best family-friendly resorts in the Poconos and what makes each one stand out.

1. The Best Time to Visit Poconos Family Resorts

One of the first questions we had was when would be the best time to visit. The Poconos is a year-round destination, and depending on the season, different resorts offer distinct experiences. After much thought, we decided to visit in the summer, and the weather was perfect for outdoor activities.

For those of you considering a trip, here's a breakdown of what to expect by season:

Spring and Summer: Perfect for hiking, swimming, and outdoor adventures. The lush green scenery provides an amazing backdrop for family-friendly activities.
Fall: Expect beautiful foliage and scenic drives. This is also a great time for apple picking and enjoying the harvest season.
Winter: The Poconos is well-known for its ski resorts. If your family enjoys winter sports, this is the best time to visit!

2. A Great Family-Friendly Resort: Great Wolf Lodge

When it comes to family fun, the Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos is hard to beat. Our family spent three unforgettable nights there, and it’s an experience I highly recommend. The resort offers a water park that’s perfect for all ages. My kids, ages 6 and 9, loved the water slides and wave pool, while I enjoyed the lazy river and hot tub. The best part? There are plenty of options for kids to enjoy and for parents to unwind.

Great Wolf Lodge isn’t just about the water park. The resort also features:

Family suites: Spacious and comfortable, designed to make you feel at home.
Character appearances: My kids loved meeting the Great Wolf Lodge mascots and taking pictures with them.
Kids’ activities: From arts and crafts to interactive storytime, there’s always something for the little ones to do.
On-site dining: Plenty of dining options that cater to families with young children.

3. Camelback Resort: The Ultimate Adventure

If your family is the adventurous type, Camelback Resort is the place to be. This resort has it all, from an indoor water park to ski slopes and a mountain coaster. We went during the winter and had the best time skiing and snowboarding. Even if you’re not into winter sports, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.

At Camelback, there’s a little something for everyone:

Indoor waterpark: One of the largest indoor waterparks in the country, with water slides, wave pools, and more.
Skiing and Snowboarding: The ski slopes are family-friendly, and there are lessons for beginners.
Mountain Coaster: A thrilling ride down the mountain that’s perfect for families with older children.
Arcade and gaming: A fun way to end the day after a busy adventure.

What sets Camelback apart is its diverse range of activities. You can start your day skiing, spend the afternoon at the waterpark, and finish the night at the arcade. It’s a non-stop adventure for the whole family!

4. Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort: A Relaxing Getaway

For families who want a mix of relaxation and recreation, Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is a great option. Situated along the Delaware River, this resort is perfect for families who enjoy nature and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and canoeing. My family and I spent a peaceful weekend here, and the serene environment was just what we needed to unwind.

Shawnee Inn offers:

Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful surroundings with a hike or bike ride.
Golf: The resort features a family-friendly 27-hole golf course.
On-site spa: While the kids enjoyed outdoor activities, I took the opportunity to relax with a massage.
Canoeing: A perfect way to spend time on the Delaware River.

5. The Poconos is Full of Fun for All Ages

While the resorts I’ve mentioned are fantastic choices, there’s so much more to explore in the Poconos. If your family enjoys outdoor activities, you can go hiking in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, explore the Bushkill Falls (also known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania”), or take a scenic boat tour on Lake Wallenpaupack.

And don’t forget to enjoy the charming small towns in the Poconos. From local farmers' markets to quaint shops, there’s always something new to discover. I found that one of the best parts of our trip was just spending time together as a family and enjoying the peaceful environment the Poconos provides.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed vacation or a relaxing getaway, the Poconos offers the perfect balance for families. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

If you're planning your trip to the Poconos and need help finding the best family-friendly resorts, check out Tengerszem Hotels for the perfect recommendations tailored to your family’s needs.