Field notes
Best glamping in the Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos are northeastern Pennsylvania’s forested mountain region — lakes, waterfalls, and ridgelines within an easy drive of two huge metro areas. It’s one of the most accessible glamping regions in the Northeast.
The Delaware Water Gap & eastern Poconos
The dramatic eastern edge — the Delaware River carving a deep gap through the ridge, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and waterfalls (Bushkill, Dingmans). Cabin and A-frame glamping near the river and trails.
Browse the Delaware Water Gap →
The Pocono lakes (Lake Wallenpaupack, the Hawley area)
The water heart — Lake Wallenpaupack is the big one, with a long shoreline and a boating culture. Cabin and lakeside glamping for a swim-and-paddle summer trip.
The central Poconos (Mount Pocono, the resort belt)
The traditional resort country — the historic Pocono getaway region, near ski areas and family attractions. Cabin glamping with everything close.
The northern tier & Endless Mountains
Beyond the Poconos proper, the quieter Endless Mountains roll north — a less-developed extension with cabin and yurt glamping for travelers wanting more solitude.
Browse the Endless Mountains →
Format breakdown
Cabins — dominant across the region.
A-frames — strong near the ski areas and the Water Gap.
Yurts — scattered, more common in the quieter northern tier.
Treehouses + domes — a small but growing cluster.
When to go
| Window | What it’s like |
|---|---|
| May–June | Green, mild, waterfalls full from spring runoff |
| July–Aug | Warm, peak lake season, busiest |
| Sept–Oct | Foliage; excellent and very popular |
| Nov–March | Ski-country winter glamping |
What to know
- The Poconos’ biggest asset is proximity — under two hours from NYC or Philadelphia makes it a true weekend escape with minimal drive time.
- Waterfalls are best in spring (snowmelt and rain) and after summer storms; late-summer flow can be thin.
- Lake Wallenpaupack weekends in July and August are busy on the water — quieter coves exist if you ask the property.
- October foliage is excellent and well-known; reserve ahead for peak weekends.
- The region has a deep family-resort history; cabin glamping here is genuinely family-friendly.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Poconos?
Northeastern Pennsylvania — a region of forested mountains, lakes, and waterfalls roughly between the Delaware River and Scranton, within 90 minutes to two hours of both New York City and Philadelphia.
Best season?
May–October, with strong October foliage. Winter glamping near the ski areas is also a real option.
Is it good for families?
Very — the Poconos have a long family-resort tradition, plus waterfalls, lakes, and easy hikes. Cabin glamping suits family trips well.