Spend quality time in the peaceful Endless Mountains.

 

Two men and a boy jump off a dock into a lake
New Milford, PA. Photo by Sharon Pagodin.

 

Unplug the electronics, escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and make memories as a family in the Endless Mountains. This is the kind of place where you can still make s’mores around a campfire, catch fireflies on a summer night, or take a swim in the lake. Good, old-fashioned family fun can bring everyone together, from the tiniest tots all the way to the grandparents.

Families love the Endless Mountains because we offer the quiet, laidback feeling of the country without being totally “off the grid.” Located just north of Scranton, the region is less than half a day’s drive from Philadelphia and New York City. You’ll find plenty of family-oriented campgrounds and hotels, while vacation rentals provide a home away from home.

 

A woman and two babies play in the water at Lake Jean
Ricketts Glen State Park, Sullivan County, PA. Photo by Sharon Dulaney.

 

Harry Strausser, owner of Woodland Pines Vacation Rental in Laporte, has welcomed countless guests to his properties over the years. His visitors are always amazed by the region’s serenity and natural beauty.

“A lot of people have commented that they couldn’t believe how quiet it was. It’s just completely silent—no noise from the street,” he explained. “And we have the dark nights. When you don’t have the intrusion of artificial light, you see the black sky filled with stars. It’s great.”

Strausser recalled hosting a family that included three generations. The grandparents, their adult children, their grandchildren, and the family dogs all came to Thorne Haven at Laporte for a summer getaway.

“The grandparents were rocking on the swing, and they watched their grown kids that were out in the pond. One was throwing a baseball to the grandson. A couple of the kids were swimming,” remembered Strausser. “They were just reconnecting and having fun together. That, I think, is what it’s all about. That’s what our region in the Endless Mountains will do for people.”

 

A girl fishes in Tunkhannock Creek
South Branch Tunkhannock Creek. Photo by Patrick Tully.

 

The Endless Mountains offer plenty of activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Easy hikes and nature walks are the perfect way to explore the outdoors with young children or grandparents. Take a trip to a u-pick farm or join the fun at a local festival. And no matter what age, everyone loves a lazy day by the lake or a relaxing by the river.

“I think that people need to explore,” said Strausser. “Just hop in your car, take a long drive, and see what we have to offer.”

Life in the Endless Mountains is about slowing down and enjoying the ride. Gather up the family and get off the beaten path. Some of life’s best memories might just be waiting around the corner.

 

Featured photo (top) by Erika Bruckner.

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