The Poconos region of Pennsylvania is a true haven for families, offering a diverse array of resorts that cater to every kind of adventure seeker. Whether you’re dreaming of thrilling indoor waterparks, serene lakefront escapes, or mountain adventures year-round, finding the perfect Poconos family hotels can make all the difference for your vacation. We’ve compiled our top picks to help you plan an unforgettable trip with your little ones, ensuring comfort, fun, and convenience for everyone.
Our Top Picks: A Deep Dive
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Pocono Mountains
Step into an authentic African-themed wonderland at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, where the vibrant decor, lush landscaping, and captivating artistry transport you far from Pennsylvania. Kalahari offers an energetic and exciting atmosphere, perfect for families seeking non-stop entertainment and adventure. It’s a bustling hub of activity, feeling like a perpetual celebration of fun and relaxation, all under one enormous, climate-controlled roof. The sheer scale of the resort ensures there’s always something new to discover, making it an immersive experience rather than just a place to sleep.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark: Kalahari boasts numerous thrilling slides for older kids and adults, a winding lazy river perfect for all ages, a massive wave pool that brings the ocean to the mountains, and dedicated splash areas meticulously designed for toddlers and younger children.
- Outdoor Waterpark (seasonal): During the warmer months, the fun expands outdoors with additional slides, splash pads, and pools, offering more sunshine and fresh air for families to enjoy.
- Family Entertainment Center: Beyond the water, you’ll find an expansive arcade filled with games, an imaginative mini-golf course, challenging escape rooms for teamwork, and a cutting-edge virtual reality arena, ensuring entertainment options for every age and interest.
- Variety of Dining Options: The resort offers several on-site restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From quick bites and casual cafes to sit-down meals and buffet-style dining, you’ll find convenient options for every family member.
- Spacious Suites: Kalahari understands the need for space when traveling with family. They offer various suite configurations, many featuring separate living areas, multiple bedrooms, and kitchenettes, which are ideal for larger families or those desiring extra comfort.
Good to Know:
Located conveniently off I-380, Kalahari is perfectly positioned close to the Pocono Raceway for motorsports enthusiasts and The Crossings Premium Outlets for some retail therapy. Booking early, especially for weekends or holidays, is essential to secure your preferred dates and room type. Be aware of resort fees, which typically cover waterpark access and other valuable amenities, making it a great choice among Poconos family hotels.
Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains
Great Wolf Lodge offers a magical, whimsical Northwoods adventure right in the heart of the Poconos. With its rustic log cabin aesthetic and charming animal characters, the atmosphere is distinctly family-focused and designed to ignite children’s imaginations. It feels like a playful, enchanted forest retreat, where every corner holds a secret or a new activity. The resort buzzes with happy energy, but also provides cozy nooks for relaxation after a day of thrilling waterpark fun.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- Large Indoor Waterpark: The lodge features an impressive indoor waterpark complete with exhilarating slides, a fantastic wave pool, an interactive multi-level fort with a massive tipping bucket, and zero-entry pools perfectly suitable for toddlers to safely splash and play.
- MagiQuest: This unique interactive live-action game is a huge draw, where kids use magic wands to embark on quests throughout the lodge, solving riddles and battling mythical creatures, creating an immersive adventure.
- Kids’ Club Activities: Daily programs, including engaging story time sessions and exciting character appearances, keep younger guests entertained and delighted throughout their stay, fostering a sense of wonder.
- Kid-Friendly Suites: Themed suites, complete with bunk beds, separate sleeping areas, and often a living room, are a huge hit with children, providing both fun and functionality for families.
- On-site Dining & Retail: The convenience of on-site dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, along with retail shops for souvenirs, makes it incredibly easy to stay and play entirely on-property.
Good to Know:
Situated in Scotrun, Great Wolf Lodge is just a short drive to popular attractions like Camelback Mountain and the Premium Outlets. Waterpark access is exclusive to resort guests and is conveniently included with your stay, making it an excellent value for waterpark enthusiasts looking for Poconos family hotels.
Camelback Resort
Camelback Resort is an adventure seeker’s paradise, offering year-round excitement with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Whether blanketed in snow or basking in summer sun, the resort hums with the thrill of outdoor sports and indoor aquatic fun. It feels like a dynamic playground where families can continuously discover new ways to play, from soaring down ski slopes to splashing in tropical waters. The resort strikes a balance between active adventure and comfortable relaxation, perfect for families who love to stay busy.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark: Voted #1 Indoor Waterpark in the USA, Aquatopia features an incredible retractable roof, allowing for open-air fun on sunny days. It boasts thrilling slides, a fantastic wave pool, and an exhilarating surf simulator, ensuring endless aquatic excitement for everyone.
- Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark (seasonal): As Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor waterpark, Camelbeach expands the fun during warmer months with even more slides, a massive wave pool, and plenty of relaxation zones for families to enjoy the sun.
- Skiing and Snow Tubing (seasonal): During winter, families have direct access to Camelback Mountain for superb skiing and snow tubing. Lessons are readily available for all ages and skill levels, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned pros alike.
- Mountain Adventures Park: For dry-land excitement, the Mountain Adventures Park offers thrilling ziplining, an exhilarating mountain coaster ride, and challenging treetop adventures, providing adrenaline-pumping fun for all.
- Family Suites: The resort offers well-appointed suites specifically designed with families in mind, providing ample space, comfortable furnishings, and practical layouts to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Good to Know:
Camelback is ideally located in Tannersville, making it a prime spot for both summer and winter activities in the Poconos. Consider purchasing an all-inclusive package to conveniently bundle waterpark access and other exciting activities for the best value and a seamless vacation experience at one of the top Poconos family hotels.
The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
The Shawnee Inn offers a classic, charming, and somewhat historic feel, nestled gracefully on the banks of the picturesque Delaware River. It exudes a relaxed elegance that harks back to traditional family vacations, focusing on natural beauty and timeless activities. It feels like a serene escape where families can reconnect with nature and each other, away from the over-stimulation of modern life. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, inviting guests to explore the great outdoors or simply unwind by the fireplace.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- Riverfront Location: The inn boasts direct access to the beautiful Delaware River, providing fantastic opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and simply enjoying the scenic views from the tranquil riverbanks.
- Kids’ Club & Family Activities: The resort provides supervised activities for children through its Kids’ Club, allowing parents some leisure time. They also plan engaging family events like cozy bonfires and fun movie nights, fostering memorable shared experiences.
- Indoor Pool & Hot Tub: A year-round indoor pool and hot tub offer a fantastic option for swimming and relaxation, perfect for unwinding regardless of the weather outside.
- On-site Golf Course: For golf enthusiasts, there are opportunities for family golf outings on the pristine course or lessons for older children and beginners looking to learn the sport.
- Variety of Accommodations: The Shawnee Inn offers diverse lodging options, from traditional hotel rooms to spacious multi-bedroom cottages, thoughtfully catering to different family sizes and preferences, ensuring everyone finds their perfect fit.
Good to Know:
Situated in Shawnee on Delaware, it’s conveniently located near natural wonders like Bushkill Falls and the expansive Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Dining options are readily available on-site, and the resort often features seasonal packages that include various activities, enhancing your stay at this classic Poconos family hotel.
Skytop Lodge
Skytop Lodge is a grand, historic mountain lodge that evokes a sense of timeless luxury and classic elegance. Surrounded by 5,500 acres of pristine wilderness, it offers a serene and refined atmosphere, perfect for families seeking a sophisticated escape with abundant outdoor activities. It feels like stepping back into a golden era of resort vacations, where attention to detail and impeccable service are paramount, providing a peaceful yet engaging environment for families.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- All-Inclusive Options: Many packages at Skytop Lodge include delicious meals and a wide array of activities, significantly simplifying vacation planning and making budgeting a breeze for families.
- Extensive Outdoor Activities: The resort boasts an impressive list of outdoor adventures, including boating on the lake, scenic hiking trails, tranquil fishing spots, exciting archery, a challenging Treetop Adventure Course, and an exquisite 18-hole golf course.
- Indoor & Outdoor Pools: Families can enjoy swimming options year-round with both indoor and outdoor pools, including a heated outdoor pool perfect for cooler days.
- Kids’ Program: A supervised Kids’ Program provides engaging activities for children, allowing parents some well-deserved leisure time to relax and recharge.
- Elegant Dining: Multiple on-site restaurants provide diverse culinary experiences, from casual family-friendly fare to sophisticated fine dining, ensuring there are delicious options for every palate.
Good to Know:
Located in Skytop, this lodge is a destination in itself, though still close enough for enjoyable day trips to other Poconos attractions. Dress codes can apply in some of the more upscale dining areas, adding to its charming, refined atmosphere, and booking advanced reservations for popular activities is highly recommended for a smooth experience at this distinguished Poconos family hotel.
Woodloch Pines Resort
Woodloch Pines is an award-winning, family-owned resort that delivers a wholesome, all-inclusive, and incredibly friendly experience. It cultivates a genuine sense of community and connection, feeling like a big family reunion where everyone is welcome. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, with a strong emphasis on interactive fun, traditional games, and bonding activities. It’s designed to bring families closer together through shared laughter and memorable moments in a beautiful lakefront setting.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- All-Inclusive Resort: Woodloch Pines is truly all-inclusive, encompassing three delicious meals daily, access to endless activities, and nightly entertainment, offering outstanding value and convenience for families.
- Extensive Daily Activity Schedule: The resort is packed with a unique and exciting daily schedule of games, contests, scavenger hunts, and themed events designed to engage and delight guests of all ages.
- On-site Water Sports: Families have direct access to a private lake for a variety of water sports, including boating, swimming, and thrilling waterskiing during the seasonal months.
- Indoor Pool & Splash Zone: A fantastic indoor pool and dedicated splash zone provide year-round aquatic fun, especially perfect for younger children to safely enjoy.
- Kids’ Club: Supervised programming at the Kids’ Club allows children to make new friends and enjoy age-appropriate activities, giving parents a chance to relax or pursue other interests.
Good to Know:
Situated in Hawley, near the serene Lake Wallenpaupack, Woodloch offers a more secluded and tranquil retreat feel. Due to its immense popularity, booking well in advance—often a year or more—is highly recommended to secure your desired dates, especially for this highly sought-after Poconos family hotel.
Split Rock Resort
Split Rock Resort offers a laid-back, expansive, and somewhat retro charm, making it a comfortable and accessible option for families. With its lakeside setting and sprawling property, it feels like a classic, unpretentious vacation spot where families can simply relax and enjoy a variety of activities without feeling overwhelmed. The atmosphere is generally lively but also provides ample space for quiet enjoyment, catering to families looking for a blend of fun and affordability.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark: The H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark features a thrilling wave pool, exciting slides for various ages, and a relaxing lazy river, providing hours of fun regardless of the outside weather.
- Lake Harmony Access: The resort offers seasonal access to beautiful Lake Harmony, where families can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and lounging on a sandy beach area.
- Bowling Alley & Arcade: An on-site bowling alley and arcade provide fantastic entertainment perfect for evening fun, rainy days, or just a break from the water.
- Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy an 18-hole course right on the property, offering opportunities for a relaxing round or family-friendly golf outings.
- Variety of Accommodations: Split Rock Resort provides diverse lodging options, from standard hotel rooms to spacious villas with full kitchens, offering flexibility for different family needs and budgets.
Good to Know:
Located in Lake Harmony, it’s convenient to popular attractions like Jack Frost and Big Boulder ski resorts, making it a great base for winter sports. While the resort offers many amenities, some facilities might feel a bit dated, so manage expectations accordingly, and always look for package deals that include waterpark passes for the best value at this Poconos family hotel.
Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts
Pocono Mountain Villas provides a spacious, home-away-from-home feel, offering condominium-style accommodations amidst a serene wooded setting. It’s ideal for families seeking more independence and space than a traditional hotel room, with a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that encourages longer stays. The vibe is quiet and residential, offering a peaceful base for exploring the Poconos, perfect for families who appreciate self-catering options and room to spread out.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
- Spacious Villas: The resort offers multi-bedroom villas that come complete with full kitchens, comfortable living areas, and often even in-unit laundry facilities, which are perfect for families desiring extra space and convenience during their vacation.
- Indoor & Outdoor Pools: Families can enjoy swimming options throughout the year, with both indoor and outdoor pools available for relaxation and fun, no matter the season.
- Mini-Golf & Game Room: On-site entertainment such as a mini-golf course and a well-equipped game room provides easy and accessible fun for children and families right at the resort.
- Access to Nature: Surrounded by natural beauty, the villas offer direct opportunities for hiking and enjoying the tranquil outdoors, providing a refreshing escape into nature.
- Flexibility: The inclusion of a full kitchen in each villa allows for convenient self-catering, which can significantly save on dining expenses and easily accommodate picky eaters or special dietary needs.
Good to Know:
Located near East Stroudsburg, it’s a great base for exploring the eastern Poconos, including the stunning Bushkill Falls and the expansive Delaware Water Gap. As a villa resort, some services might differ from a full-service hotel, and having a car is essential for getting around and reaching all the wonderful local attractions, making it a practical choice for Poconos family hotels.
Booking Smart: Pro-Tips for Families
1. Book During Off-Peak Times
For families aiming to snag better rates and enjoy fewer crowds, consider planning your visit to the Poconos during weekdays or the shoulder seasons, which typically include late spring or early fall. Avoiding major holidays and peak summer weekends can significantly enhance your experience, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and better availability at your chosen Poconos family hotels.
2. Factor in Resort Fees & Hidden Costs
Many Poconos resorts, particularly those boasting impressive waterparks and extensive amenities, charge additional resort fees. It’s crucial to always check what’s explicitly included in these fees when booking and to budget for potential extra costs such as parking, activity rentals like kayaks, or specific dining experiences. Being aware of all charges upfront helps avoid any unwelcome surprises.
3. Choose the Right Room Configuration
When traveling with children, prioritizing rooms or suites with separate sleeping areas is key to ensuring everyone gets a good night’s rest. Options with multiple bathrooms or a kitchenette can add immense convenience for families. If you’re traveling with a larger group, connecting rooms are an excellent choice, but often require a direct call to the hotel to guarantee availability, as they are frequently in high demand.
4. Consider All-Inclusive Packages
Resorts like Woodloch Pines or Skytop Lodge frequently offer all-inclusive options that can greatly simplify budgeting and elevate your family’s vacation experience by bundling meals and a wide array of activities. It’s always a smart move to compare these packages against a la carte pricing to determine if they truly offer better value for your family’s activity level and desired level of convenience.
5. Location, Location, Location
The Poconos is a vast and geographically diverse area, so the location of your chosen resort is paramount. Research your desired activities thoroughly—whether it’s specific ski resorts, picturesque hiking trails, or thrilling waterparks—and select a hotel that minimizes travel time between attractions. This strategic planning will significantly reduce stress and maximize fun for your entire family, ensuring you make the most of your stay at any of the Poconos family hotels.
