It was right around the time my kids finished school that we decided to return to our favorite spot in the Poconos, the Camelback Resort, as a way to welcome summer, just a few days before our trip to Peru.
As expected, we all had that immense desire to spend a few days without the stress of homework and exams from the last semester, and off we went once again to enjoy this resort that opened its doors just this year and which has almost everything to make you not want to leave for the entire duration of your stay. I say almost everything because you really can't resist going out to contemplate and take a walk through the beautiful mountains that surround the place.
Upon check-in, we were given an orange wristband. It looked like a simple plastic band, like the ones at amusement parks, but it was actually the one used to enter the rooms and some services, and it was the one we had to wear throughout our stay. That's right, everything was state-of-the-art, just like the big parks in the southeast of the country.
However, since this isn't our first time visiting the resort, we've learned a few things that might be helpful to you and your family if you're planning to visit.
- If you get the deal, like us, you'll be given a discount booklet worth $$200, which can be used on various resort services, including games and amenities. We got a discount at the souvenir shop and on my ever-present morning coffee. The $$50 coupon for the games was transferred to our bracelet (remember the orange one?). This amount had to be spent before leaving the resort because it can't be carried over to a future visit.
- There, they also explained that if you want, you can deposit a "spending" amount of money, which is included in the amount on the bracelet. This way, the kids have a limited budget and we avoid any surprises when we see the receipt. Great, right? *Don't forget to ask about this upon arrival.
- This last time, we stayed three days at the Camelback Resort. The staff was as always friendly and immediately showed us to our room. It didn't have a balcony, but it did have a beautiful view of Camelback Mountain and all the amenities for a great few days of fun. Just one recommendation: ask before you arrive if they're still doing construction. If so, you can request a room away from the noise that can be heard in the morning. In reality, we only heard it very early on, because after nine o'clock, everyone was already at Aquatopia, enjoying this fun water park!
- Upon arrival and check-in at the hotel, you'll be given a towel card. With this card, you can request the towels you need to enjoy the water park. We brought our own towels, so we didn't need to use the card, but it can still help in a pinch.
- Ask carefully until what time the water park is open, hours vary on weekends.
- The coupon book offers discounts on some meals, but you can also look for other options outside the lodge. We went for a walk outside the lodge and had to eat out one day, but since we had a refrigerator and microwave in our room, we were able to eat there the next day as well.
- With a stay at the Camelback Lodge, you can also get passes to Camelbeach. We couldn't go this time because it was still a bit chilly, but if it's still warm, I suggest you don't miss this opportunity to go, at least for a few hours.
- If you have time and want to get out and explore the surrounding area, a place with a beautiful view is Big Pocono, Big View in Big Pocono State Park just a few minutes from the Resort, and it even has a perfect place for a picnic.
The time we spent at Aquatopia was so much fun! I was able to overcome my fear and ride a couple of rides I'd sworn I'd never go on, but I did. It's a shame I don't have a photo of that moment. We spent hours and hours riding the lazy river. For me, it was like relaxation therapy, while for my kids, it was pure fun.
I hope these suggestions help you if you plan to visit Camelback Resort this year. Remember, there are plenty of entertainment options here year-round.
