The state of Pennsylvania is rich in natural resources, stunning beauty and American history. Divided down its middle by the Appalachian Mountains, Pennsylvania’s diverse regions give the state character as well as a myriad of options for recreation and outdoor exploration.
The Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania offer world-class skiing, snowboarding and snow-tubing. The Allegheny region is home to excellent hiking trails, bike trails, fishing and boating. Pennsylvania’s Erie Triangle gives the state 51 miles of coastline along Lake Erie and provides a perfect setting for summertime water sports such as swimming, kayaking and canoeing.
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Some places that may interest Christian groups include:
Sight and Sound Theatres – This impressive drama company produces high-quality shows based on Biblical stories and themes. The theater incorporates top-notch special effects, music and performers to bring Bible stories to life.
Ephrata – Located in the famous Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish county of Lancaster, Ephrata is the home of America’s first communal religious society. It is also renowned for its spring waters.
Historic Philadelphia – The City of Brotherly Love played an important part in the history of the United States. Philadelphia is home to a long list of historic places, monuments and memorials that were vital parts of the founding of the United States. Christ Church is where many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence worshipped on Sundays and of course, Independence Hall where the document was signed is a can’t-miss site.
Pennsylvania’s colorful history and diverse natural landscape make it a perfect place for youth camps and adult retreats. Distinct seasons and varied landscapes give the state an unending supply of exciting things to do year-round. From the snow-covered peaks of the Poconos to the proud history of Independence Hall, Pennsylvania has something of interest for everyone.
The best camps and retreat venues in Pennsylvania are:
Refreshing Mountain
(717) 985-7141
455 Camp Rd, Stevens, PA 17578
www.RefreshingMountain.com
Refreshing Mountain is a non-denominational Christian retreat and adventure center, built on 80 acres of beautiful woodland in Lancaster County, Pa. We host overnight retreats for groups of all sizes, providing lodging, meeting space, activities, and recreation. We also create exciting, outdoor day adventures for individuals, families, and groups with activities such as zip-lines and team building.
We offer a variety of comfortable lodging options, including community-style bunkhouses, hotel-style lodge rooms, and fully furnished family cabins. We have meeting rooms for groups of all sizes that can be equipped with audio/visual equipment. Our accommodations are professionally cleaned and maintained by our staff.
Mount Asbury Retreat Center
717-486-3827
1310 Centerville Road, Newville, PA 17241
www.mountasbury.org
Surrounded by over 100 acres of forest, this tranquil facility affords all the comforts and amenities for your Christian retreat experience. Hotel-Style bedrooms, spacious meeting areas, and delicious dining are available in the Asbury Lodge. The charming Gray House is available for a more rustic retreat. Located 3 miles from Interstate 81, and close proximity to Harrisburg, Mount Asbury is the perfect setting for a peaceful time away.
Camp Penn
717-762-2693
8005 Old Forge Road, Waynesboro, PA 17268
www.camppenn.org
Camp Penn has been providing quality Christian camping opportunities for over 70 years. This 11-acre facility is packed full of awesome summer camp fun. Activities that campers can expect to experience are: swimming in the pool, archery, GaGa ball, nine square in the air, basketball, crafts, indoor & outdoor chapels, evening campfires, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, team building, volleyball, and trout fishing on the Antietam. Summer campers sleep in long house-style cabins.
Wesley Forest
570-922-1348
58 Wesley Forest Lane, Weikert, PA 17885
www.wesleyforest.org
Nestled at the base of White Mountain in Central Pennsylvania, Wesley Forest Camp and Retreat is a place of rejuvenation for you. Take a walk around the lake, hike through the lush forests, or spend time at the inspiring Chimney Rock vista. Our year-round facilities offer the perfect setting for a memorable week-long retreat, weekend event, or day-long gathering for up to 200.
During the summer, we operate as a resident Christian Summer Camp for children, youth, and persons with special needs. Wesley Forest has been providing relevant and relational Christian, educational, non-profit, and volunteer programs since 1961. We invite you to come and experience this life-changing place, our hospitality and picturesque surroundings await your arrival.
Greene Hills
814-669-4212
5125 Manor Drive, Alexandria, PA 16611
www.greenehills.org
We invite you to come and experience the beauty of God’s awesome creation all year long at Greene Hills. Pitch a tent or rent one of our rental RV’s at the Family Campground & RV Park, spend the week in a cabin at the Summer Camp Area, or bring your group to the Manor for a fabulous winter retreat.
Hike to Cathedral Meadow, play some basketball in the barn, try some fishing or tubing in the Little Juniata River, or experience some of the best sledding around. Wrap up the day around the campfire under the stars or with a cup of hot cocoa and time of worship in front of a warm fireplace.