This past weekend, I traveled with a few friends to the Pocono Mountains in Eastern Pennsylvania. Approximately equidistant from Philadelphia and New York City, the Pocono Mountains provide a brief respite from the chaos of work, classes and the bustle of the city.

Despite being less than two hours from either city, the Poconos have ample nature and open space for the weary wanderer to enjoy. Airbnb helped us find a quaint house to call our own for the weekend, and it did not disappoint. Between the pleasant neighbors we greeted on the way in and the neighborhood’s secluded atmosphere, our stay was exactly as we hoped it would be. For daytime entertainment, we took a short car ride to Tobyhanna State Park, which featured an impressive trail system and pristine cedar water. The state park also boasts diverse wildlife, including river snakes, various species of fish, chipmunks and black bears.

Beneath the unobstructed starry sky, we lit a campfire and roasted s’mores, reminiscent of childhood camping adventures. The beautiful scenery made the perfect backdrop for celebratory sparklers and acoustic guitars echoing through the forest. The master bedroom even featured a Jacuzzi bathtub, which was the perfect way to end a relaxing weekend.

If you enjoy the outdoors, visiting the Pocono Mountains is a must. This quintessential camping region is perfect for your inner explorer. Although it may be more built up than the forests out West, the Pocono Mountains park system provides all the nature we needed. Overall, our relaxing visit to the Poconos was the perfect way to kick off the summer.

— Daphne Gould, intern