Split Rock Resort

Hidden away within the picturesque Pocono Mountains, Split Rock Resort & Golf Club is a family-oriented escape whose beautiful sunsets on Lake Harmony rival its man-made attractions. Whitetail deer roam the grounds and the property’s country decor can be seen as a passable attempt at matching its interior spaces with natural settings. The lobby is flanked by an expansive, lodge-style sitting area with patterned marooned carpeting and lots of seating. 

Deep in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains -- known for camping, hiking, and numerous ski areas -- the Split Rock is on private grounds along Lake Harmony. While the property feels completely secluded, it's convenient to I-80 and I-476 and not too far from several destinations, including Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Area (a 10-minute drive northwest) and several state parks. The Crossings Premium Outlet mall is about a 30-minute drive to the east, while Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport is about 35-40 minutes north.

The resort features more than 500 rooms styled in country decor, offering almost a dozen different types ranging from traditional rooms to villas and lodges overlooking Lake Harmony. Many guest units have kitchenettes or full kitchens, and adjoining rooms can be combined to hold big family groups. Pricier rooms have fireplaces, whirlpools, and balconies. Some furnishings are outdated (especially in the galleria building), where decrepit appliances and tube-style TVs can be found in rooms that have yet to be modernized. Contemporary bathrooms have standard walk-in showers, with many rooms offering separate whirlpool tubs. 

Between the property’s natural setting and massive indoor facilities, leisure activities abound at the Split Rock. The indoor water park has tube rides, wave pools, and huge waterslides that loop outside of the building before plunging back indoors into the cavernous children's paradise. A swimming pool and seasonal outdoor pool are also on hand, and the lake itself is available for other water-based fun like fishing and boating.

The sprawling grounds are home to 27 holes of championship golf as well as an 18-hole mini-golf course. Other sporting facilities include indoor and outdoor tennis courts, racquetball, archery, bocce ball, and volleyball. For less strenuous fun, guests can avail themselves of the on-site movie theater, video arcade, and eight-lane bowling alley. Even more relaxing is the massage center and spa with steam rooms and a salon. The fitness center is well-equipped with treadmills, cardio bikes, and elliptical cross trainers, and also offers water aerobics classes. All facilities are open to the public and most require extra fees or day passes. 

Dining options include Bel'lago Ristorante, which serves traditional Italian standards with a long wine list, as well as a more casual cafe with pizza and sandwiches. The Split Rock Grille offers a daily breakfast and Thirsty Moose Saloon has occasional live music shows. The ice cream parlor is always a hit.