The Best Family-Friendly Resorts for a Pennsylvania Winter Weekend

Here are the top family-friendly resorts in Pennsylvania for a memorable winter break:

1. Camelback Resort & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark (Pocono Mountains)

If your family can't decide between hitting the slopes and splashing in a swimsuit, Camelback is the ultimate destination. It offers the perfect balance of indoor and outdoor excitement.

• The Winter Draw: Camelback is home to the largest snow tubing park in the United States, featuring over 40 lanes. It also boasts 39 trails for skiing and snowboarding (all illuminated for night skiing).
• Family Fun Inside: The massive Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark maintains a tropical 84-degree temperature year-round. It features thrilling slides, a wave pool, and water features suitable for all ages, making it a perfect retreat from the cold.
• Best For: Families with a wide range of ages who want to guarantee both outdoor adventure and indoor warmth.

2. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions (Pocono Mountains)

For a truly immersive, tropical indoor experience, Kalahari brings an African-themed oasis to the Poconos. It claims the title of one of the largest indoor water parks in the country.

• The Winter Draw: The resort’s primary attraction is its enormous indoor water park, which features large waterslides, a lazy river, a wave simulator, and dedicated areas for toddlers.
• Beyond the Water: Kalahari also offers dry-land fun, including a massive family entertainment center with an arcade, escape rooms, black light mini-golf, and a dedicated kids' craft area.
• Best For: Families whose priority is escaping the cold and maximizing time in a dedicated, large-scale indoor amusement environment.

3. Woodloch Resort (Pocono Mountains)

Named the #1 Family Resort in the U.S. by USA Today readers, the all-inclusive Woodloch offers a unique, activity-driven experience focused on family togetherness, often compared to a "cruise ship on land."

• The Winter Draw: While Woodloch sits near skiing and features an on-site tubing run with manufactured snow, its true winter charm is the all-inclusive package of structured activities. These often include ice skating, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and nightly family-friendly entertainment and shows.
• Family Amenities: The packages typically include three hearty family-style meals a day, ensuring a stress-free experience where all dining and entertainment logistics are handled.
• Best For: Families seeking an all-inclusive, nostalgic, and activity-packed vacation focused on traditional games and bonding rather than large thrill rides.

4. Skytop Lodge (Pocono Mountains)

The historic Skytop Lodge offers a more classic, luxurious mountain retreat experience reminiscent of the grand lodges of old, set on a sprawling 5,500-acre estate.

• The Winter Draw: Skytop embraces classic winter sports, offering its own gentle ski slopes for beginners, a popular snow tubing run, and indoor ice skating. The property’s extensive grounds are perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.
• Family Amenities: Beyond the outdoor activities, the resort offers family programs like "Kids Stay, Play, and Eat Breakfast FREE" packages, an indoor pool, and an Adventure Center with activities for older children.
• Best For: Families looking for a traditional, upscale winter vacation with access to natural outdoor activities and an array of on-site amenities.

5. Hershey Lodge (Central Pennsylvania)

For families looking to combine a winter getaway with a sweet dose of chocolate, Hershey Lodge provides a themed experience in "The Sweetest Place on Earth."

• The Winter Draw: Although not a ski resort, the winter season brings special events like Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, which features millions of lights and holiday attractions. Resort stays often include perks like free shuttle service and extra hours at the park.
• Family Fun Inside: The lodge features Hershey’s Water Works, an indoor pool complex that includes two large waterslides and a Reese’s Water Walk, ensuring the kids have plenty of fun splashing around regardless of the weather outside.
• Best For: Families with younger children who enjoy themed experiences, indoor water parks, and holiday light displays.