Looking for an easy Pennsylvania road trip packed with beautiful lake views, tasty local food, scenic hikes, and fun small town discoveries?
This Beltzville Lake itinerary takes you from sandy beaches and peaceful forest trails to relaxing countryside stops and unforgettable outdoor adventures, all within a short drive.
Whether you want to spend the day swimming, paddling, shopping, or exploring, you’ll find plenty of memorable places to enjoy at every stop.
Fill up the gas tank, grab your camera, and get ready for a road trip through some of the best hidden gems and classic attractions in the Pocono foothills.
1. Beltzville State Park Beach
Located in Lehighton, Beltzville State Park Beach is a 525-foot sandy beach and one of the most popular summer swimming spots in the Pocono foothills.
You can cool off in the designated swimming area and enjoy picnic tables, grills, and shady grassy spots that make it easy to spend the whole day here.
If you’re visiting with family, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy, from volleyball, soccer, and frisbee to snacks and cold drinks at the summer concession stand.
Whether you’re staying for a few hours or the entire afternoon, it’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
2. Country Junction-World’s Largest General Store
When you’re ready for a break from the water, take a 15-minute drive to Country Junction, proudly known as the World’s Largest General Store.
Spanning nearly two acres, it’s packed with everything from household gadgets and Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods to fresh fudge, toys, gifts, and home décor.
You’ll also find a free petting zoo where you can get up close to goats, cows, chickens, pigs, colorful peacocks, and other friendly farm animals.
For even more fun, spend some time in the arcade, knock down a few pins at the mini bowling lanes, or take a spin in the bumper cars.
3. Country View Diner
A quick 2-minute drive from Country Junction brings you to Country View Diner, a longtime local favorite known for its classic Pennsylvania comfort food.
For breakfast, fuel up with omelets, French toast, Eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, or biscuits topped with sausage gravy.
If you’re stopping by for lunch, treat yourself to burgers, club sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, tuna melts, fish sandwiches, and daily specials.
With generous portions, friendly service, and a convenient location along Interchange Road, it’s an easy place to recharge before the next stop.
4. Preachers Camp Boat Launch
After a satisfying meal, continue 5 minutes to Preachers Camp Boat Launch on Beltzville Lake, where you’ll find wide-open lake views.
It features a boat ramp, parking for vehicles with trailers, and quick access to the 949-acre lake, giving you plenty of room to cruise, kayak, or paddle.
You can also cast a line for panfish, then take in the peaceful scenery as ducks, turtles, frogs, and birds bring the shoreline to life.
Even if you’re not launching a boat, it’s still a great place to stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and watch boats glide across the lake.
5. Big Creek Vineyard
Just 10 minutes from Preachers Camp is Big Creek Vineyard in Kunkletown, a quiet winery surrounded by the scenic Pocono Mountains.
You can sample everything from crisp Seyval and Cayuga White wines to bold Marechal Foch and Frontenac reds, plus rosés and sweet favorites.
The tasting room overlooks the vineyard, where you can pair your wine with an antipasto plate, Italian bread, or red wine fudge while enjoying the views.
If you want to bring home a tasty souvenir from your road trip, pick up your favorite bottle and enjoy it long after your visit.
6. Wild Creek Falls Trail
Next, lace up your hiking shoes and explore Wild Creek Falls Trail, a quick forest hike that leads to one of the area’s prettiest hidden waterfalls.
This 1-mile loop trail follows Wild Creek through peaceful forest scenery, crossing a wooden bridge before continuing upstream to the cascading falls.
The rushing water spills over broad rock ledges into a clear pool, so be sure to make room on your camera for a few memorable photos.
Keep in mind that the path can be muddy, uneven, and slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are highly recommended.
7. Downtown Jim Thorpe
Lastly, head to Downtown Jim Thorpe, where charming streets, beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, and mountain views create the perfect ending to your road trip.
Once you’re here, browse independent shops and breweries, then stop by Rainbow’s End for nostalgic candy, homemade fudge, and ice cream.
Don’t miss the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or the Old Jail Museum, three iconic attractions that highlight the town’s fascinating history.
If you love festivals, plan your visit in October to experience the Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival, featuring live music, food vendors, and scenic train rides.
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