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Head to NEPA’s Countryside for Summertime Family Fun
Located just north of the Valley Cities, the Endless Mountains are the perfect place to enjoy some close-to-home fun this summer. Our region will take you back to simpler times, when summer vacation was all about lounging by the lake, telling stories around the campfire, and taking those oh-so-sweet trips to the neighborhood ice cream shop. It’s the kind of place where you can still buy fresh produce from a roadside farm stand or ride your bike down our endless dirt roads. That relaxed, nostalgic feel is what makes the Endless Mountains so special.
Whether you visit for the day or spend the night, you’ll discover a serene getaway in Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties. Add these ideas to your summer bucket list and check out the annual Guide to the Endless Mountains for more inspiration.
Pick Your Own Berries
The grocery store just can’t compete with fresh, hand-picked berries. Our local u-pick farms welcome visitors to wander through the berry patches, load up their baskets, and make lasting family memories.
Whistle Pig Pumpkin Patch in Noxen is a destination for pick-your-own produce. Their season begins with strawberries, which are normally available for a few weeks in June. Red raspberries are often ripe by late June, followed by black raspberries and blueberries in July. August brings sweet, plump blackberries, as well as tomatoes and peppers (perfect for making homemade sauces and salsas).
Tucked away on the scenic backroads of Mehoopany, the Berry Barn at Henningstead Organic Farm also offers fresh blackberries and raspberries. After you fill your basket, make sure to pick up some local honey, maple syrup, and other farm-fresh goodies.
Penn-Can Berry Farm near New Milford is home to bountiful u-pick blueberries and raspberries. They typically open in July. The farm is a short drive from the Gibson exit off Interstate 81, making it an easy day trip from the Valley.
Remember, family farms depend on Mother Nature to cooperate. Hours may vary, even during the season. Call or check online before you visit.
Paddle the Susquehanna River
Take a trip down the North Branch Susquehanna River, and you’ll quickly see why it was voted Pennsylvania’s 2023 River of the Year. From a kayak or canoe, you can cruise along the peaceful current and take in the views of the lush forests, rocky cliffs, and rolling hills. It’s also a great opportunity to spot wildlife, such as bald eagles.
Endless Mountain Outfitters in Sugar Run or Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals in Falls make it easy to get out on the water, even if you’re a beginner. These local businesses offer river trips complete with boat rentals, gear, and shuttle services. From short, easy paddles to full-day adventures, they can recommend trips for all experience levels.
Stop & Smell the Flowers
Relax, unwind, and enjoy the views at our local flower farms. In late June and early July, the lavender is in full bloom at Mountain Sprigs Farm in Tunkhannock, filling the air with a soft, soothing aroma. The farm hosts events throughout the season, including DIY classes, yoga sessions, and more.
In August, Brown Hill Farms in Tunkhannock opens their popular Sunflower Trail, which features over 30 acres of bright, cheerful blossoms. Visitors can cut their own bouquets, snap photos with the props in the field, and say hello to the adorable farm animals.
Summer is the most stunning time of the year at Patchwork Planting in Noxen, a family-run farm with over 40 different flowers and nearly 100 different varieties. Visit during the you-pick season to cut your own bouquet (hours and updates are available online). They also offer flower subscriptions, flower buckets for special events, and produce co-op boxes.
Find a Swimming Hole
As the temperatures rise, our lakes and streams are the place to be. Up in the mountains, the water stays cool, clear, and refreshing all summer long.
Luckily, you don’t have to drive far to enjoy a beach day. Ricketts Glen State Park is home to a 600-foot sand beach and swimming area on the shores of Lake Jean. Kids (and adults) can easily spend the entire afternoon splashing in the water, building sandcastles, and playing on the volleyball court. Shaded picnic areas and a concession stand are located right by the water to enjoy lunch with a view.
Worlds End State Park in Forksville is another well-known spot to beat the heat. The park has a designated swimming area on the Loyalsock Creek, right near the day use entrance.
Go Out for Ice Cream
After a long day of adventures, swing by a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat. Families always have a blast at Harding’s Dairy Bar & Golf in Tunkhannock, which has been a summertime staple since 1978. Play a round on their 18-hole mini golf course, then grab some of their famous soft serve. Local tip: come hungry because you’ll want to try their mouthwatering barbecue and homemade sides too.
Susquehanna Scoops in downtown Susquehanna is another popular place to cool off. This year-round ice cream parlor serves Hershey’s ice cream in just about every flavor imaginable, along with shakes, sundaes, and other delicious desserts.
If you’re hitting the parks and trails in Sullivan County, make sure to treat yourself at Bear Mountain Trading Post in Forksville, which boasts over 50 flavors of soft ice cream. MaryBeth’s WestSide Deli in Dushore and D&D Brew Works in Muncy Valley are local favorites as well.
Camp Out
It wouldn’t be summer without a night of roasting marshmallows, catching fireflies, and sleeping under the stars. The Endless Mountains are home to plenty of campgrounds, where you’ll find everything from rustic tent sites to RV parks. If roughing it isn’t your style, some campgrounds even offer cozy cabin rentals.
Parks like Salt Springs State Park, Ricketts Glen State Park, and Worlds End State Park also have camping facilities in some of the region’s most scenic locations.
Head to the County Fair
The entire summer leads up to the biggest and most iconic events of the season: our county fairs. These events showcase the region’s farming heritage, which is still strong today. Not to mention, there’s no shortage of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and irresistible food.
Fair season kicks off with the 147th Troy Fair on July 24 through 29. This year’s concert headliner is Chris Janson, whose new album comes out this summer. Additional grandstand shows include the NYTPA tractor pulls, truck pulls, bullride mania, and a demo derby.
The 165th Annual Harford Fair comes to New Milford on August 14 through 19. Bring the entire family for rides, games, shows, vendors, and more. And don’t miss the grandstand concert by country singer-songwriter Priscilla Block.
On August 30 through September 3, the 171st Annual Sullivan County Fair in Forksville will host down-home country fun, including live music, contests, tractor and truck pulls, a demo derby, and more.
Then on August 30 through September 4, the Wyoming County Fair in Meshoppen will send Labor Day Weekend out with a bang, complete with a concert by country star Warren Zeiders. The fair also hosts a great lineup of local musicians, thrilling shows, family fun, and more.
Share Your Photos with EMVB
Show us your favorite summer memories! The Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau is currently accepting submissions for our annual photo contest. This year’s theme is “Celebrate Together,” featuring friends, family, and community members having fun in the Endless Mountains. Whether it’s a picture from a local festival or a snapshot from a family hike, we’d love to see it! Contest guidelines and a submission form are available online.
Featured Image (Top) Courtesy of Erika Bruckner.
