Camp Lackawanna, Tunkhannock, PA

Introduction / Overview

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and rediscover the tranquility of nature at Camp Lackawanna. Nestled in the breathtaking Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, this cherished destination has been offering an invaluable ministry of recreation, education, and spiritual retreat since its founding in 1962. More than just a campground, Camp Lackawanna is a scenic retreat center and a traditional summer camp, perfectly situated along the winding Vosburg Neck of the majestic Susquehanna River. Owned and operated by the Presbytery of Lackawanna, PC(USA), it welcomes all individuals, families, and groups looking for a unique and memorable outdoor experience, whether for a rustic overnight stay, an organized retreat, or a week of traditional summer camp fun.

The camp boasts a truly stunning, rustic landscape that encourages exploration and connection with God's Creation. Visitors frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere, the beautiful, well-maintained grounds, and the hardworking, dedicated staff who go above and beyond to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all guests. Whether you are seeking a peaceful spot for tent camping or a fully organized group retreat, Camp Lackawanna is designed to serve as a wonderful setting for reflection, adventure, and community building right here in our Pennsylvania backyard.

Location and Accessibility

One of Camp Lackawanna’s greatest assets is its idyllic location within the gorgeous Endless Mountains region. The campground is situated on the Vosburg Neck of the Susquehanna River, right next to the beautiful Vosburg Neck State Park. This positioning offers not only stunning natural scenery but also easy access to river activities and extensive hiking trails.

The camp's address is 1219 Vosburg-Neck Rd, Tunkhannock, PA 18657, USA. This Tunkhannock location places it conveniently for many residents across Northeastern Pennsylvania, often being just an hour’s drive from major hubs like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. The secluded yet accessible nature of the location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect from city noise without traveling too far from home. Its placement on a river bend ensures a quiet, secluded feel, while its proximity to Route 6 makes it relatively straightforward to find for weekend getaways, group events, or family vacations. The charming, rustic facilities are maintained to provide a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounding fields, forestland, and the tranquil riverfront.

Services Offered

Camp Lackawanna provides a wide array of services and facilities catering to various needs, from individual campers to large groups and organizations. These services make it an incredibly versatile resource for the local Pennsylvania community.

Overnight Accommodations: A variety of lodging is available, including traditional rustic open-air cabins (typically sleeping 6 in bunk beds), tent sites, and dorm-style rooms in Smyrl Lodge and Mission House for different comfort levels.
Group Retreats and Rentals: The camp is available for rental from September through June, perfectly accommodating groups ranging from 2 to 200 people. It is a favored location for church groups, school field trips, corporate picnics, team-building adventures, and family reunions.
Summer Camp Programming: Offering traditional, highly-rated Christian summer camp programs focused on faith formation, fun, independence, and resilience for youth across various age groups, with themed camps like Music, Art & Drama (MAD) and adventure-based programs.
Food Services: High-quality food options are consistently praised by visitors, with meals often included as part of the structured camp and retreat packages, served in Merrill Lodge.
Family Camp Weekends: Popular weekend events designed for the whole family to bond and enjoy activities together, often including accommodations, meals, and a full slate of activities.
Environmental Education: The location and programming support outdoor education, leveraging the natural features like the Susquehanna River and surrounding forests.
Basic Camping Amenities: Tent sites are available, allowing for a more traditional, primitive camping experience near the river.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Camp Lackawanna apart are the unique features and highlights that enhance every visitor’s stay. The stunning natural environment is seamlessly integrated with thoughtfully provided facilities and engaging activities.

Susquehanna River Access: The riverfront provides a tranquil setting for relaxation, reflection, and various water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, which are often included in summer camp and family programs.
Extensive Hiking Trails: The grounds feature beautifully maintained trails, perfect for short strolls, long hikes, and engaging family scavenger hunts through the forest and along the historic Vosburg Neck.
On-Site Swimming Pool: A 30' x 60' swimming pool offers a refreshing amenity for campers and guests during the warmer months.
Recreational Sports Facilities: Amenities include facilities for organized sports such as a basketball court, volleyball court, and open fields for games and recreation.
Dedicated Worship Spaces: The camp features an Outdoor Chapel and a fire circle, perfect for evening worship, reflection, and the classic campfire experience with s'mores.
Historic and Charming Facilities: The rustic camp buildings and lodges, including Merrill Lodge (main dining/assembly area), Smyrl Lodge, and Rushmore Lodge, maintain a unique, charming atmosphere that contributes to the traditional camping experience.
Proximity to Vosburg Neck State Park: Being adjacent to the state park offers guests expanded opportunities for exploration and nature immersion.
Exceptional Staff Commitment: Real customer reviews repeatedly highlight the staff’s kindness, hard work, and dedication to making every guest's experience a great one.

Contact Information

For booking retreats, registering for summer camp, or general inquiries about visiting Camp Lackawanna, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1219 Vosburg-Neck Rd, Tunkhannock, PA 18657, USA

Phone: (570) 836-3444

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the Northeastern and Endless Mountains regions, Camp Lackawanna is an invaluable local treasure and the perfect destination for a getaway. Its proximity to communities like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre means you can enjoy a profound escape to the quiet of the mountains without the hassle of a long-distance road trip. The camp provides a vital opportunity for local families to connect with the incredible natural beauty of the Susquehanna River and the Endless Mountains, fostering a deeper appreciation for our state's rustic landscape.

It is an ideal spot for a wide range of needs—from a weekend of simple, rustic tent camping to sending children to a highly-rated summer camp where they can gain independence, build resilience, and forge lifelong friendships. Moreover, the facility provides an excellent, scenic venue for local groups—be it schools, churches, or businesses—to hold accessible retreats, reunions, and team-building events. The combination of beautiful riverfront scenery, well-maintained charming facilities, and a dedicated staff makes Camp Lackawanna a reliable and highly-recommended local spot. It’s an authentic Northeastern Pennsylvania experience that supports both spiritual and recreational rejuvenation, truly living up to its reputation as a 'stunning' site with 'tranquil and lovely' riverfront along the Susquehanna. Make your next outdoor adventure a local one and discover the restorative power of Camp Lackawanna.