Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, Ulster, PA

For Pennsylvania families seeking a classic, amenity-rich camping experience that promises both relaxation and non-stop entertainment, Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground stands out as a premier destination in the state’s beautiful Endless Mountains region. This family-owned and operated hidden treasure occupies 83 acres of expertly maintained grounds, offering a world away from the daily grind yet remaining conveniently accessible for locals across the Commonwealth.

Located in Ulster, PA, the campground is built on the philosophy that family fun is the highest priority. It is designed to cater to all types of campers, from those with large RVs seeking full hookups to tent campers and those who prefer the comfort of a rental cabin or cottage. While it is certainly a vibrant, activity-filled environment—some guests note the constant energy from children and golf carts—the overriding consensus in customer reviews is the park's exceptional dedication to maintenance and the notably friendly nature of the staff. This commitment ensures a welcoming and consistently clean environment, which is frequently cited as a reason families return year after year.

At its heart is a picturesque 18-acre lake, providing a stunning natural backdrop to a lively, organized camping vacation. For Pennsylvania locals, Pine Cradle Lake offers a chance to reconnect with nature and family, complemented by a wide array of recreational amenities that minimize the need to leave the property.

Location and Accessibility for Pennsylvania Users

Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground is perfectly situated in the Endless Mountains of Northeast Pennsylvania, providing an ideal escape for residents from major cities and neighboring states. The address is 220 Shoemaker Rd, Ulster, PA 18850, USA.

This location is strategically positioned to be a convenient drive for many PA residents:

Regional Hub Access: The campground is easily reachable from major Pennsylvania regions and is a feasible driving distance from cities like Scranton and Williamsport. Its location also benefits residents from the Southern New York area, including Binghamton and Elmira, offering a premier destination close to the state line.
Endless Mountains Scenery: Nestled within the foothills of the Endless Mountains, the area provides the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty that defines a true Pennsylvania getaway. The quiet setting allows families to disconnect from technology—a welcome side effect of the rural location, where cell service can be limited but boosts are available at the office/camp store.
Local Exploration: While the campground is amenity-rich, the surrounding Bradford County area offers opportunities for local excursions. Nearby attractions include:
- Wyalusing Rocks Scenic Overlook, offering breathtaking views of the Susquehanna River.
- Local wineries and historical museums.
- A short drive to major state parks like Mount Pisgah State Park.

Services Offered for a Hassle-Free Stay

The campground is designed for maximum convenience and comfort, ensuring that all guests, whether in an RV, tent, or rental, have access to essential services and site hookups.

Accommodation Variety: Offers a wide array of sites, including:
- Full Hookup RV Sites: Water, electric (20/30/50 AMP), and sewer utilities, with spacious pull-through and lakeside options.
- Tent/Pop-up Sites: Designated sites with water and electric hookups (20 AMP).
- Rental Units: A variety of comfortable Cabins and Housekeeping Cottages for those without a camping unit.
Rental Services: Golf cart rentals are available to cruise the park easily, as are boat rentals (kayaks, pedal boats, paddleboards) for the lake.
Camp Amenities: Essential services include:

Clean, well-maintained bathhouses with spacious restrooms and showers.
A fully stocked Camp Store selling ice cream, firewood, ice, propane, and camping supplies.
A convenient on-site Laundromat to keep your camping wardrobe fresh.
Fee-based Wi-Fi service is available at sites, with a free Wi-Fi hotspot near the office.

Gated Security: The park operates with gated security for the peace of mind of all resident families.

Key Features and Family Highlights

The appeal of Pine Cradle Lake lies in its impressive list of recreational features and its focus on organized family activities, which is where it truly shines as a family-friendly destination.

18-Acre Fishing Lake: The centerpiece of the park. It is stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, perch, sunfish, and bullhead, and offers catch-and-release fishing (no PA license required for registered campers). Note: Swimming is not permitted in the lake, but boating is allowed (non-gas motors only).
Premier Water Fun: The park features a heated swimming pool and an engaging Splash Pad area, which are open seasonally (Memorial Day to Labor Day). While some reviews note the pool can feel small due to the park's popularity, the combination provides excellent ways for families to cool off.
Active Recreation Facilities: Multiple spots are available for active play, including:
- Multiple Playgrounds and a Sand Box.
- Sports areas for Volleyball and Baseball.
- Traditional yard games like Horseshoes and Bocce Ball.
- The increasingly popular Gaga Ball court.
Themed Event Calendar: The campground maintains an extensive schedule of planned, themed activities throughout the season, ranging from holiday celebrations and fishing tournaments to adult-focused "Paint n' Sip" classes and "Murder Mystery Weekends," ensuring there is always something fun happening.
Exceptional Staff and Maintenance: Consistently high customer praise is directed toward the staff, described as "extremely friendly and helpful," and the grounds being "very well kept and clean." This dedication to service and quality makes for a superior camping experience.
Pet-Friendly: All campsites are Pet Friendly, allowing Pennsylvania families to bring their beloved dogs along for the adventure (with standard leash and cleanup rules).

Contact Information

For reservations and inquiries about Pennsylvania's premier family camping destination:

Address: 220 Shoemaker Rd, Ulster, PA 18850, USA
Phone: (570) 247-2424
Mobile Phone: +1 570-247-2424

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for PA Locals

Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground is perfectly tailored for the Pennsylvania resident looking for a high-value, high-activity camping getaway. It offers the ideal balance: a tranquil, scenic setting in the Endless Mountains combined with a resort-level array of amenities that keeps the entire family engaged.

This campground is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it’s a dedicated family destination. The friendly staff, immaculate facilities, and non-stop schedule of fun events mean you can spend less time planning and more time making lasting memories. For locals in search of a "stay-cation" that genuinely feels like a retreat from the noise of modern life—even with the charming, lively hum of a full campground—Pine Cradle Lake is an enthusiastically recommended, well-maintained haven in the heart of Pennsylvania.