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Archives for January 2020

Chuck Russell & The Spirit of the Woodloch Games | Woodloch Resort

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Chuck Russell & The Spirit of the Woodloch Games

We all have at least one of “those” friends.

You know, the type of friend that seems to be comfortable almost everywhere you go, striking up new friendships with almost everyone they meet. The type of friend that’s willing and eager to try anything at least once. The type of friend that’s super passionate and possibly opinionated about things, but always quick for a hug when you’re down or need a boost of confidence. The ones that occasionally push you out of your comfort zone, for better or worse but with the best intentions.

And how lucky we are to find these sorts of friends.

Woodloch has had its share of “friends” like these over the years. One in particular was our good friend, Mr. Chuck Russell.

Like many of our guests do, Chuck visited our resort every year with his family. And simply put, he got involved in pretty much EVERYTHING our resort had to offer. “The man was just EVERYWHERE,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “He quickly developed a bit of a reputation for being ‘that guy’- a true life of the party that had a certain magnetism about him. He whistled, cheered, and just had a great time everywhere he went. He was very competitive, but at day’s end, was always quick to shake hands in the true spirit of sportsmanship.

When Chuck’s company reassigned his job to Michigan, it still didn’t matter- year after year, the family still trekked to Woodloch to enjoy time with each other and their ever-growing crew of friends. He continued to make great vacation memories with his family and his newly found “Woodloch Family” for many years.

In 1995, Chuck sadly lost the battle with cancer. “The Woodloch family was devastated,” says Joey. “We realized fairly quickly that we wanted to find away to not only remember Chuck but also the wonderful spirit of the Woodloch games that he so well embodied.” And thus, our Chuck Russell Award was born!

During each of our 9 weeks of summer, we would select one individual who seemed to carry the torch that Chuck ignited and recognize them at our weekly “Awards Ceremony” in the Nightclub. “It was a bittersweet kind of thing,” says Ranner. “We all truly missed Chuck, but it was rather warming to see so many of our guests keep that fire alive.” Over the years, this exclusive “club” grew and now is over 300 members strong.

It’s hard to believe that 30 years have passed since we handed out our first “Chucky” trophy. So of course, we thought it would be more than appropriate to celebrate this milestone anniversary with a special weekend, November 14 – 16, 2025! In total, we will be inviting all honorees to our resort for a special weekend filled with all of our favorite Woodloch games, entertainment, and even a special champagne toast to all winners and of course, Chuck himself.

“It’s going to be just a wonderful weekend at our resort,” says Ranner. “So much energy, so much love and so much FUN! Whether you’re returning for your 50th Woodloch visit (we have several guests who have exceeded that plateau) or are just joining us for the first time, there’s no denying that the great spirit of what makes Woodloch so special will be, like our dear friend Chuck, EVERYWHERE.”

Woodloch Scouts Operation Cookie Drop | Woodloch Resort

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Woodloch Scouts and Friends Fall-In for “Operation: COOKIE DROP”

Over the past few years, Woodloch has become a terrific escape for visiting scout groups.  They’re here to participate in our marquee events such as Scavenger Hunt, Winter Olympics, Cupcake Wars and more not only for the coveted gold medals but also for customized Woodloch badges that will soon be stitched on their sashes.  Needless to say, their presence is always known- their enthusiasm and laughter buzz like a nest of honeybees wherever they travel off to.

And of course, THE COOKIES. They always seem to have them in close reach.  For years, our scout groups would have some extra boxes here and there and simply leave them with staff as a “thank you” for a fun weekend (or perhaps as an underhand attempt at gaining a few more points for Scavenger Hunt… but who are we to judge?). Thin Mints became a staple in our break rooms.

As Woodloch employees, however, fresh baked goods are never really out of our reach- extra breads from the bakery are often left up for grabs to those who need it. As sweet of a gesture as it may be, the treats could be put to a better use. And those thoughts led to the creation of our annual “OPERATION COOKIE DROP.”

Throughout the “off-season” months, each visiting Girl Scout is given the opportunity to donate a box of Girl Scout cookies into our special “Drop Crate” located in our Main Lobby. Upon doing so, they receive a special gift from Woodloch as a “thank you.” At the end of the season, every last Samoa, Trefoil, Peanut Butter Patties and everything in between will be shipped overseas (through the help of our friends in “Operation: Touch of Home”) to the brave men and women serving in our armed forces.  Everyone is invited to drop hand-written letters into our mailbox for the soldiers as well.

The cookies are a warm and happy reminder of home, bringing comfort to those who may be in an uncomfortable place for some time.

They’re a reminder to our protectors of exactly what they’re protecting.

“They’re a small token of gratitude… but it’s a great way for all of us to start,” says Joey Ranner, Activities Director. “I have to smile every time we start initiatives like this- our guests (Scouts and non-scouts alike) spring into action and share that Woodloch warmth with others. Our collaboration has collected almost 10,000 boxes of cookies since we started the program in 2014, and we gain momentum each year. Watching a plan unfold firsthand reminds me of how fortunate I am to work with such good company.”

If you’ve outgrown your berets, fear not- we have extra cookies available to purchase on hand. While you’re at it, be sure to fill out “Letters From Home” to give a shoutout to your heroes!

Scouts posing outdoors in winter. Girl Scouts posing with their Troop flag and Woodloch sign. Various flavors of Girl Scouts cookies. Various flavors of Girl Scouts cookies.

Filed Under: community, fall, reunions, youth travel Tagged With: , ,

Digital Detox for Kids: Woodloch Resort | Hawley, PA

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Woodloch Resort, a Digital Detox for Kids (and Parents)

With another trip around the sun complete and a new untold decade in the forefront, it’s impossible not to reflect on the last 10 years. So much has changed since 2010, especially in the technology industry. For those of us who remember a world without computers, cell phones, and flatscreen televisions, the future can, at times, feel strangely unnerving. That being said, there are a handful of destinations within 100 miles of New York City that foster authentic, old-fashioned family bonding, including Woodloch Resort. Over the years, we’ve become synonymous with “offline retreat” (or “unplug retreat,” depending on who you ask). In fact, we’ve evolved into the most desirable digital detox for kids (and parents) on the East Coast. While we do have complimentary Wi-Fi access and televisions in each guest room, it’s incredibly easy to unplug when there’s an endless array of fun, relaxation, and entertainment at the ready.

  1. A Beach Day. Build a sandcastle, challenge another family to a game of beach volleyball, and fly kites.
  2. Lake Teedyuskung Fishing Derby. Hook a largemouth bass, walleye, or pike.
  3. Family-Style Dining. Every digital detox for kids should include several meals with family, friends, and new acquaintances.
  4. A True Road Trip. Before or after your arrival, plan several rousing pit stops at nearby museums, state parks, or shops.
  5. Embrace Autumn. Grow as a family amid vibrant foliage.
  6. Watch Live Entertainment. Every night, guests can enjoy live music, a theme show, or a daring variety act.
  7. Splash, Swim, and Ski. We boast several swimming pools and exclusive access to Lake Teedyuskung.
  8. Countless Homegrown Activities. A screen detox is so much more natural when everyone is engaged in a variety of competitions, challenges, and games.
  9. Off-Site Hiking and On-Site Snowshoeing. Unlike forest bathing, these two activities can involve as much chatter and tomfoolery as you see fit.

Award-Winning Pocono Mountain Resorts

The Lodge at Woodloch, our sister property, has evolved into one of the premier digital detox hotels near New York City thanks to its world-class spa and gourmet cuisine. Woodloch Pines Resort, meanwhile, remains the top-rated digital detox for kids in the state. If you’re curious about a potential offline retreat here in Hawley, PA, please don’t hesitate to give us a toll-free call at 1-800-966-3562. You’ll never forget your well-deserved, long-awaited escape into the sunny, awe-inspiring Pocono Mountains!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With:

Hip Hip HOORAY – it's National Plan Your Vacation Day! | Woodloch Resort

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Hip Hip HOORAY – it’s National Plan Your Vacation Day!

There’s no greater tragedy than vacation time lost.

When I was younger, I was always told “First, plan your work. Then work your plan.” Perhaps the same sort of thing can be said of leisure time- “Plan your play, then play your plan.”

Americans like to work. So much, in fact, that even when our employers go and GIVE us vacation hours as both a reward and as a deterrent for burnout, that we simply don’t use them all. Collectively, 2018 saw us let 768 million unused vacation days go to waste.

This can be partially attributed to workaholic tendencies (another story for another time), or more objectively, poor planning. We get this wonderful paid time off (PTO), and horde it like squirrels preparing for a long winter. While it’s nice to have the security of time off banked, more often than not, it sits there and is ultimately forfeited when time is not budgeted out.

January marks #PlanForVacationDay, a day established by the U.S. Travel Association for individuals and families to sit down and allocate those valuable hours to good use! That way, you can map out the next 365 days of your life with vacation plans intact! Whether you’re traveling in spring, summer, winter or fall, you’ll be glad you took the time to do so!

Some facts and figures from the U.S. Travel Association:

  • 83% of Americans don’t maximize their PTO. In fact, in not taking advantage of these benefits, we forfeit about $571 in hours back to our employer.
  • 46% of households don’t plan for vacation in advance at all- younger travelers (18 – 34) are notorious for this!
  • 63% of Americans agree (myself included) that they desperately need a vacation
  • 54% of Americans are prioritizing exploring more of the US with their time off in 2021
  • Travel is good for the economy! If Americans maximized their time off benefits, it would create an estimated $151 billion in additional travel spending and about 2 million additional jobs.
  • Travel is also good for you! Multiple studies have linked travel to stress reduction, strengthening personal relationships, and avoiding professional burnout. In fact, professional performance is improved!

When you’re stuck at your desk working through the grind day after day, wouldn’t it be nice to have a shimmering beacon of hope down the horizon? Something to look forward to? What is better than planned quality time with family and friends?

Your friends at Woodloch want you to take advantage of this great and useful day! As a matter of fact, we’re even holding a special #PlanForVacationDay sale in January. Be sure to sign up for our specials- there are 4 seasons of deals at your disposal!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: , ,

Poconos Entertainment, a Woodloch Resort Speciality

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Family-Friendly Poconos Entertainment, a Woodloch Specialty

Woodloch Resort is, without a doubt, a classic American family vacay. Guests can savor family-style meals amid a gleeful hum of laughter and chatter. Children and adults alike can water ski, swim, paddle, and sail on the midnight blue waters of Lake Teedyuskung. The little ones can enjoy arts and crafts like we used to in the old days at summer camp. Families can go head-to-head with other families competing in wholesome, homegrown activities such as the ever-popular Summer (or Winter) Olympics. Hence, it’s easy to forget about our nightly, crowd-pleasing Poconos entertainment, which ranges from eye-popping magic to foot-tapping live music. A number of people actually stumble upon our world-class family resort by Googling “live music near me tonight.”

All-Inclusive Poconos Entertainment

Year after year, our classic American resort enhances the guest experience, whether that’s via modern renovations or brand new games and competitions. And one of the many ways our staff can showcase its creativity is through the rousing, visually-striking Theme Show, which changes every year. We recently unveiled 2020’s theme: “Islands of the World,” an eclectic blend of reggae, calypso, country, and Broadway music. It’s a visual and musical treat that’s sure to be a highlight during your trip. It’s not easy to find family-friendly live music in the Poconos, especially during winter and spring. We rotate musicians—some come and go, while others return time and time again, such as UUU. Recently, New York’s 45 RPM performed countless Woodstock-inspired classics. In the past year alone, Woodloch has welcomed jazz troupes, held wild west hoedowns, and swayed to acoustic fireside jams.

Live Music in the Poconos: A Festival for Everyone

Yes, we host nightly Poconos entertainment, which is included in each package. But don’t forget that there are several nearby music festivals worth exploring before or after your stay. We’re located approximately eight miles northeast of Hawley, PA, on a secluded, mountainous plot of acreage. If you were to search for “live music near me” during your summertime stay, you’d likely stumble upon one of these six kid-friendly Poconos festivals. While they certainly don’t rival New York City’s Governors Ball Music Festival, it’s hard to top good music, tasty grub, and unobstructed sunshine during summer’s peak.

All-Inclusive Poconos Resorts

Don’t forget to peruse our Poconos entertainment page before your arrival to get a taste of what we offer on a nightly basis. We also recommend reading up about a potential wintertime escape, on-site rainy day activities, and the best times to visit Woodloch. And, as always, remember to check our specials page quite often to save hundreds on a family getaway. To book a well-deserved vacation at the best family resort in the U.S., please give us a call today at 1-800-966-3562 (or check availability online).

Filed Under: Entertainment Tagged With: , ,

Woodloch's Guide to Winter Sports | Woodloch Resort

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Woodloch’s Guide to Winter Sports

Winter is finally here, and suffice it to say, the ski crowd is rejoicing! In 2017, the number of skiers in the United States totaled around 14.94 million, and the number of snowboarders that year was about 7.56 million (Gough). They may squabble on the hill, but they come from every background and share similar passions for their respective winter sports.

However, if skiing and snowboarding aren’t quite your speed, that’s okay too! You don’t have to sit the winter out. There are plenty of other options for cold weather play.

SKIING

We’ll start with the obvious. Downhill skiing is by far the most popular winter sport in the United States (Gough). If you’ve never been, don’t fret; skiing is a sport you can learn at any age! People as young as three can be found on family-friendly slopes around the country participating in this 170-year-old pastime. Many ski resorts even offer professional instruction that allows the average adult to hit the slopes on their first day.

We are fortunate to have one of the area’s best learner’s ski resorts just a short trip away from our resort! Ski Big Bear at Masthope features 18 trails for beginners and experts alike. Great Ski and Stay packages are available through midweeks and weekends! 

SNOWBOARDING

If you’re an 80’s or 90’s kid, you probably already have a soft spot in your heart for skateboarding. Given the opportunity, chances are you’d probably jump on the
board and attempt to relive some of your glory days — provided no one is watching.

So here’s the good news: snowboarding is strikingly similar to skateboarding and even surfing. You can take all the same principals and apply them to this winter sport. No, we don’t expect you’ll be doing an Indy Grab off a jump on your first day, but if you can manage to find your core and balance on a board, you’ll feel less intimidated by this thrilling snow sport.

ICE SKATING

A good choice of winter sport for a large group, ice hockey only requires 6 players per team. And with artificial ice rinks popping up in more places, it’s never been easier to just rent your gear for a friendly pickup game.

However, if you don’t have 12 people, there’s something to be said for gliding around in figure eights on a pair of skates. Skating is another kid-friendly winter sport, with some children donning fancy blades as young as three! Try it out on our lake, skating ponds, and even our all-year skating rink! 

SNOW TUBING

It’s like sledding, only way cooler. Ditch your little plastic saucer and itty-bitty sloped driveway, and trade them for an inner tube and a killer hill on the side of a mountain. You’ll find this snow sport at resorts or ski hills throughout most of the Northern United States.

Up to 1,300 foot runs are designed to get you and your tube down to the bottom as swiftly and thrillingly as possible, with ramps and vertical drops along the way. Don’t quite classify yourself as a thrill-seeker? That’s okay! Less adventurous adults and small children can usually find a tamer version of these tube runs at the same location. Woodloch features our main tube hill and longer, faster “X-TREME” run!

SNOW SHOEING

Really just in it for the view? Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the winter months at a slower pace, but don’t let a scenic walk over a blanket of fresh snow fool you. There’s still a certain level of dexterity needed for this activity as your steps must be large and purposeful enough to make headway in sometimes rough conditions. A common suggestion when choosing a snowshoe destination is to try cutting your normal hiking trail length in half and start there.

No more spending your winters wistfully watching the snow fall. Get out and try something new!

Young girl sledding downhill on an inner tube. Parent and child ice skating on Lake Teedyuskung.

Filed Under: Activities, Winter Tagged With: , , ,