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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.”

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!

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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).

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Winter Escape | 5 Ways to Stay Warm | Woodloch Resort

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5 Ways to Stay Warm During Your Poconos Winter Escape

While we’re rapidly approaching autumn’s peak here in the serene Pocono Mountains, millions of families are turning their attention to the coziest season of the year: winter. For those who’re already planning that well-deserved, long-awaited winter escape to Woodloch Resort, we’ve pieced together five unique ways to stay warm during your stay. Yes, you and your kids will undoubtedly want to fill the days with snow tubing, ice skating, and Winter Olympics, but sometimes nothing tops a warm, relaxing mid-day activity on a brisk afternoon. We remain one of the top-rated long-stay winter vacations near New York City (as well as the number one family resort in the United States) thanks to our countless on-site amenities, world-class hospitality, and the surrounding natural beauty.

1. Jacuzzi, Sauna, and Hot Tub Relaxation

Perhaps the best way to thaw out during your highly-anticipated winter escape is by hopping into one of our soothing Jacuzzis, steamy saunas, or our 12-person outdoor hot tub. There are several pool facilities to choose from, including Woodloch Springs’ Sports Complex and our newly-renovated indoor pool. If the kids get antsy, they can go for a dip in the main pool, which is set at a balmy temperature during the winter months.

2. Woodloch’s Indoor Forest Playground

The easiest way to stay warm on a particularly crisp winter afternoon is by staying active. The whole family can choose between indoor games, bumper cars, scavenger hunts, and so much more! But Woodloch’s Indoor Forest Playground is a hit for children between the ages of 3-12. There’s no better way to get the blood flowing than sliding, crawling, and climbing inside this state-of-the-art play place.

3. A Delicious Warm Meal

Woodloch Resort wouldn’t be one of the premier all-inclusive winter vacations on the East Coast without our family-style dining. Most families choose our inclusive meal plans because they’re tasty, economical, and stress-free. The menus rotate and change to ensure that return guests don’t savor the same meal twice. Some of the entrees that we’ve served recently include stuffed chicken breast, roast prime rib, jumbo crab cakes, and peppered Chilean sea bass.

4. A Trip to the Game Room

Every Pocono Mountains winter escape should include a full day of snowshoeing, skiing, and forest bathing, but make sure to treat the kids to a couple of hours inside in one of our game rooms. Nothing quite brings life into a child’s eye than a dazzling colorful arcade. We’ve fully stocked these rooms with classic arcade games, air hockey tables, pinball machines, ping pong, shuffleboards, racing simulators, and so many more exhilarating surprises.

5. Gigi’s Coffee House

You’ll always be a hop, skip, and a jump from Gigi’s Coffee House when you stay at Woodloch Resort, even during a mid-winter escape. The cafe is located on Woodloch Pines’ front lawn, just steps from the Main Lodge. This two-year-old coffee shop is an ode to an important member of the Kiesendahl family: Grandma Mould (affectionately known as “Gigi”). Adults love the signature and seasonally-inspired lattes while the kiddos cannot deny the allure of a good, old-fashioned hot cocoa!

Best Destinations in December: A Winter Escape to Woodloch

We’re proud to be one of the best-reviewed East Coast winter getaways. Whether you’re planning a snow trip, annual family vacation, or romantic spa getaway, you’ll never forget your winter escape into the snow-capped Pocono Mountains. Many of the best winter road trips run through our delightful, snowy wonderland—we’re a short drive from Lake Wallenpaupack, Bushkill Falls, Promised Land State Park, and so many more natural marvels. For even more quintessential Poconos winter activities and trip ideas, please visit our fun blog page!

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Deeper Connections While On Vacation | Woodloch Resort

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Deeper Connections While on Vacation

Traveling with the whole family can be stressful. Children have different temperments, and they are interested in different things at different ages. It’s basically rocket science trying to perfect a family trip.

So, let’s all accept that we are not all rocket scientists and realize that being perfect isn’t all it’s cut out to be. Sometimes bumps and hiccups are what makes a trip memorable and also what leads to the best laughs. Below are some quick tips to make your next trip the best one yet!

SCHEDULE PLENTY OF FREE TIME

When traveling with your family, realize that pretty much everything will take longer than planned. Keeping your schedule loose and leaving time for adjustment will make the occasional lost toy, meltdown, or hungry fury a bit less stressful.

At the moment, it may seem like a good idea to schedule a non-stop fun-filled day, but realistically this isn’t easily accomplished with kids of any age.
Instead plan a few specific things per day, but leave free time for naps and other things that may pop up. You also may discover other activities that your family loves that you never even considered!

EXPLAIN THE TRIP

Introduce your kids to the trip ahead of time. This will make them excited and also let them know what to expect. Oftentimes when kids feel uncomfortable they are not happy; many unknown factors can take away from the trip’s enjoyment. Imagine a kid going to breakfast at Disney with all the characters without ever seeing pictures of life-sized Goofy? They may get freaked out, but if you introduce them to it prior, they may go right up to Goofy and give him a hug.

This is also a good time to go over your expectations with your children about their behavior on the trip. Inevitably there will be meltdowns from sheer exhaustion, and not everyone will be able to get what they want at all times. Having this discussion with your kids will at least let them know the consequences for unruly behavior.

ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES

When traveling with kids we cannot emphasize this enough: things will go wrong. Lost phones, detours, missed busses, unexpected hiccups are unavoidable, and the sooner we all accept this, the better your vacation will be. There is beauty in imperfection, and usually a good story comes out of it. Keep in mind that traveling with your family is an adventure, and the memories are irreplaceable.

TRAVEL WITH ENTERTAINMENT

Keeping your kids entertained while traveling is crucial for your sanity. Long, grueling plane or car rides can be less than pleasant with bored kids. Bring books, toys, and electronic devices to keep them happy and entertained while trying to get from here to there. Don’t overdo it on the entertainment you chose to bring, but a few small items really can make everyone’s lives much easier.

Fun tip: Disposable cameras are a great gift to give children that are old enough. They can document the trip through their viewpoint and when you get home, it will bring them joy to develop the film and reminisce about the trip.

MAKE A LIST OF WHAT TO PACK

It may seem like a hassle to make a list of what to pack prior to your trip, but it is a lifesaver. This way you can visually see everything you need and prevent yourself from overpacking or forgetting key items. For some reason, it always seems to happen that we pack things we never even touch and forget the most important stuff.

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Woodloch's Islands of the World | Woodloch Resort

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Woodloch’s “Islands of the World”

Come “sail away” with us and our 2020 Broadway-style Theme Show!

The smell of salt lingers in the air, the sound of seagulls cries in the distance, the sunshine warms your shoulders, and the ocean breeze gently tossles your hair. You’re on a beautiful tropical ISLAND… if only in your mind!

One can’t deny the gusto of island life, especially set to music! That’s why we are charting the course for a very special theme show in 2020 as Woodloch presents “Islands of the World!”

“2020’s show echoes our very first theme night, which paid homage to our 50th state, Hawaii,” says show producer. “That was 1967, it’s safe to say things have changed a little bit since then! Still, this is a nice little tribute to those days for some of our guests who will remember!”

The night begins with a scrumptious 4-course dinner as you are greeted in our dining room by an eccentric cast of costumed characters. A star-studded parade and photo op precedes dancing in our Heritage Club before the curtain rises on our show! That’s when a fresh musical production featuring plenty of tropical flair delights all ages. Calypso and reggae music, a twist of country, and a few Broadway musical numbers coupled with professional singers, dancers, pyrotechnics and a 22-foot LED screen make for a truly memorable production!

“Every year as our current show draws to an end, we work diligently to ensure that next year’s production raises the bar,” says Brad Kiesendahl, owner. “I can say for sure that we are very excited to bring new thrills and smiles to our guests this year!”

Woodloch’s 2020 Theme Show will premiere during our Christmas / New Year’s package and run throughout the year.

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