Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), a private non-profit organization, is located a 46-minute drive away in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. At PEEC, you can find so much! When you visit in March, you’ll have the chance to see migratory birds, red squirrels, salamanders, wood frogs, and more. In June, you can find snapping turtles, fireflies, and songbirds. In the fall, specifically September, you’ll have the chance to see monarch butterflies, raptors, and more. Finally, the start of the Winter Solstice will bring a sense of peacefulness, with many animals adapting to the changing weather. To see a full list of the wildlife you can find at PEEC, the organization has put together a guide for you for each solstice and equinox. Make sure to check out PEEC’s offerings for tours and team building, perfect for your corporate retreat!
Lehigh Gap Nature Center (LGNC), a 51-minute drive from The Swiftwater, is another spot that offers great tours and programs! At LGNC, the wildlife refuge spans a total of 756 acres. There are so many different wildlife sightings throughout this area that LGNC put together a list of them all. Plus, they have events very often, so make sure you check out their website to see what you can enjoy on your next visit!
Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center is the perfect spot to visit if you’re looking for a quick trip- it’s only a 14-minute drive from The Swiftwater! Kettle Creek, established in the 1970s, is a part of the Monroe County Conservation District. This environmental education center offers guests of all ages year-round experiences. The wildlife sanctuary is spread across 166 acres, providing lots of opportunities for guests to learn. Make sure to stop by on your next trip to learn all about plant and wildlife in the Poconos!
In conjunction with Kettle Creek, the Monroe County Conservation District also manages the Tannersville Cranberry Bog Preserve, which is only 11 minutes away! This 1,000+ acre bog is one of 604 National Natural Landmarks throughout the United States. On your visit to this bog, you will be provided with a plethora of opportunities to view various plants and wildlife. Some plants include native orchids and calla lilies, while wildlife sightings can include river otter, porcupines, and even the possible bob cat or black bear. Due to its delicacy, the main portion of Tannersville Cranberry Bog is only accessible through scheduled guided walks. However, there are two trails available for self-guided walks! This is a can’t-miss stop on your next visit to the Poconos.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, an easy 51-minute drive from The Swiftwater, is comprised of over 70,000 acres between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. One popular activity in the area is bird watching, including the American Bald Eagle in the winter months. Other animals you may catch a glimpse of include black bears, fogs, otters, and white-tailed deer. Plus, with 70,000 acres, there are lots of plants to view as well! Some of these are wildflowers, ferns, cacti, and more. If you enjoy hiking, wildlife, and nature, this is the spot for you!
After your nature-filled day, head back to The Swiftwater to relax and rejuvenate. You can take a dip in our 90˚ year-round indoor/outdoor pool or grab a drink from Olivet and relax fireside on our garden patio. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at Olivet or take a quick walk down the sidewalk to Desaki.
