As you enjoy the exquisite outdoors of the Poconos Mountains, take a gander at the wild animals and birds. The lush landscape makes for an excellent home for a variety of wildlife. Wander through the dense greenery at local wildlife sanctuaries in the Poconos and catch a glimpse of squirrels, deer, raccoons and foxes!
Poconos’ wildlife is also home to the majestic American Bald Eagle, hold on tightly to your binoculars and enjoy birdwatching in the peaceful backdrop of the gorgeous outdoors.
Talking about wildlife sanctuaries, here are my top five most favorite and some of the most prominent wildlife sanctuaries in the Poconos. Each of these sanctuaries offer unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and conservation.
Beautiful Butterflies: Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary
Indulge in the unique experience of live butterflies in Jim Thorpe’s very own unique and interactive education center. The Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary offers one of the most unique and immersive experiences, it features super interactive experiences like the indoor ‘flutterarium’ which is a live butterfly lightroom.
The sanctuary also features exhibits for other exotic reptiles like axolotls, turtles and more. They house butterfly and moth species indigenous to Pennsylvania. The flutterarium had to be my favorite experience in the sanctuary. Watching and listening to the beautiful flutters of the butterflies was a wonderful feeling, and you mustn’t miss it!
The Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary Poconos is also known for being a great place for kids. It is definitely one of the popular attractions of Poconos. Your little ones will love the hands-on science based education center, where they can explore the native pollinators and take home with them an unforgettable memory. They also host special programs and outdoor events, take a quick look at their events calendar on the website before you head down.
| Location | 18 Church Rd. Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 |
| Operating Hours | Monday-Thursday: 11-5Tuesday-Wednesday: 2-6
Please note that the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary is temporarily closed and will reopen in Spring 2024 |
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Explore the Wild, in Pymatuning Deer Park
The Pymatuning Deer Park is home to over 250 animals and birds from all over the world, known for being the home to white-tailed deer. It is definitely the most diverse wildlife sanctuary Pennsylvania has to offer. The park features a ‘Kiddie Zoo’ which invites you and your lil ones to get closer to the domestic farm animals! Petting and feeding the animals at the kiddie zoo is the highlight of the experience.
Fulfill your fantasies of being a cowboy or cowgirl by going on a pony ride, where you are guided through beautiful wilderness tracks on horse-back.
Don’t forget to grab a souvenir from their wide range of selection to remind you of your adventures.
| Location | 804 East Jamestown Road Jamestown, PA 16134 |
| Operating Hours | Closed November through AprilReopening for spring on May 11th
From Memorial Day to Labor Day: Open 7 Days a Week: 10AM-6PM After Labor Day: Open on Saturdays and Sundays: 10AM-6PM |
| Fees | Adults: $12Seniors: $10
Children: $8 |
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Learn All About Preservation at Lacawac Sanctuary
The Lacawac Sanctuary is an ecological research station, a nature preserve, and a public environmental education facility. Lacawac is known for the 52 acre Lake Lacawac which is the southernmost glacial lake in the hemisphere and it has been preserved in pristine condition completely free from any sort of development! This lake, among many diverse habitats in the sanctuary, supports a wide range of animal and plant species.
The mission of Lacawac has always been research, education and preservation. They offer brilliant opportunities to conduct environmental research and participate in different education programs. Lacawac accomplishes its mission by collaborating with multiple colleges, universities for a more diverse and rich research experience.
There is something for everyone at Lacawac, especially if you are a fan of hiking, you will find some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Poconos right here at the Lacawac Sanctuary.
| Location | 94 Sanctuary Road, Lake Ariel, PA |
| Operating Hours | 9 am – 4 pm Monday-Friday |
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Bald Eagle Watching, Explore the Birds of the Poconos
The majestic American Bald Eagle is home to the Poconos mountains, where you might be lucky enough to spot a bald eagle just by looking up.
The Upper Delaware River Region is one of the largest bald eagle wintering areas in the United States. There are many ways to spot a bald eagle in the Poconos. Here is how you can try your luck and spot the majestic Bald Eagle:
- You can always try to spot a bald eagle on your own with the help of a map and some light research.
- The Delaware Highlands Conservancy hosts eagle watch bus tours along the Delaware River. These tours not only guide you through eagle spotting but also help raise awareness about environmental issues.
- More than 200 eagles migrate to this region every winter. For the best views January and February are the best times to visit.
- Hawley is a great spot to view eagles, you will actually find them all over the region. The Upper Delaware Region and Promised Land State Park are other great spots for viewing.
Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge
The Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established for the conservation of migratory birds and species under federal trust. Now they are a haven for birds, butterflies, bees and more.
Cherry Valley actually comprises a wide variety of habitats and wildlife. The mission of the preserve is to return the manicured greens and mowed fairways back to nature.
The huge 193-acre preserve has varied terrain, most of it is forested but you can catch panoramic views, and many options for hiking. The hiking trails are truly beautiful, you won’t ever forget the views!
If you are an aspiring photographer whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, the scenery at the Cherry Valley Wildlife Refuge is worth documenting. If you are in search of wildlife and nature photography spots in the Poconos, Cherry Valley is the right place for you!
| Location | Stroudsburg, PA 18360 |
| Operating Hours | Open 24 Hours |
| Fees | free |
Wrap Up
Wildlife sanctuaries and reserves have played a major role in protecting the wildlife in the Poconos. These preserves have contributed immensely in the protection of native species.
Exploring these wonderful sanctuaries firsthand will foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the importance of wildlife conservation. And just a bonus, you can enjoy some of the best views as well.
A trip to the Poconos with your loved ones, exploring nature and wildlife together, doesn’t that sound wonderful? So, what are you waiting for, start planning your escape into nature right now!
For your accommodation needs, HolidayKeepers offers brilliant luxurious properties in Poconos best suited for your comfort.
Get in touch with us now to book your stay!
