The Pocono Mountains are a treasure trove of stunning photography spots, perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes and making cherished memories. Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, the region’s natural beauty offers a picturesque escape for photography enthusiasts seeking amazing photos. From the lush forests to the charming streets of downtown Jim Thorpe, every corner of this area is brimming with Instagram worthy spots. Imagine capturing the vibrant fall foliage as you stroll through the quaint town of Jim Thorpe, known for its beautiful autumn colors and cozy atmosphere. Or maybe you’re looking to perfect your panoramic shots at Mount Minsi, part of the Appalachian Trail, offering expansive views that go on for miles.
Among the favorite locations for capturing the essence of the Poconos are Lake Harmony and the scenic White Haven, where paddle boat rentals provide a unique vantage point for snapping shots of serene waters against a backdrop of verdant greenery. Don’t miss the chance to explore the state game lands, teeming with wildlife and rich foliage, perfect for nature photography. Another gem is the awe-inspiring Boulder Field, a natural wonder that adds a rugged contrast to the region’s small town charm. Whether you’re exploring the quaint streets or the expansive natural landscapes, the Pocono Mountains promise a wealth of photographic opportunities.
For those who love a bit of adventure, hidden waterfalls and wooded areas are waiting to be discovered. These picturesque spots provide not just great photo ops but also a peaceful escape into nature. So grab your camera or phone, and get ready to uncover some of the best photography spots in the Poconos.
Top Photography Spots in the Pocono Mountains
Capture breathtaking views, incredible waterfalls, and unique landscapes in the Pocono Mountains. Here are the top spots that offer fantastic photo opportunities and beautiful scenery you won’t want to miss.
Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap offers picturesque views along the Delaware River. With over 70,000 acres to explore, you’ll find endless places to snap photos. Key spots include Mount Tammany, where you can capture sweeping vistas of the river and surrounding forest. Don’t miss the Red Dot Trail for some of the best views. This location is ideal for sunrise and sunset shots, as the changing light creates beautiful reflections on the river.
Bushkill Falls
Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls features a series of eight waterfalls. It’s a must-visit for waterfall photography. The main falls drop about 100 feet and are the most photogenic. Use the network of trails and bridges to find different angles and perspectives. The Lower Gorge Falls and Peterskill Falls are equally stunning. Be sure to bring a tripod to capture long exposure shots of the flowing water.
Big Pocono State Park
Big Pocono State Park offers panoramic views from the summit of Camelback Mountain. At 2,133 feet, the mountain provides expansive vistas of three states: Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Hike the North Trail for sweeping views of the Pocono Plateau and surrounding areas. The diverse landscape, from forests to rocky outcrops, makes this park perfect for both wide-angle and close-up shots. Don’t forget to visit during the fall for colorful foliage.
Rely on the scenic beauty of the Poconos to create stunning photos that stand out. Use the natural light, varied landscapes, and unique features of these top spots to capture memorable images.
Seasonal Snapshots
The Poconos offer a stunning array of photo opportunities all year round. Each season brings its own unique charm, creating perfect backdrops for your photography.
Autumn Foliage
In the fall, the Poconos are covered in vibrant colors. Promised Land State Park is a prime location to capture the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees. The park’s two lakes provide fantastic reflections of the autumn leaves. Trees like maple, beech, and hemlock make the landscape come alive with color. Over at Big Pocono State Park, the elevated view offers a sweeping sight of the multicolored forest.
Winter Wonderlands
Winter transforms the Poconos into a snow-covered paradise. Bushkill Falls is a magical spot where frozen waterfalls create stunning ice formations. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers serene snow-covered trails perfect for capturing the quiet beauty of winter. Ski resorts like Camelback Mountain bring action shots and scenic snowy landscapes. The bare trees and snow provide a clean, contrast-rich setting for photos.
Spring Blossoms
As the snow melts, spring brings a burst of life to the Poconos. Cherry blossoms and other blooming flowers create perfect photo ops. Hickory Run State Park features fields of wildflowers that are picture-perfect. The Lehigh Gorge Trail is lined with colorful blooms and makes a lush green landscape. Streams and waterfalls, rejuvenated by the melting snow, add a refreshing touch.
Summer Sunsets
Summer in the Poconos means long days and beautiful sunsets. Lake Wallenpaupack is an amazing spot for capturing the sun setting over the water. With 55 miles of shoreline, you have plenty of options to find the perfect spot. The warm weather also makes it ideal for hiking up to the summit of Mount Pocono for a panoramic sunset vista. Summertime also means lush greenery and clear skies, giving your photos a vibrant feel.
Hidden Gems for Unique Shots
In the Poconos, you can explore some lesser-known spots that offer unique photography opportunities. From abandoned places to rustic barns and farms, the area is filled with picturesque scenes waiting to be discovered.
Abandoned Places
For a touch of eerie beauty, check out the abandoned areas throughout the Poconos. These spots are perfect for capturing the mystery and decay of forgotten buildings.
One of the coolest places to shoot is an old abandoned resort. Its empty hallways and crumbling pools create stunning contrast and atmosphere. Another great spot is the deserted Summit Resort, where nature is slowly reclaiming the architecture.
Use black and white filters or low lighting for a dramatic effect. Remember to always be safe and respect private property.
Rustic Barns and Farms
For a more quaint and charming vibe, don’t miss out on the rustic barns and farms in the Poconos. These locations offer classic imagery of rural life, perfect for adding a nostalgic touch to your portfolio.
The Promised Land State Park is a good starting point. Nearby, you’ll find several old barns and fields that are great for sunrise or sunset shots. Another excellent location is the Bushkill Falls area, where you can capture both the beauty of waterfalls and nearby farm structures in one visit.
Focus on textures like peeling paint or weathered wood to make your photos pop.
Best Times for Photography in Pocono
For the best photos in the Poconos, timing is key. The “Golden Hour” and “Blue Hour” are perfect for capturing the most stunning images.
Golden Hour
The Golden Hour occurs just after sunrise and before sunset. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, producing soft, warm light. This lighting is perfect for portrait shots and landscapes as it adds a magical glow to your photos.
One of the best places to capture the Golden Hour in the Poconos is at Lake Wallenpaupack. This lake offers an incredible view of the sun rising or setting over the water, with reflections that make for stunning pictures.
Another great spot is Big Pocono State Park. The park offers amazing views from the top, and the low sunlight creates long shadows and vibrant colors in your photos.
Blue Hour
The Blue Hour happens just before sunrise and just after sunset. During this time, the sky takes on deep blue hues, providing unique lighting conditions. This period is great for capturing the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the Poconos.
A recommended location for Blue Hour photography is Hawk Falls at Hickory Run State Park. This spot offers serene river views along the trail, with the falls themselves looking other-worldly under the blue sky.
Another top pick is the summit areas of the Poconos, such as Big Pocono State Park. From these high points, you can capture wide, blue vistas that are perfect for dramatic landscape photos.
Photography Tips for Capturing Pocono’s Beauty
Taking great photos in the Poconos doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, these tips can help.
Golden Hour is Key
The best times to shoot are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The light is softer and gives off a warm glow.
Use a Tripod
A tripod helps keep your camera steady. This is especially important in low light settings, like at dawn or dusk.
Play with Perspectives
Try taking photos from different angles. Get low to the ground or find a high vantage point for a new perspective.
Capture Movement
Waterfalls and rivers are perfect for this. Use a slow shutter speed to blur the motion of the water.
Focus on Details
Don’t just shoot landscapes. Close-up shots of leaves, flowers, or even rocks can add interesting elements to your collection.
Utilize Leading Lines
Use paths, roads, or rivers to guide the viewer’s eye through the photo. This adds depth and makes your photos more engaging.
Pack Essentials
Bring extra batteries and memory cards. You’ll want to be prepared for a full day of shooting.
Explore Different Locations
Places like Lake Wallenpaupack offer great opportunities for sunsets and sunrises. Check out this guide to the best Instagram spots for more ideas.
Experiment with Settings
Don’t be afraid to play around with your camera’s settings. Try shooting in manual mode to have full control over your exposures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the best photography spots in the Poconos can be both exciting and challenging. From scenic outdoor vistas to unique indoor locales, here are some frequently asked questions about the top places to capture stunning photos in the Poconos.
What are some top outdoor locations for photography in the Poconos?
Big Pocono State Park offers amazing landscape shots, especially from the summit where you can see all the way to the Delaware Water Gap. Another great spot is Lake Wallenpaupack with its 55 miles of shoreline, perfect for sunrise and sunset photos.
Where are the coolest indoor photography spots in the Pocono area?
For indoor shots, consider visiting Ed’s Unique and Antique in Tamaqua. This large indoor flea market has a variety of interesting and vintage items perfect for adding character to your photos.
Can you recommend family-friendly photography locales in the Poconos?
The Poconos is filled with family-friendly spots. You can head to any of the numerous lakes for boating and swimming photos. Consider visiting parks with picnic areas and open spaces where kids can play while you capture those moments.
Which part of the Pocono Mountains is the most scenic for photographers?
Big Pocono State Park is highly scenic, especially if you’re looking for wide, sweeping views. The park’s heights give you a clear day view that’s nothing short of spectacular.
Where’s the best place to catch a sunset shot in the Pocono region?
Lake Wallenpaupack is a prime spot for sunset photography. With its expansive shoreline, you’ll find plenty of places to set up and capture the sun as it dips below the horizon.
What are some must-visit attractions in the Pocono Mountains for photography enthusiasts?
Don’t miss out on the No. 9 Mine and Museum for a peek into the region’s history. The historic coal mine offers unique underground shots that you won’t get anywhere else.
