Homeschool Trip to Camelback Mountain Resort

There’s something powerful about stepping away from everyday routines and sharing an experience with a strong, supportive community. This winter, our homeschool co-op had the opportunity to do just that with a trip to Camelback Mountain Resort, and it turned into a truly memorable experience. From snowy mountain adventures to relaxed evenings and meaningful conversations, the trip highlighted how valuable it is to learn, grow, and have fun together outside the usual routines. Participants varied in experience, but skill level didn’t matter—everyone was encouraged and supported.

First Impressions: Arriving at Camelback Mountain Resort

Located in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Camelback Mountain Resort immediately sets the tone for a winter adventure. Snow-covered slopes, crisp mountain air, and the energy of guests arriving for fun-filled days create an atmosphere full of excitement.

Camelback is designed to cater to groups of all sizes. It’s large enough to offer a variety of activities, yet thoughtfully laid out so that everything—from lodging to dining to recreation—is accessible and organized. Even minor hiccups, such as lesson times being labeled incorrectly on scan cards, are easily resolved by the resort’s staff.

Pricing Overview: What It Costs (Typical Ranges)

Here’s a snapshot of typical costs for a day trip or group outing at Camelback. Prices vary by season, demand, and advance booking:

Lift Tickets (Skiing & Snowboarding)

• Single-day lift tickets: around $80–$90+ per person on peak days

• Triple tickets (3-day passes): starting around $139–$149

• Kids 5 and under: free when picked up in person

Ski & Snowboard LessonsCamelback’s Ski & Ride Academy offers beginner and group lessons, with pricing varying by length, age, and whether the lesson is private or group-based. Lessons are extremely helpful for beginners, providing structure, confidence, and safety knowledge. Booking online in advance is recommended.

Equipment RentalsSkis, boots, helmets, and snowboards are available for rental on-site. Prices fluctuate seasonally, and reserving equipment ahead of time can save both time and stress.

Snow Tubing & Other ActivitiesSnow tubing is available for visitors of all ages and experience levels. Guests ride inflatable tubes down groomed lanes, with lifts or conveyor systems bringing them back up for repeated runs. Sessions often last about two hours, with typical pricing ranging from $50–$80 per person during peak times. This activity provides an alternative to skiing and snowboarding for those looking for a fun, beginner-friendly way to enjoy the snow.

Indoor WaterparkThe Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark is a major attraction at Camelback. Access is often included with lodging packages. For day guests, pricing varies by date and package, and season pass holders may receive discounts.

Parking & Additional CostsGeneral parking is typically free for day guests, with premium options available. Lodging guests usually receive complimentary general parking.

These ranges help provide a baseline for planning and budgeting group trips.

On the Slopes: Skiing and Snowboarding for Every Skill Level

Skiing and snowboarding are major draws at Camelback. With trails ranging from beginner to advanced, the resort accommodates a mixed-skill group perfectly.

A particularly beneficial part of the experience is that two separate groups of beginners can take lessons, which are extremely helpful for building confidence and foundational skills. For those new to skiing or snowboarding, lessons provide structure, proper technique, and guidance on safely navigating the slopes.

Lessons can make a big difference. For example, children who were initially hesitant on the bunny slopes gained confidence and improved rapidly after taking lessons. By the end of the day, even those who started out nervous were confidently descending beginner slopes with smiles and a real sense of accomplishment. Especially my son, as this was his first experience.

More Than Skiing: Activities for Everyone

While skiing and snowboarding draw much of the attention, Camelback offers additional activities for visitors with varied interests.

The Indoor Waterpark Experience

The Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark offers an indoor winter experience, featuring water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. It provides an enjoyable, weather-proof activity for visitors who want to enjoy water-based fun without needing snow gear. It’s a great complement to winter sports, offering something for all ages.

Snow Tubing: Fun for All Ages

Snow tubing is a popular activity at Camelback for those looking for an alternative to skiing or snowboarding. Guests ride inflatable tubes down groomed lanes with the help of conveyor lifts, making it easy to enjoy repeated runs. Snow tubing requires no prior experience, making it accessible for beginners and families alike. Sessions are often around two hours, and prices typically range from $50–$80 per person during peak times.

What We Would Do Differently Next Time

Every trip offers lessons for the future. One improvement would be to bring walkie-talkies. With a large amount of people spread across slopes, lodges, and activities, finding one another can be challenging. While phones may seem like the obvious solution, cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, and checking phones while bundled up isn’t always practical. Walkie-talkies offer a simple, reliable way to communicate and coordinate meet-up times so we can always be in communication. I would also ensure we were the very first lesson in the morning, so you have the whole day to practice.

Why Camelback Is Ideal for Community and Co-Op Trips

Camelback Mountain Resort is exceptionally well-suited for co-ops and community groups. Its wide range of activities ensures that participants of all ages and abilities feel included, and the layout supports both group gatherings and individual choice.

Standout features include:

• Beginner-friendly ski and snowboard lessons

• Activities for all ages and skill levels

• Indoor and outdoor options regardless of weather

• Gathering spaces designed for community

• A welcoming, energetic atmosphere

  
  

A Trip That Strengthened the Community

Trips like this strengthen the bonds of a homeschool co-op. Shared challenges, laughter, and accomplishments create lasting memories and encourage meaningful connection. Beyond recreation, these experiences foster growth, confidence, and mutual support.

Looking Ahead

We hope to do more trips like this in the future! It was fun and if you are able try it would be a great experience.