Where to See Native Wildlife in the Poconos
The Pocono Mountains aren’t just a favorite destination for visitors—they’re also a haven for wildlife. With its rich natural beauty and diverse habitats, the region supports a wide array of animal life, including deer, raccoons, foxes, bald eagles, turkeys, and many other species. See native wildlife in the Poconos at the region's state parks, or visit an education center with the kids and learn about wildlife from a local expert.
Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of the Poconos at Mountain Springs Lake Resort. Explore miles of trails and enjoy the private lake access at our resort before visiting the state parks, wildlife refuges, and education centers nearby:
State Parks and Wildlife Refuges
Discover fantastic wildlife watching at several state parks, less than an hour from our resort in the Poconos. Some of these destinations are home to black bears, so please stay safe and read the six outdoor BearWise Basics before starting your adventures:
Start your exploration at Tobyhanna State Park and discover the wildlife that inhabits the moss bogs and evergreen forests, including salamanders, wood frogs, and a diverse array of birds.
Hickory Run State Park is considered an Important Mammal and Bird Area, home to more than 50 species of mammals and 150 species of birds. Some common sightings include deer, black bears, wild turkeys, mink, garter snakes, timber rattlesnakes, belted kingfishers, and broad-winged hawks.
Visit the Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Stroudsburg for some of the best bird-watching in the Poconos. This wildlife refuge protects an important migration flyway for over 20,000 raptors and 140 bird species.
Education and Nature Centers
Walk nature trails and attend programs at education and nature centers to learn about the native wildlife of the Poconos:
Pocono Environmental Education Center is a great place to engage with nature through hands-on experiences and scenic hiking trails. Sign up for one of their programs and enjoy a range of activities, from bird-watching tours to edible plant walks.
Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center offers something for wildlife lovers of all ages, including educational programs, bog tours, and nature trails.
Long Pond Preserve & Nature Center is home to Pennsylvania's largest population of globally rare butterfly and moth species. Visit the nature center and explore the pollinator garden together.
Escape to Nature at our Pocono Mountains Resort
Mountain Springs Lake Resort offers the perfect destination for nature lovers in the Pocono Mountains. Explore our 325-acre resort and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife in the Poconos as you walk our nature trails and paddle along our private lake. Relax in your cabin rental and enjoy the peace and quiet of our grounds from the comfort of your private porch or patio. From single-room suites to three-bedroom cabins, we have accommodations for everyone visiting the Poconos!