Often referred to as the gateway to the Poconos, Pike County sits right on the border of New York and New Jersey, offering a serene escape that feels worlds away from the city—yet is only a 90-minute drive from Manhattan.

With its dramatic waterfalls, historic river towns, and vast state forests, Pike County is where the "great outdoors" truly begins.

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A Paradise for Nature & Adventure

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Pike County is defined by its water and its woods. It is home to some of the most spectacular natural landmarks in the Northeastern United States.

• The "Niagara of Pennsylvania": No trip to the region is complete without visiting Bushkill Falls. This series of eight waterfalls, nestled deep in the wooded Pocono Mountains, features an intricate network of hiking trails and bridges that offer stunning views of the rushing waters.

• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: This massive park spans the border of PA and NJ, providing over 70,000 acres of protected land. Whether you’re kayaking down the Delaware River, hiking the Appalachian Trail, or birdwatching for bald eagles, the "Gap" is the ultimate playground for adventurers.

• Majestic Waterfalls: Beyond Bushkill, you can discover Raymondskill Falls—the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania—and Dingmans Falls, both of which offer accessible trails and breathtaking photo opportunities.

• Lake Wallenpaupack: Touching the western edge of the county, this 5,700-acre lake is the go-to spot for boating, jet skiing, and summer fishing.

 

Historic Charm and Cultural Roots

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While the nature is wild, the towns are refined. Pike County is home to Milford, frequently cited as one of the "Prettiest Painted Places" in America.

• Grey Towers National Historic Site: Visit the ancestral home of Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief of the US Forest Service. The estate is a masterpiece of French-inspired architecture and offers tours of its stunning grounds and "finger bowl" outdoor dining table.

• The Columns Museum: History buffs shouldn't miss the famous "Lincoln Flag"—the blood-stained banner that cushioned President Lincoln's head after he was shot at Ford’s Theatre—housed right here in Milford.

• Zane Grey Museum: Located in Lackawaxen, this was the home of the famous Western novelist. It sits right where the Lackawaxen and Delaware Rivers meet, near the historic Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct (the oldest existing wire cable suspension bridge in the US).

 

The Airbnb Investment Opportunity: Why Pike County?

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For those looking beyond a weekend getaway, Pike County has emerged as a powerhouse for Short-Term Rental (STR) investment. Its unique position as a "commutable wilderness" makes it a high-demand destination for New York City and Philadelphia residents looking for "workations" or quick escapes.

 

Why it Works:

 

Year-Round Appeal: Unlike beach towns that go dark in winter, Pike County thrives in all four seasons. Summer brings lake and river crowds; autumn offers world-class foliage; winter provides proximity to ski resorts like Ski Big Bear and Masthope; and spring is peak season for hikers and anglers.

Affordability vs. Yield: Compared to the high entry costs of the New York Catskills or the Hamptons, Pike County offers more accessible property prices while maintaining strong Average Daily Rates (ADR).

The "Secluded Cabin" Trend: Post-2020, travelers are consistently seeking private, standalone homes over hotels. Small A-frames, cozy cabins with hot tubs, and riverfront cottages in Pike County are currently among the highest-performing listing types on Airbnb.

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What to Know Before You Invest:

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While the region is generally STR-friendly, local municipalities (like Westfall, Blooming Grove, and Greene Townships) have specific ordinances. Most require:

A local Short-Term Rental Permit.

Compliance with safety standards (smoke detectors, septic certifications).

A local contact person who lives within a certain radius to handle guest needs.

Pike County offers the rare chance to own a piece of the American wilderness that pays for itself. Whether you’re buying for the lifestyle or the bottom line, the "Pike Life" is an investment in both nature and future.