So, my family is located in Lancaster, PA. I am trying to get a start on the summer vacation and am hitting roadblock after roadblock. I want to do something different and keep it within a 4 hour drive. We always do the beach, the Poconos, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. I want something outdoorsy, lake side. Not Raystown. I have looked into Deep Creek lake but haven't found the right spot. I also looked into the Finger Lakes but they get pricey. Any suggestions for a family of 4, kids, (7&11). I am picturing lake side, walk to the beach, relaxing fire pit. I welcome any and all suggestions. Thanks in advance
Joe

Deep Creek Lake is pretty and there are a variety of rentals. Did you exhaust the search?

Are you looking at rentals, or only Hotels?

You did not mention your budget. Would something at Lake Wallenpaupack work for you? https://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rental...-wallenpaupack

Prince Gallitzin State Park just outside of Altoona is one of my favorites. You would also be able to do day trips into Altoona (maybe catch a Curves game), the Horseshoe Curve, and even Johnstown. http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/statepar...incegallitzin/

I guess 1 thing holding me back is I am really not planning on an entire week. maybe more like a long weekend. Thur-Sun or so and many places want a weeks rental in the summer. I'm looking for a rental house/cabin, not a hotel. Trying to keep it around $200 per night. I have heard a lot about the state parks but never done it. Their facilities are pretty nice?

The "modern cabins" are usually pretty good, not a hotel by any means but are reasonably comfortable and have their own bathrooms. Another State Park that I haven't been to but a lot of my friends like is French Creek (Pennsylvania) which would be closer to you.

Here's a PDF of Prince Gallitzin's cabins: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/cs/group...cnr_003275.pdf

See if there is anything in Erie PA that interests you.

Like Amy, I haven't been but have heard very good things about French Creek State Park.

Since you're willing to go up to a 44 hr. drive, I'm wondering if somewhere in the Hudson River Valley area might be worth checking out.