11 Secluded Towns in Pennsylvania

There is more to Pennsylvania than its major metropolitan areas. Beyond the bustling big-city atmospheres of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the Keystone State safely harbors scores of delightful small towns that rarely come up in conversations about the region despite their merits. Though perhaps overlooked, these communities maintain an irresistible charm, preserving historic Main Streets, pastoral idylls, and small-town warmth in a world increasingly focused on fast-paced digital distractions.

Heading off the beaten path along the fringes of the state exposes you to under-the-radar locations ripe for exploration. Whether hiking hilly trails at the base of the Pocono Mountains in East Stroudsburg or getting lost in Renovo's endless wilderness, set the stage for eye-opening encounters in these isolated towns in Pennsylvania.

Ohiopyle

This charming village in Fayette County feels far removed from civilization, surrounded by Ohiopyle State Park. You won't bump into many bodies when roaming this expansive wilderness, but there is no shortage of visual spectacles to soak in. The reserve is defined by rugged natural beauty, featuring gorgeous waterfalls, dramatic ledges, and stunning rock slabs. Unsurprisingly, adventurers come from around the state to immerse in hiking, camping, sightseeing, and more.

One of the best spots to hike inside the park is Natural Water Slides, where rushing waters carve through a twisting channel of sandstone rock, creating an awe-inspiring scene. Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours take guests on wild whitewater rafting excursions on the choppy waters of the Youghiogheny River.

Wellsboro

Steeped in rugged natural surroundings, Wellsboro is a great spot for those looking to get lost in the great outdoors. The town is famous for housing the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, also known as Pine Creek Gorge. With depths reaching 1,500 feet, this natural wonder attracts admirers who come to photograph it, hike through its wilderness, and bike along the Pine Creek Rail Trail.

Wellsboro also hosts Hills Creek State Park, which straddles over 400 acres of woods that turn into a brilliant show of color. The nature zone is a recreational hub for hikers, picnickers, boaters, and even kayakers. Beyond the isolated backcountry, downtown Wellsboro provides a welcoming atmosphere where you can meet the locals. If you appreciate the arts, stop by Gmeiner Art & Cultural Center to peruse intimate creations by local artists.

Eagles Mere

Nestled within the rolling mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, this small borough feels deserted with less than 200 permanent residents. But come summer, thousands of visitors descend upon it to take advantage of the cool waters of Eagles Mere Lake. The private reservoir fuels different aquatic fun, from boating and kayaking to paddleboarding. Interesting history stays hidden in this tiny village, which visitors can uncover at the Eagles Mere Museum. Various artifacts, including artwork, glassware, and other exhibits, chronicle the town's curious past.

Meanwhile, the Eagles Mere Air Museum is a must-visit for aircraft enthusiasts. This remarkable facility houses an impressive collection of antique airplanes, engines, and related relics dating back to the golden age of flying.

Coudersport

Home to multiple state parks and bordering several others, Coudersport has a remote feel that appeals to ardent outdoorsmen. Tourists have every reason to step outside and explore the lush wilderness of Cherry Springs State Park. The 82-acre reserve stands out for the network of black cherry trees dotting its territory, and its clear, wide skies are designed for stargazing. Additionally, Patterson State Park offers more out-of-door adventures with two rustic pavilions for picnickers and pleasant trails leading up to the Susquehannock Trail.

If you are not keen on hiking or trail running, you can find remarkable pursuits in the quiet downtown area, especially inside the Eliot Ness Museum. This Main Street gem exhibits antique automobiles and historical information about Eliot Ness of The Untouchables.

Benton

This tiny hamlet of Columbia County strikes a balance between natural and social attractions, proving to be accommodating to all personality types. Vacationers who treasure isolated getaways to spend quality alone time can venture onto the quiet trails of Ricketts Glen State Park. Spanning over 13,000 acres, the sanctuary is recognized for having at least 20 gorgeous waterfalls, highlighted by Ganoga Falls. It is a favorite escape for anglers, hikers, campers, and sightseers. Those who don't mind having a few people around can join peers for laidback golfing rounds at Mill Race Golf & Camping Resort.

Conversely, if you are all about socializing and meeting new people, you will love the atmosphere of Retherfold's Village Farm Market and Antiques. Besides mingling with the friendly locals, you can shop for fresh produce, antiques, and some of the best pumpkins in the area.

Bellefonte

Situated in the southern section of Pennsylvania Wilds, this adorable destination is famous for its beautiful nature and vibrant downtown. Fans of open spaces naturally gravitate towards Talleyrand Park, which provides a cute waterfront area to relax under a cool shade of greenery. A little farther from the city's core, Sunnyside Paddle Park invites foreigners for some fun on the waters of Spring Creek, featuring whitewater paddling.

Meanwhile, the Bellefonte Museum of Art cultures guests with an impressive collection of artwork with historical significance. Many are left in awe of the piece paying tribute to the work of the Underground Railway.

Renovo

Many travelers consider this hidden gem of Clinton County among the most remote towns in Pennsylvania. It is the ultimate getaway for nature lovers along the banks of the Susquehanna River and is surrounded by the undulating wilderness of Kettle Creek State Park. With 1,793 acres of pristine forestland, the sanctuary has a lovely lake where guests can enjoy various watersports.

Renovo also hosts Sproul State Forest, which covers over 300,000 acres and places you in the middle of nowhere. These lush surroundings transform the town into a colorful wonderland in autumn, making Renovo's annual Flaming Foliage Festival one of the most visually appealing fall festivals in Pennsylvania.

East Stroudsburg

East Stroudsburg is a popular stop in the Pocono Mountains region. It entices visitors with exquisite natural scenery, a bustling downtown, and notable historical sites. Nature lovers looking to venture outside will feel at home inside Yetter Park. This lovely preserve harbors miles of wooded trails ripe for hiking and a serene atmosphere shielded from the downtown noise. Meanwhile, the Pocono Snake & Animal Farm is home to various reptilian species and has a petting zoo where guests can get up close with cute wildlife.

Those who prefer to stay within the urban confines can delve into local history at the Pocono Indian Museum. The venue traces the chronology of the Delaware Indians through a range of relics and artifacts, including archaic weapons, tools, clothing, etc.

Mifflinburg

This central Pennsylvania village in the Susquehanna River Valley houses a community of German immigrant descendants. Its outdoor landscape is defined by farmland and park wildernesses, including Raymond B. Winter State Park. The site promises year-round recreation across its 695-acre expanse, from camping and hiking to boating, and is surrounded by the Bald Eagle State Forest. Mifflinburg presents more adventures at the Sand Bridge State Park, which has peaceful wooded trails and a gentle stream for fishermen.

Elsewhere, the Mifflinburg Buggy Museum exhibits a selection of 19th-century buggies as a window to life in the city at the time. Guests can take a tour with a resourceful guide, who paints a picture of the different contexts of the era.

Lewisburg

Sitting about 30 miles from Williamsport, this adorable community of about 5,000 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to Bucknell University and harbors a lively arts community that often gathers at the Campus Theatre to watch childsafe movie flicks inside a 1900s Art Deco venue. Families visiting will enjoy spending time at the Lewisburg Children's Museum. The magnificent center inspires learning and imagination among young guests through interactive exhibits in a safe environment.

Additionally, the Lewisburg Farmer's Market grants guests a prime opportunity to interact with townsfolk while shopping for fresh farm goods and handcrafted merchandise in a festive atmosphere.

Jim Thorpe

Another picturesque gem in the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is a historic community with lovely natural landscapes. One of the best ways to witness the area's allure is through the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad. This sightseeing tour on a classic train thrusts visitors into the backcountry, promising endless photo opportunities. You can sense the town's past at the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, a delightful Victorian homestead with period artifacts and the former home of a railroad magnet.

Finally, the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center chronicles major events throughout Jim Thorpe's past. Among the exciting lessons to look forward to is how the village came to adopt the name of a famous Native American athlete.

Final Thought

From Renovo's remote charm along the Susquehanna River and amid outdoors exploration to Coudersport's thriving small-town way of life, the discussed towns in Pennsylvania provide enticing evidence of much to expect away from major highways or attractions lists. Immersing in their historic ambiance and natural pleasures ensures lasting memories of pastoral Pennsylvania seclusion. These and other isolated getaways in the Keystone State invite the rediscovery of relaxation in the United States untouched by commercial crowds.