Vacation spot? (Philadelphia, Stroudsburg, Wall: rent, vacation home, purchase)

[PhillyKev]

Hi all, I'm considering purchasing a vacation home in the Poconos and would like some input as to areas to look. Here's some pertinent info:

-I live in center city Philadelphia, from the nearby suburbs.

-Want a small place (I'm single, no kids) that I could drive up to easily to spend weekends.

-Would also like to be able to easily rent it out when not using it for myself.

-Want to be ON the water. I'd like to sit on the porch and look out at a lake or river, and walk down to the edge, throw a small boat in the water and go for a ride. Not particular about what kind of boat, kayak, row boat, small motor boat, just want to get out and fish or go for a swim.

-I want to be on a wooded lot. No yard, or garden.

-Want to be within a half hour or so of skiing.

-I'd prefer not to be in a managed community.

-I'm somewhat familiar with the Tannersville and Stroudsburg areas but not much else up there other than driving through.

-I'd be purchasing next year, but want to start making weekend trips up to check out different areas. Will be at Lake Wallenpaupack over Labor Day.

Basically, I'd be happy with a little cabin in the woods with modern plumbing/amenities, as far from neighbors as possible, while still being within easy access to shopping, skiing, and like I said, ON the water.

Looking to spend less than 300k.

If you all could suggest some towns, bodies of water, communities, realtors, etc. that I should look into, would greatly appreciate it.

[I LOVE PA!]

I would suggest checking out The Hideout (I"m a 13 yr resident). You can purchase a samll chalet for about $124,000., ammenities are $1100. a yr, and taxes on that size home would be under $2,000. You certainly could get a brand new home for the price range you suggested. The Hideout is near Lake Wallenpaupack, it's website is Hideout POA - Home. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to answer.

[cjseliga]

What about something on Lake Ariel or Lake Henry? There's also Lake Winola, but that's in the Endless Mountains, not the Poconos.

[I LOVE PA!]

I doubt you can get a place on Lake Ariel for under $300,000.

I just saw the ON THE WATER criteria, that is going to be tough to find for that price.