Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

This small town located along the Lehigh River (about and hour and forty-five minutes from Philly) is called the "Switzerland of America" due in part to its beautiful scenery, architecture, and mountainous location. Many of its original structures, which were built when "coal was king," have been preserved and restored. History buffs have lots to see and do with attractions like the Mauch Chunk Opera House, Asa Packer Mansion, Old Jail Museum (where several of the Molly Maguires were hanged), The Mauch Chunk Railroad Station (where you can ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway), walking tours, and even "ghost walks."

Jim Thorpe is not stuck in the past, however. The town was recently awarded a top 10 spot on "America’s Coolest Small Towns" list by Budget Travel Magazine. This recognition is due to the fact that many businesses now cater to activities like white water rafting, mountain biking (there are miles upon miles of trails), paintball and hiking.

Jim Thorpe has lots of interesting antique and curio shops, too. And since it is a small town, most everything is easily reached on foot. In fact there is so much to see and do in and around Jim Thorpe, a weekend may not be enough. Well, there's always next time.

Two of Media Camping Center's "Free Camping Program" Campgrounds are just a short drive from Jim Thorpe: Don Laine, and Mount Pocono. You can visit their websites and all the campgrounds in the program on our Free Camping Partners Page
http://www.mediacampingctr.com/links.asp#camping

For more details on Jim Thorpe attractions visit these websites:
http://www.jimthorpepa.com
http://www.jimthorpe.org
http://www.asapackermansion.com
http://mauchchunkoperahouse.com
http://www.theoldjailmuseum.com
http://www.lgsry.com/

© 2009-2010 Media Camping Center