Stand-Up Comedian Jim Gaffigan once quipped that the phrase “happy camper” didn’t make sense because the happiest camper is the one leaving the campsite. As with many outdoor activities, camping seems a polarizing proposition, with some loving the rustic nature of a weekend away from civilization and others feeling like a hobo with a really nice box.
Pennsylvania’s nationally recognized State Park system has everything a dedicated camper could want, with scenic campgrounds and vast hiking trails. But for those just a bit too attached to their modern conveniences, these parks leave something to be desired. In an attempt to win over less rugged nature lovers, Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) opened the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park this month. It’s the first hotel housed in the Pennsylvania State Park system and offers all of the park’s unspoiled glory without having to sleep on the ground.
“Up to this point, the only opportunities for overnight accommodations were either primitive or modern camping facilities, yurts or camping cabins,” says Nature Inn’s innkeeper Charlie Brooks. “We had folks that were not staying overnight when these facilities were not available and I think this was a response to interest from the public to see this type of overnight accommodation.”
According to the Allegheny chapter of the Sierra Club, state park admission had been declining and the hotel provides “a reasonable approach to what are the needs of nature lovers.” The group supports the development where they vehemently opposed previous projects. Their support is due to a long list of nature-friendly features and amenities that show a staunch commitment from Brooks and DCNR to exist in harmony with their natural environment. A geothermal heating and cooling system; solar collectors to heat water for showers and laundry; rainwater collection for flushing toilets; and all local hardwood construction are just a few of the things that make the Nature Inn live up to its name.
“DCNR was charged with designing an attractive, functional building that fit well into the landscape here and it has a number of significant green-building technologies that are ultimately going to qualify it for a Gold certification under the LEED program,” says Brooks. “There is a self-imposed environmental commitment within DCNR and our facilities were designed through them.”
Source: Charlie Brooks, Nature Inn
Writer: John Steele