Summer getaways are a cherished tradition for many families. While some seek the tranquility of the countryside, others, like us, find joy in the quieter city during the summer months. There’s a unique charm to exploring local farmer’s markets and easily finding parking in our neighborhood when many have left for vacation. We’ve sampled country life before, and while it holds its appeal, for now, we’re content enjoying our familiar cityscapes, especially during a pleasantly mild summer.
Bushkill Falls Welcome Sign
To add variety to our summer, we often take short trips to beloved destinations such as Hershey Park, Governor’s Island, and Kelder’s Farm. This year, we decided to immerse ourselves in the lush greenery of the Poconos, a refreshing change from our Brooklyn surroundings. The scent of fresh grass alone was a treat!
Pathway through trees at Bushkill Falls
Our accommodation at The Villas at Tree Tops was a haven of trees and verdant landscapes stretching as far as we could see. This vacation village offered an impressive array of activities. From thrilling ziplines and tubing to bumper boats, mini-golf, horseback riding, and both indoor and outdoor pools, there was something for everyone.
Stone steps leading to Bushkill Falls
Just a short drive from The Villas lies Bushkill Falls, often called the “Niagra of Pennsylvania.” The prospect of hiking with our children for the first time was exciting. We were eager to explore the elevated trails of the Pocono Mountains, surrounded by pristine streams and ancient rock formations.
Waterfall cascading at Bushkill Falls
We opted for the “yellow” path, a well-known 45-minute loop. Although there were numerous steps, our kids tackled them with impressive resilience, captivated by the beautiful natural environment around them.
Lovers Nook scenic viewpoint at Bushkill Falls
The yellow path provided stunning views of several waterfalls, including the majestic Main Falls, Lower Gorge Falls, Laurel Glen, and Upper Canyon. Each viewpoint offered a unique perspective on the cascading water and surrounding landscape.
Children hiking at Bushkill Falls
After our hike, we enjoyed a relaxing lunch by the picturesque lake before heading to the playground. We also explored the gift shops, checked out the mini-golf course, and enjoyed a leisurely paddle boat ride. We considered the Mining Maze, but by then, the kids were understandably tired out from our adventurous day.
Water flowing over rocks at Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls is easily a full-day excursion with so much to do. Packing lunch and plenty of water is essential. For those not adhering to kosher dietary laws, there are ample food options available within the park, so arriving hungry is recommended!
Wooden bridge at Bushkill Falls
However, for visitors keeping kosher, like ourselves, Bushkill Falls and the immediate vicinity lack kosher restaurants. Local supermarkets, such as Price Chopper, do offer a range of kosher products, including a gluten-free section with good snack options. But for longer stays of a day or two, planning for breakfast, lunch, and dinner becomes necessary.
Lake view at Bushkill Falls
While The Villas provided a non-kosher kitchen that I could have koshered, I opted for a more convenient solution: bringing my Travel Crock Pot. This allowed us to maximize our time outdoors without the worry of preparing dinner later. Each evening, we returned to our villa greeted by the inviting aroma of a hot, ready-made supper simmering in the crock pot. My family enthusiastically devoured their meals, and my husband declared it was time for me to write a slow cooker ebook!
Still lake water at Bushkill Falls
Yes, my travel crock pot dinners were indeed that successful! And I’m sharing some of these easy recipes with you. There’s still time left to savor the joys of summer, so why not set up a slow-cooked meal in your travel crock pot and spend your day enjoying the sunshine and making family memories?
Paddle boats on the lake at Bushkill Falls
Travel Crock Pot Recipes for Easy Family Meals
These recipes are perfect for taking along on vacation, ensuring delicious and hassle-free dinners after a long day of activities. A travel crock pot is truly a game-changer for family trips, especially when you want to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your destination.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs ingredients
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup matza meal
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 can cranberry sauce
- 1 can pineapple tidbits
Method:
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, matza meal, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the marinara, cranberry sauce, and pineapple to the travel crock pot and stir to combine. Form meatballs and add them to the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with rice or pasta for a comforting and easy meal.
Chicken Paprikash ingredients
Chicken Paprikash
- 4-6 chicken bottoms, skin on
- 1 onion, peeled and sliced into rings
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into thick slices
- 4 russet potatoes, cut into thick slices
- Paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Method:
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the travel crock pot, then layer with sliced potatoes and sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with spices and top with chicken, skin-side-down. Season the chicken with spices and drizzle with olive oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This hearty dish is perfect after a day of hiking or exploring.
Easy BBQ Pulled Beef ingredients
Easy BBQ Pulled Beef
- 1 2-3 lb roast (chuck roast works well)
- 1 jar of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced into half rings
Method:
Place sliced onions at the bottom of the travel crock pot. Top with the roast and pour BBQ sauce over it. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Using two forks, shred the beef and mix it into the sauce. Serve in buns, over rice, or mashed potatoes for a crowd-pleasing meal. This is a fantastic option to come home to after a day at Bushkill Falls.
Easy BBQ Pulled Beef served in a bun
More Slow Cooker Recipe Ideas:
Looking for more inspiration for your travel crock pot? Check out these other easy slow cooker recipes:
- Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stoup
- Blogoversary BBQ Brisket
Enjoy planning your next family vacation, and don’t forget to pack your travel crock pot for stress-free and delicious meals!
