Waterpark Profile
Inside Camelback Resort's new water wonderland
By combining a winter ski and snowboard operation with a summer waterpark, Pennsylvania’s Camelback Resort is already a year- round destination, but now with the new $163 million (€144 million) Camelback
Lodge and Aquatopia indoor waterpark, it offers more
adventure than ever before. Paul Ruben explores the impressive offering
Philadelphia, the new Camelback Lodge is expected to draw a varied audience. The 533,000 square-feet (49,517 sq m) facility in Tannersville opened on May 1 and is the largest indoor waterpark and hotel development ever constructed in the US in a single phase. In addition to the waterpark – which is situated beneath a
N
1.5 acre (6,070 sq m) Texlon transparent roof and heated to a comfortable 84°F (29°C) – the building features the Arcadia family adventure centre with more than 100 video, interactive and redemption games, ropes courses, rock
estled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, an area that welcomes 22 million leisure travellers annually from New York, New Jersey and
climbing, mini-golf, blacklight laser tag, adult and kids spas, an arts and crafts centre, gift shops and three restaurants, including the ski-in/ski-out Trails End Pub & Grill. A total of 453 guest suites are offered in multiple configurations. With more than 20,000 sq ft (1,858 sq m) of meeting and event space set against the panorama of Camelback Mountain, it is also likely to be of appeal to business travellers, event and wedding planners.
Camelback Lodge and Aquatopia were developed by a
team that brings a distinct and noteworthy experience to the project. Camelback Resort/Camelbeach Waterpark co- owners Arthur Berry III and Ken Ellis partnered with Pete Helland Jnr, Pat Helland, Tim Lucke and Tim Gantz of Stand Rock Hospitality, who between them have a long record in indoor and outdoor waterpark development and management. Their fruits of their labours have been described by World Waterpark Association president Rick Root as, “a world-class facility."
Unbeatable location According to Ellis, an indoor facility had been the intent ever since he and Berry bought Camelback Resort in 2005. “We felt a mountainside location in such close-proximity to New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia couldn’t be beat,” he explains. “I’ve been involved in the waterpark industry for decades through my other company, Aquatic Development Group (ADG). I’ve never seen a mountainside destination like this, nor a project with this level of theming and attractions. It’s incredible to see all the years of planning and hard work come to reality." "Aquatopia indoor waterpark is appealing to guests of all ages because regardless of what the weather is doing outside," highlights Pat Helland. "Furthermore, families love having a safe, clean and fun place to get away to. Parents are busier than ever and are often looking for a convenient, quick getaway without the expense and hassle of having to
52 LEFT: Venus Slyde Trap! JUNE 2015
Aquatopia!
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