If you’re considering a move to the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, the Blakeslee neighborhood is likely on your radar. With its friendly vibe, lush green spaces, and array of housing choices, Blakeslee offers a warmth and authenticity that’s hard to find anywhere else. As someone who’s spent time in the area and spoken to dozens of Blakeslee residents, I’m excited to share an honest, neighborly perspective on what it’s really like to live here.
The Community Vibe: Down-to-Earth and Welcoming
Blakeslee has a genuine small-town atmosphere that draws people seeking a quieter rhythm of life. Here, neighbors wave as they walk their dogs along Route 115 or Tobyhanna Creek, and it’s common to run into friends at the Blakeslee Community Center or during local events at churches on Route 940.
The people here range from families who’ve lived for generations in the area to newcomers attracted by the Poconos’ natural beauty. There’s a real sense of pride in community. Folks might meet up for lunch at Robert Christian’s Restaurant or attend weekend craft fairs. While Blakeslee isn’t a bustling metropolis, the heart of the neighborhood beats strong thanks to support systems like the Blakeslee Volunteer Fire Company and active homeowners’ associations.
Types of Housing: Cabins, Colonials, and Cozy Retreats
Blakeslee’s housing stock is one of its most compelling features. You’ll find a diverse mix of homes scattered among the trees and lakes.
- Classic Pocono cabins and A-frames dating back to the 1970s are perfect for those who want rustic charm.
- Modern colonials and ranch-style single-family homes, especially in sections like Greenwood Acres, offer more space for growing families.
- Private communities such as Brier Crest Woods and Stonecrest Park have a mix of year-round and vacation homes, ranging from modest cottages to spacious contemporary builds.
Homes on streets like Switzgable Drive or Crestwood Drive often feature generous backyards—ideal for barbecues or just soaking up the fresh mountain air.
Walkability: Nature Paths Over Sidewalks
While Blakeslee doesn’t have an urban walkability score—sidewalks are few and far between—it makes up for it with walkable green spaces and trails. Residents tend to drive for daily errands, with most necessities along Route 940 or a quick trip to neighboring communities like Pocono Pines.
However, you’ll find people out and about walking in community enclaves or along the shaded roads within neighborhoods. Walking down Tobyhanna Creek Road after dinner or exploring the tree-lined byways around Lake Shangri-La are favorite local pastimes.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in Blakeslee are served by the Pocono Mountain School District, which operates Tobyhanna Elementary Center and the West and East high school campuses a short drive away. While parents praise the small class sizes and extracurricular offerings, many highlight the supportive parent community and dedicated teachers.
For younger children, there are several respected daycare and preschool options in the area. The local library and the Blakeslee Community Center frequently host family-friendly events, from craft workshops to seasonal celebrations. It’s not uncommon to see families packing up for picnics at Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area or youth sports practice at local fields.
Parks and Green Spaces: An Outdoor Lover’s Paradise
One of the top reasons residents choose Blakeslee is the abundance of parks and access to natural beauty.
- Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area, just off Route 115, is a popular hub for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The waterfall trail is an absolute must-see in every season.
- Many homes are nestled around smaller lakes like Lake Sinca and Lake Shangri-La, where you’ll spot kayaks and fishing lines all summer long.
- The Tobyhanna State Park and Hickory Run State Park are both a short drive, offering swimming, hiking, and winter sports.
Green space is more than just a perk here—it’s a way of life. Most homes come with yards shaded by towering pines, and adventures are as close as your backyard or the nearest trailhead.
Safety: Peace of Mind in a Close-Knit Area
Blakeslee consistently enjoys a reputation for safety. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and local fire department are responsive, with neighbors often looking out for one another. With so many residents living year-round, there’s a sense of trust and community vigilance. Streets like Route 940 or Estates Drive are known for low traffic and calm, making bike riding and playing outside realistic options for kids.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
While Blakeslee itself is a largely residential hub, its central location offers easy access to nearby towns and employers. Most residents commute to larger towns like Mount Pocono, Stroudsburg, or even Allentown for work, typically a 20-40 minute drive.
You’ll find essential shops, groceries, and services right in the heart of Blakeslee along Route 940, with larger options—a Walmart Supercenter, Pocono Medical Center—and specialty shops a bit farther out. For remote professionals, reliable internet and quiet surroundings make working from home a pleasure.
What Residents Love Most
Ask any Blakeslee local, and they’ll rave about the peaceful environment, proximity to nature, and neighborly support. Weekend traditions like the Blakeslee Flea Market, dinner at the Jubilee Restaurant, or hiking the falls at Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area are local favorites.
Above all, it’s the slower pace and sense of belonging that keep families, retirees, and outdoor lovers calling Blakeslee home. Whether you’re seeking a full-time residence or a weekend getaway, Blakeslee offers the best of Pocono living—relaxed, scenic, and wonderfully genuine.