🌤 Weather at Varden Conservation Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22–69 °F | 52–81 °F | 27–73 °F | 14–38 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Hawley 1 E, 10 mi away, elevation 890 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Pocono Wetlands — 965-acre conservation area in the Pocono Mountains — protecting headwater wetlands and glacial bog habitats
Varden Conservation Area protects 965 acres of wetlands and forest in the Pocono Mountains of Wayne County — one of the most ecologically important headwater areas in northeastern Pennsylvania. The Poconos were shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age — the Wisconsin glacier left behind kettle lakes, bogs, and moraines across the plateau. The region receives 50+ inches of precipitation annually — making it one of the wettest areas in Pennsylvania. Varden’s wetlands serve as critical headwaters for streams that feed the Lackawaxen River and ultimately the Delaware River.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Wayne County, PA (Poconos!) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Size | 965 acres! |
| Rain | 50+ inches — wettest in PA! |
About Varden
Varden Conservation Area in Wayne County protects a 985-acre tract in the Pocono Plateau of northeastern Pennsylvania — the glaciated highland that draws millions of visitors annually from the New York and Philadelphia metro areas. The conservation area includes a 36-acre lake and surrounding forest in one of the most heavily glaciated landscapes in Pennsylvania. The Poconos were carved by the Wisconsinan ice sheet, which retreated just 12,000 years ago.
Things to Do
Fishing for bass, pickerel, and panfish in Varden Lake, hiking through glacial terrain, hunting (seasonal), birdwatching, swimming, and exploring the Pocono Plateau landscape.
Insider Tips
Pocono highlands: Varden Conservation Area protects highland forest and wetlands in Wayne County — the Pocono Plateau’s highest terrain. Pro tip: Wayne County is one of Pennsylvania’s best birding destinations — the boreal-like habitat supports species typically found much farther north. Bog ecology: The area contains sphagnum bogs — acidic wetlands that preserve Ice Age plant communities.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Warbler migration and bog wildflowers. Summer: Cool plateau temperatures. Fall: Pocono foliage. Winter: Snowy owl territory in irruption years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sphagnum bog?
Sphagnum bogs are acidic wetlands where sphagnum moss accumulates faster than it decomposes — creating a spongy, water-saturated landscape. Bogs are relicts of the Ice Age — the cool, acidic conditions preserve plant communities that have persisted for 10,000+ years. Pennsylvania’s bogs support carnivorous sundews, pitcher plants, and cranberries — species usually associated with northern Canada.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Prompton State Park (a short drive away) or Archbald Pothole State Park (a short drive away).
Wildlife & Nature
Varden CA — in Wayne County — preserves a forested watershed in northeastern Pennsylvania. The park’s northern hardwood forest, bog, and stream support black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Brook trout inhabit the cold streams. Barred owls call.
Nearby Attractions
Honesdale — nearby. Prompton SP — nearby. Promised Land SP — 20 miles south.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Varden Conservation Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in day-use areas of Pennsylvania state parks and in designated campground sites, but must be physically controlled, attended at all times and leashed, caged or crated.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash required at all times; no universal maximum length — inquire at the park office (electronic fences/shock collars not accepted as control)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited in swimming areas and designated beaches
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Dogs allowed in a limited number of designated cabins, cottages and yurts (pilot program); maximum two dogs per unit; dogs must be house-trained and current on rabies vaccination
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No standard statewide pet fee; fees may be assessed for damage in dog-friendly lodging
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Maximum two non-caged pets per campsite; pets prohibited in buildings; pet food may not be left outside camping units
Are dogs allowed at Varden Conservation Area?
Pets are allowed in day-use areas of Pennsylvania state parks and in designated campground sites, but must be physically controlled, attended at all times and leashed, caged or crated. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via pa.gov. More: Pennsylvania state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Varden Conservation Area
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
