In this guide · 5 sections
Gay Nightlife in East Stroudsburg and the Poconos
East Stroudsburg's LGBTQ+ nightlife is unusual for a small Pocono Mountains town: rather than a strip of downtown gay bars, it revolves around two dedicated gay-owned destinations set in the wooded hills just outside the borough, both on Mount Nebo Road. Together they give the Stroudsburg area a genuine gay scene that has drawn visitors from New York and Philadelphia for decades.
Rainbow Mountain Resort
Rainbow Mountain Resort (210 Mount Nebo Road) is the anchor of the local scene and one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ resorts in the northeastern United States, serving the community since 1981. Its on-site nightclub is the region's only dedicated gay dance floor, with weekend DJs, drag shows, karaoke, and Latin nights, plus cabaret and piano entertainment at the Down Low lounge. The Rainbow Bistro restaurant and bar are open to the public as well as to overnight guests, so you don't have to stay the night to enjoy an evening out. Weekends are busiest, and the resort frequently hosts themed parties tied to holidays and Pride season.
Camp Out Poconos
Camp Out Poconos (446 Mount Nebo Road) opened in 2022 as a members-oriented LGBTQ+ adult campground, and it has quickly become a social hub in its own right. Alongside cabins, RV, and tent sites, it runs a lively events calendar through the warmer months: drag brunches, DJ dance parties, themed weekends, and gatherings at its lounge, The Den. It is 21-and-over, clothing-optional in designated areas, and centered on a saltwater pool and jacuzzi. Check its schedule and membership details before visiting, as access is geared toward campers and members rather than walk-in nightlife.
Where Else to Go
Beyond these two dedicated venues, downtown Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg share a compact core of restaurants, cafes, and mainstream bars where LGBTQ+ visitors are welcome, particularly around Main Street in Stroudsburg. There is no separate gay bar strip in the downtowns themselves. For a bigger club scene, the nearest options are in Allentown, Pennsylvania (about 45 minutes south), which has several dedicated gay bars, while Philadelphia (roughly 90 minutes south) offers a full metropolitan nightlife scene.
Practical Tips
Getting there: Both venues are a short drive from downtown East Stroudsburg off I-80; you will want a car, as they are outside the walkable core and rideshare availability can be limited late at night. Ages and ID: The legal drinking age is 21 and valid photo ID is required. Pride season: The Pocono Pride Festival takes place each June at Courthouse Square in Stroudsburg, and both Rainbow Mountain and Camp Out typically program special events around it. Safety: The Stroudsburgs are generally safe and welcoming; use normal nightlife precautions and confirm event schedules in advance, as programming is seasonal.