Pennsylvania’s Lower Towamensing Township Zoning Hearing Board granted approval for Getaway House Inc.’s request to establish a campground along Wintergreen Road.
The company had requested a special exception to the zoning ordinance in March, aiming to change the property’s use to accommodate a campground. The campground will be situated on a section of the company’s 190-acre property zoned for rural conservation, where campgrounds are considered permitted use.
Another section of the property not involved in the campground is zoned R-1 for low-density residential use. The entire property is located between Forest Inn Road and Walnut Drive, with Wintergreen Road running through it. The campground will span both sides of Wintergreen Road.
James Ord, the chairman of the zoning hearing board, outlined several conditions for Getaway House to adhere to. These include designated quiet hours, campfire regulations, on-site management, restrictions on the number of campers and their accommodation, and guidelines surrounding guest activities and amenities.
Getaway House is required to limit the maximum number of camping units to 77, in accordance with the submitted plans. If they decide to expand in the future, they must first obtain approval from the zoning hearing board.
The company is also required to provide signage to prevent guests from entering adjacent properties and maintain a vegetation border of evergreens along property lines where residential structures are present.
The zoning hearing board mandates that Getaway House follows the recommendations set forth in a letter from the Aquashicola Fire Department and adheres to all relevant state, local, and federal laws.
Ord explains that the length-of-stay condition “is to prevent this from being converted into some type of long-term development.
Tom Katelhon, an engineer from Kimley-Horn, stated that the next step for Getaway House is to submit land development plans. Although he did not provide a specific timeline for when the campground would be ready to accept reservations, Katelhon mentioned that the company looks forward to being part of the community.
The approval of Getaway House’s campground is relevant to private campground owners and operators, as it demonstrates how local zoning boards and communities can work together to establish new outdoor recreational facilities.
The conditions set by the zoning hearing board, such as limiting the number of camping units and adhering to fire safety regulations, serve as examples of best practices for other campground owners looking to create safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible camping experiences for their guests.
As private campground owners and operators continue to face increasing demands from campers seeking unique and immersive outdoor experiences, the Getaway House approval serves as a reminder of the importance of working closely with local authorities and communities.
This collaboration can ensure the development of campgrounds that contribute positively to the local economy and environment, while providing unforgettable experiences for guests.
It’s crucial to think about the impact of a new campground here. Could it lead to more development and environmental worries? 🌲 What do you think about this situation?