Schuylkill River Region

Living in the Schuylkill River Region means access to family-friendly neighborhoods, community parks, local shopping and everyday conveniences that make life feel connected and comfortable. The area sits within easy reach of Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Allentown and Reading, offering direct links to major employers while maintaining a relaxed small-town pace.

Stretching across wooded hillsides, farmland, state game lands and scenic river corridors, the region includes Pottsville, Tamaqua, Schuylkill Haven, Shenandoah, Pine Grove, Orwigsburg and communities like Andreas, Barnesville, Ashland and Deer Lake. Residents enjoy Swatara State Park, Locust Lake State Park, Tuscarora State Park, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary and miles of trails along lakes, forests and waterways. Dining ranges from neighborhood pizza shops and family restaurants to destination breweries, coffee shops and NEPA winery stops that draw visitors from across the region.

Community Life & Local Connections

Community life centers around parks, riverfront green spaces, youth sports, library programs and annual festivals hosted in towns throughout Schuylkill County. Municipalities, arts groups and civic organizations offer steady family programming that supports recreation, youth activities and community engagement. Parades, concerts, holiday events and small-town traditions reflect the region’s strong sense of pride and local heritage.

Whether planning a weekend outing, exploring things to do near Pottsville or choosing a welcoming place to call home, the Schuylkill River Region offers year-round experiences with easy connections to outdoor adventure across NEPA.

The Schuylkill River Region has deep roots in Pennsylvania’s anthracite coal and transportation history. Early communities grew along the river, where timbering and farming supported local families. The discovery of hard coal near Pottsville transformed the area into an industrial hub in the 19th century. Canals and railroads carried coal to East Coast markets while immigrants shaped the region’s towns, traditions and economy.

Today, attractions like Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train, Fighter’s Heaven and local historical societies share stories of the people and industries that built Schuylkill County.

Did you Know?

Many called him “The Great One” or “The People’s Champ.” Early on, he was Cassius Clay and later, Muhammad Ali. He built his personal training camp, Fighter’s Heaven, in the quiet mountains of Orwigsburg. Today the camp is open to the public as a museum and recreation space dedicated to the boxing legend.

Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville is America’s oldest brewery, dating back to 1829, and it continues to offer tours, tastings and annual events.