I got a call recently from a client who after some difficulties in getting her property up and running, was pleased to report that her vacation rental is live, and that in her first month, they generated over $45K in bookings. $45K in bookings for your first month is AWESOME! Their experience is a lesson for us all. Brian and Marybeth invested heavily in their new property in Penn Estates and it shows. In addition to some splendid design and décor inside, they invested heavily outside as you can see from the listing – “The Fifth Season“. No $19 cheap plastic Adirondack chairs, no handmade fire pits, no crappy old grill, they went all in. $45K in first month bookings is proof to me that what a STR delivers outdoors really does matter.
If you’ve ever wondered whether outdoor amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, swimming pools—or even full outdoor kitchens—are worth the investment for your short-term rental (STR), the answer is a resounding “yes.” Especially here in the Poconos, where travelers are looking for vacation homes that feel like city getaways, those that prosper feel like resorts. With our region’s year-round appeal, homes that deliver high-quality outdoor living consistently outperform those with a basic lawn, patio or deck. A hot tub under the stars, a fire pit for s’mores, or a built-in grill and dining area isn’t just a nice touch—it’s the kind of experience that drives repeat bookings and higher nightly rates. Add a Trex deck and your property rises to the top of the guest experiences and, of course, reviews.
Several national platforms back this up. According to AirDNA, STRs in mountain destinations with hot tubs can see a 34% boost in RevPAR and a 26% increase in average nightly rate. Occupancy often jumps by as much as 10%. Other data shows that features like hot tubs, pools, and fire pits can add anywhere from $6,000 to $30,000 in additional yearly revenue. Increasingly, hosts are also adding outdoor kitchens—grill islands, prep counters, bar seating—which create that “wow” factor guests love and offer real ROI during the peak summer months.
We’re seeing this here in the Poconos, too. Local STRs with standout outdoor setups are charging premiums and booking faster. A lakefront home with a private pool in Pocono Summit consistently commands over $800/night. A 4-bedroom with a hot tub, fire pit, and indoor pool in A Pocono Country Place stays booked solid year-round. The outdoor experiences are a major reason why. Homes with full outdoor kitchens—grill, sink, bar seating, and lighting—are especially desirable for family reunions and group getaways, where the backyard becomes the main living space.
Even homes in the $600–$700k range are showing strong STR potential when outdoor spaces are thoughtfully upgraded. I recently reviewed listings in Bear Creek Lake and Arrowhead Lake that, with the addition of a hot tub and outdoor kitchen, could easily move from average to top-tier performers. When guests scroll through listings, the difference between a plain back deck and one with a dining pavilion, firepit, and cooking station can mean a faster booking—and a better nightly rate.
So what should you prioritize if you’re improving your outdoor space? Start with comfort: add a hot tub, a fire feature, and quality seating. Then level up with extras like privacy screening, string lights, and most importantly—a functional outdoor kitchen. Whether it’s a built-in grill or a full chef station, it extends your usable living space and elevates the guest experience. These features create emotional appeal and lead to better reviews, more bookings, and greater pricing power.
If you’re exploring a new investment or want to boost your current listing’s performance, I’d be happy to share comps and walk you through high-ROI upgrades. The Poconos STR market is competitive—but if you focus on outdoor living, your home will stand out and you’ll get clicks and bookings. I’m here to help you find the right community, the right home, and the right features to make it all work
