HI - Newtown, Tyler State Park Hostel

Country beauty
For all of the simple folk out there, including those who love simple quiet country experiences at extraordinary simple prices, $18 to $24 per person per night -- this is a bit of heaven. I am a social worker who loves to travel, but can not afford $150 Bed and Breakfast or hotel costs. This lodging is a cross between camping and college dorming, but it's location is in country woods heaven. It is Bucks County at its best. Dark nights with only the sounds of night birds. Horse paths with affordable horse rentals nearby. A covered bridge. The accommodations include dormitory style lodging in an old stone farm house. It smelled of fireplace wood and musty couches and something reminded me of my youth in Appalachia. If you are lucky, you may find yourself in a room alone, as my daughter and I did. Ok, it was our first time and we were on edge the first night. Sleeping next door to strangers in a house was a new experience. Well it isn't anymore. In fact, it can be a great way to meet new people. We felt we had found such a magical secret place, that I hesitate to submit this. If people find out, they may not have room next time I want to remember what silence sounds like or how the full moon looks over a foggy forest. On the other hand its secret could also be its demise if it is underused. Be aware that this is a bit like camping. Bunk beds are comfortable, the house is clean but there were some cobwebs. Lighting fixtures inside are fluorescent. Still there is that sense of history and I believe this is an historic stone farmhouse. Trust me, if the desire is for luxury forget it. It the desire is for peaceful affordable reconnection to nature, find this place in Bucks County's old woods and farmland.

Cold Showers/bad plumbing
Clean and comfortable beds and kitchen. The hot water failed and cold showers for all. One of two sinks in operation in ladies bathroom. Staff cold. A TV with rabbit ears that was full of static and snow. You have to be out by 9 a.m., do a chore, and take your groceries with you. There is no place nearby to get food so bring some with you. I have been in lots of hostels and cannot recommend this one except it is better than camping on a cold rainy night. The park has some nice bike trails. Others in the hostel left after one night also, deciding the cold showers weren't worth staying. If the plumbing gets fixed it might be an inexpensive bed for the night.

Great hosts and a great facility. Comfortable and quiet setting with great cycling in the area. A bit of a logistic challenge if you are without a motorized vehicle, but well worth the effort.

Tyler YH is set in a gorgeous part of Pennsylvania. The managers couldn't be more helpful, obliging and accommodating. The bunk beds are new and comfortable. It's a relaxing atmosphere. I've stayed here at least a dozen times. There are hiking trails and cycling trails.

I love Tyler Youth Hostel.

This was the very first hostel that I ever stayed at in 2000. At first I was a little nervous about staying at a hostel. But my fears were soon quelled when I met Shirley, the manager. She fixed me fresh strawberry pancakes! The Tyler hostel is located in a comfy old farmhouse nestled amongst the trees. It was an excellent first hostel experience!