2007 News & Events
June 2007 - Altoona Mirror article on Convention Center Opening
2007 Rates & Schedules Guide (PDF format)
2007 Calendar of Upcoming Events
2007 Chipmunk Chatter (Our Newsletter in PDF format)
Press Releases
2006-2007 Convention Center Construction Progress
Conference Center floor plan.
MEET ME AT RAYSTOWN
Written by: Josh Patt, Partner Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge
When someone says "Meet me at Raystown" the first thought that comes to mind is boating, fishing, and swimming, but Raystown Country has more to offer than just unspoiled wilderness. Huntingdon County has the depth of resources that provide the perfect balance between business and family fun in the sun.
A pristine location nestled in the mountains of south central Pennsylvania, Raystown Lake is the largest man made lake east of the Mississippi River. This ideal location for business meetings or company retreats is an easy drive from all points in Pennsylvania and a short hop from the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas.
Raystown Country is not your typical conference destination. We encourage you to step outside the box and explore our many unique accommodations and activities. Between cabins, cottages, villas, bungalows, houseboats, bed & breakfasts, lodges and hotels -We have something for everyone! And while campfire chats are still the best and most memorable form of meeting in the area, technology and innovation abound with Juniata College and Penn State University in our backyard.
Raystown Country is truly a four season destination with activities and adventures that appeal to the whole family. Our 8300 acres of clean, pure water are a boater and water sport enthusiast's paradise. Water activities are only the beginning of your adventures. Miles of well mapped scenic hiking and biking trails, golf, antiquing, fall foliage festivals, historic railroads and railroad landmarks, Pennsylvania's best snow skiing, and of course relaxing are just some of the activities to enjoy.
A trip to Huntingdon County would not be complete without fishing. Known for its deep, clean water and large variety of species Raystown Lake is a fishermen's dream and is exciting to fish for beginners and pros alike. The big ones are out there and to help find them its best to enlist the services of one of Raystown's famous fishing guides. These expert anglers' intimate knowledge of the lake and its bounty come from years of experience. Local guide, Sparky Price, holds the Pennsylvania Stripped Bass state record of 53lbs. Family friendly Angry Musky Outfitters' guide, Joe Frazier, says he enjoys taking a family out for their first fishing experience as much as he does heading out with the seasoned fisherman. Huntingdon County is also home to some of the country's best fly fishing. Spruce Creek, famous for its rainbow, brook, and brown trout as well as its beauty, has long been a favorite fishing spot of professional anglers and even Presidents!
Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge, Raystown Country's premier destination resort, is at the forefront of the area's tourism growth. Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge not only offers Raystown Lake's only lake front over night accommodations but also boat rentals, water park, full service 650 slip marina, Proud Mary Showboat, and daily children's activities. The Resort's 7 different types of cabins, hotel style lodge, and houseboat rentals offer unique ways to enjoy your stay. "Our variety of accommodations let you custom design your stay. Whether you choose a rustic cabin right on the water, a cozy cottage with fireplace and plasma TV, or a beautiful lodge room over looking our marina you are sure to enjoy your stay," says Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge General Manager Samantha Ocelus.
Raystown Lake is a great lake for houseboats and Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge's and 7 Points Marina's most unique accommodations are its fleet of houseboat rentals. Long time resident, Raystown Lake aficionado, and Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge's Marina Manager Paul Bonfiglio agrees, "You can't stay closer to the lake than on a houseboat. Imagine waking up in a secluded cove with no one around for miles, it's an experience you'll never forget."
Construction is scheduled to begin this winter on one of the area's most exciting projects: The Conference Center at Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge. Huntingdon County's first Conference Center will open in 2006. It will include meeting and banquet facilities with the main ballroom seating up to 300 guests for banquets and 500 for meetings. Conference rooms will be available for smaller groups or breakout sessions for large seminars. All meeting areas throughout this 15,000 sq. ft. facility will have state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment. We will be able to offer our guests the same caliber of meeting facilities with the same cutting edge opportunities they would have in the big city - minus the stress!
With its family friendly environment and picturesque setting The Conference Center at Lake Raytown Resort & Lodge has a distinct advantage over the typical convention center hotel. “We want to encourage groups to bring their whole family,” says Samantha Ocelus, "We can turn a business meeting into a great weekend get away. Where else can you do business during the day and reconnect with your family and roast marshmallows around a campfire at night.” Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge's Director of Sales Sandra Cuthbert, adds, “The flexibility of the space allows us to do more than just business functions. This is the perfect setting for weddings and other life cycle events. The charming surroundings and our variety of accommodations add a level of distinction not found anywhere else!"
Raystown Country is more than just outdoor activities and small town friendly attitude; it is a thriving business and tourist destination. Experience the unspoiled landscapes and renowned Pennsylvania hospitality, while enjoying one of nature's most inviting playgrounds. So come, "Meet me at Raystown!" It's closer than you think!
