"People preferring the one-tank vacation trips started about two years ago," Miller said. "It's really taken off this year, as industry forecasters predict people are choosing to travel two to four hours away for vacation. That puts us in a great place with large pockets of people coming from areas like New York City, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia."

The Valley also offers many affordable places for travelers, said Miller, another benefit for families planning a summer vacation.

"With larger places, particularly corporate-run franchises, people are faced with more expensive gate prices, hotels and restaurants," Miller said. "Our area offers a lot more family-owned businesses, such as Knoebels and Reptiland, and places that are perfect for day trips like wineries, antique shops and parks."

According to its own recent survey of overnight visitors, the Valley visitors' bureau reports that visitors prefer to travel to places where they didn't have to spend a lot of money.

"Our area is allowing people to enjoy themselves while keeping within their budget," Miller said. "We're not one of those destinations that cost you a lot of money to have fun. You can go crazy or simply relax with whatever you have in your pocket."

The affordable price of Knoebels, which offers free admission and a $36 per night camping fee, is what has drawn Janet Diaz-Florez and her family to travel from York every summer. Rising gas prices have no bearing on their plans, she said, since her family of four can still vacation for a week for less than $1,000.

"Everything is reasonably priced," Diaz-Florez said. "The kids can swim, go on the rides and play with other kids. Me and my husband really enjoy sitting back and watching them have fun.

"In our opinion, there is no better vacation for us."

E-mail comments to jnorth@thedanvillenews.com.