Swimming, kayaking, and elk viewing all factor into a stay at Hicks Run, a free Bureau of Forestry campground set within campgrounds near Elk State Forest in Driftwood, Pennsylvania. A small creek runs through the area with a swimming hole that works well for kids, and Route 555 gives access to a kayak launch and an elk viewing plot nearby. Sites are limited. Weekends during trout season and fall elk season fill up fast, so reservations are worth checking early. No potable water is available on-site, so plan to fill up before arriving. The hollow setting affects cell reception, though the campground lists cell service as an amenity. Vaulted toilets and picnic tables are on-site, and Hicks Run Campground — Elk State Forest sits about a mile south if the main sites are taken.
Description
The Hicks Run Camping Area is located along West Branch Hicks Run (about 2.2 miles northwest of Route 555). This facility offers 15 RV and tent designated sites (four non-electric tent and 11 non-electric motorized) through a first-come permitting system. A Camping Permit is required from Elk State Forest District office. Contact Elk State Forest District Office for suggestions on where to camp. There is no fee for a Camping Permit.
Reservation Info
Camping permits and reservations are required to stay at motorized, roadside campsites. Reservations are not required for overnight backpacking or dispersed camping, but free permits are required.
When you call to request a camping permit you will need to provide the following information:
- Name and Address
- Home phone number and a phone number in case of an emergency
- Vehicle Description. Make, model and color
- Vehicle license number
- Type of camping – tent, camper, trailer, etc.
- Dates you wish to camp
- Location where you wish to camp (Hicks Run, Gaswell, Dark Hollow, Ridge Road, etc.)
- Number of campers in your group. Groups of ten or more people require prior approval and a letter of authorization from the District Forester.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHicks Run is located in Pennsylvania near Emporium
Coordinates
41.39415161 N
78.27936336 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Hicks Run needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 31 min from State College, PA
- 1 hr 44 min from Williamsport, PA
- 1 hr 47 min from Altoona, PA
- 2 hrs 21 min from Johnstown, PA
