Hills Creek State Park sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation in north-central Pennsylvania, where the climate ranges from cold, snowy winters to warm summers that rarely exceed 80°F. The area near Arnot benefits from its location in Tioga County, known for extensive trail systems connecting to the Pine Creek Rail Trail and the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Camping options include traditional tent sites, RV hookups, modern cabins, and specialty glamping accommodations with varying degrees of amenities.
What to do
Hiking through the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon: Explore the scenic trails connecting to one of the state's natural wonders. At Colton Point State Park Campground, visitors can access the Turkey Trail. "Unlike Leonard Harrison, Colton Point on the western rim of the Pine Creek Gorge isn't a tourist hub. The trails aren't built up with steps and the like, but I think the Colton Point Turkey trail is much more manageable even without them," notes Emily S.
Kayaking on Pine Creek: Access Pine Creek directly from certain campgrounds for paddling adventures. Pettecote Junction Campground offers convenient river access. "The location of PJC is perfect for fishing, floating/kayaking, and biking/hiking the rails to trail. There are many nearby hikes throughout the canyon for the more adventures travelers," shares Craig F.
Biking the Rail Trail: The Pine Creek Rail Trail runs through the canyon. "We loved the cabin, the trail by the lake, the easy access to all parts of the Pine Creek Gorge and Wellsboro," reported one visitor. The trail is accessible from multiple points and offers relatively flat terrain suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate having room to spread out. Hills Creek State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its layout. "Generously sized park with something for everyone. Clean, good facilities. Good walking, hiking, kayaking. Private sites can be found pretty easily," says Rebecca E.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the cleanliness of bathrooms and shower buildings. "The shower and bathroom facilities looks brand new. Everywhere you look there is green space. The campground also does nature tours for local flora/fauna," reports Dave G. about Hills Creek State Park.
Easy access to water: Campsites near creeks or lakes are particularly popular. At Canyon Country Campground, "Sites are not very level nor private, but the staff is great and the grounds are walking distance to the canyon. Met some great fellow campers here, biked the river trail, and hiked the state park," according to Pamela H.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty or no cellular coverage. Come prepared with offline maps and information. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," notes Bran P. about Tompkins Campground.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal variations. Spring and fall can be unpredictable with temperature swings. Summers are pleasant but can bring afternoon thunderstorms. Camping season typically runs April through October, with some glamping in Arnot, Pennsylvania available year-round.
Reservation requirements: Little Pine State Park Campground and other popular spots fill quickly during peak season. "We go back again & again. Trees, clean, beautiful. Great kayaking, hiking & fishing and just miles from Pine Creek proper," says Rebecca E. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with activities for children. "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers were clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," reports Penny C. about Happy Acres Resort.
Educational programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge! Near by attractions: PA Grand Canyon! Beautiful! You are also close to a cute little town called Wellsboro! Go and visit for the day!" shares Amanda H.
Swimming options: DB Adventures (formerly Crooked Creek Campground) offers water access for families. "Sites right on the creek! Great for trout fisherman, and those with dogs who love water like ours. Bathrooms were super clean. All the kids seem to love the playgrounds. Staff is awesome and friendly!" notes Patch.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varying site sizes and hookup options. "We stayed in the large loop, which is a peninsula on Lake Jean. Many of the sites have lake views. The bathhouse was clean but not adequate for 73 sites," shares Lee D. about Ricketts Glen State Park.
Leveling challenges: Some campsites require equipment for leveling. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed. We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront," explains Bran P.
Access considerations: Some access roads to luxury glamping in Arnot area campgrounds can be challenging. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight," warns B C.
