Cowanesque Lake campsites sit at approximately 1,090 feet elevation in northcentral Pennsylvania's Tioga County, just south of the New York border. The lake spans 1,090 acres with 18 miles of shoreline created by the Cowanesque Dam, built for flood control on the Cowanesque River. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping conditions particularly during spring runoff when water levels rise.
What to do
Hiking at Pine Loop: Access trails directly from campsites at Ives Run Main Campground with both wooded and lake view options. "The Pine loop is a pleasant escape for tent campers hoping for a good view of the lake. Note that the access gravel access road to this loop is about a mile to the 'comfort station' with flush toilets and showers," reports Katherine T.
Boat from multiple launches: Launch from several points around the lake with both motorized and non-motorized options. "Grounds had swimming area and multiple boat launch locations on large man made lake," notes Jeremy C.
Visit PA Grand Canyon: Take a day trip 30 minutes south to Leonard Harrison State Park Campground to see Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. "The PA Grand Canyon Visitor center and the Turkey Path (main path down into the canyon) are a short 5 minute walk across the parking lot from the campground," writes Brad W.
Cycle the Pine Creek Rail Trail: Access this 60+ mile trail system from nearby access points. "If you're a cyclist- definitely ride the nearby paved Pine Creek Trail. My husband rode a century on his own on Fathers Day while here. The trail goes through small towns and has spots to grab a bite to eat," says Whitney W.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Lakefront camping receives high marks for both views and access. "I booked site 144 at the primitive sites in Oct 2021. It was a great spot and happily, I was totally alone as no one had booked any of the sites near me. The sites I was located on all had a small piece of water access which allowed you to sit by the water," explains Christopher D. at Ives Run Main Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive consistent positive comments. "Bathrooms were very clean. The swim area is one of the best around. Playgrounds are fun," notes J K. at Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Paved camping pads: Level, well-maintained sites allow for easier setup. "Spots are level and paved. It is always clean. There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," states Stacey C. about Tompkins Campground.
Year-round access options: Several nearby facilities extend camping seasons. "The campground is under new ownership and is being renovated. The pool and cabins are being replaced," reports Carl M. about Scenic View Campground, which offers year-round access.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies by location and carrier. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," notes Bran P. about Tompkins Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill months in advance, especially for holidays and summer weekends. "The only draw back is that it fills up quickly and you need to reserve many months ahead of time especially for holidays," advises James P.
Site selection strategy: Sites vary significantly in size, shade, and proximity to facilities. "During the hike you would pass a red pine plantation, a reminder of the Civilian Conservation Corps," notes John S. about Lawrence Recreation Area, highlighting the historical forestry efforts in the region.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings higher lake levels, while fall offers colorful foliage but cooler temperatures. "Had a great few days here camped in RV next to lake. Amazing driftwood to be had. Good kayaking. Peaceful. Trees. Nice sites if close. I'd go back mid week or off season," suggests Rebecca E.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly," describes B C. at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide learning experiences. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge," notes Amanda H.
Beach swimming options: Designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "We were impressed with the 2 bedroom cabin. The kitchen had the usual plus a microwave, toaster and coffee pot. The furniture was comfortable for a cabin and the porch was delightful to sit on during a rainy morning," shares Barbara S.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for local fauna while maintaining proper food storage. "There is a lot of wildlife around. Deer come right through the campsites. Many raccoons too so you must stow your food in the evening," warns Denice S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Some sites require extended hoses or cords. "This campground is very small, only 12 sites. It is a gravel lot with full hookups located behind a Gastropub with an outstanding menu. All hookups are located at the back of the sites, so you might need a longer sewer hose and water hose," advises Michael H. about Rusted Acres.
Loop selection: Different camping areas offer varying levels of privacy and amenities. "We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," shares Bran P.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have steep entry roads requiring caution. "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.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. Check in advance or use nearby facilities when unavailable at your selected campsite.
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