The Endless Mountains region around Hillsgrove sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation within Loyalsock State Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F while fall temperatures drop to 40-60°F with increased rainfall. Camping near Hillsgrove offers access to multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels across forested terrain with limited cellular connectivity.
What to do
Hike the Old Logger's Path: This 27-mile trail loop provides multiple backcountry camping opportunities with water crossings. "Great area. Beautiful views and nice Forrest," reports Mike D. about Old Logger's Path. The trail requires 1-2 nights for completion and connects with several shorter day hikes.
Visit Cottonwood Falls: Located within a short drive from campgrounds, this waterfall area remains less crowded than others in the region. "Do not miss the chance to check out cottonwood falls. Completely stunning location," advises Kate J. from Worlds End State Park Campground.
Explore mining history: Some campgrounds offer mining activities for children with genuine findings possible. "Cool mining for kids. Live music. Great food/bar," notes Shannon C. about activities at Riverside Campground.
Paddle Loyalsock Creek: Access points near Jakersville CCC Camp provide opportunities for kayaking with minimal rapids. "It is close to the Loyalsock Creek and the Loyalsock trail runs nearby so there are good hiking opportunities. The swimming and fishing at Haystacks is also fun and only a short hike," explains John S.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Many campers appreciate the remote feeling of sites within the state forest. "It really does feel like you drive to the end of the world to get to this beautiful park/campground," writes Lee D. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. The park offers both hookup and non-hookup camping areas with rustic cabins.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation means comfortable camping even during summer heat waves. "When it is brutally hot, this Campground is always cool. Large shaded sites that you don't feel like your right on top of the next camper," notes James P. about Pioneer Campground.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night," shares Gregory L. about Pioneer Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Despite the remote location, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "This is the third Pennsylvania state park we have stayed at recently and all get an A+ for the bathhouses. Very clean, heated, and the showers appear to be in good condition," states Lee D. about Ricketts Glen.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal to no cellular connectivity. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," reports Katy R. about Worlds End State Park. Verizon coverage is slightly better than other carriers but still limited.
Permit requirements: Jakersville CCC Campground and other Loyalsock State Forest sites require permits obtained from the forest office. "All it takes is a permit and you can camp at a number of sites with fire rings," explains John S. Permits cost approximately $15 per site.
Limited access in wet conditions: Some primitive sites become difficult to access after rain. "The camping site was very hard to access with my vehicle. Many people have clearly gotten stuck here as there were lots of tire ruts in the dirt," warns Kallan about Mead Road Campsites.
Drinking water availability: Bring containers for water as some campgrounds experience periodic water quality issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered," shares Lee D. about Ricketts Glen.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: Riverside Campground & Riverside Roadhouse and Pioneer Campground offer special Halloween activities. "We love decorating the sites and taking the kids trick or treating. They do a haunted woods that we felt the kids were too young for- maybe next time! They do hot chocolate and goodies in the store during the evening," shares Gayle B.
Dog-friendly hiking routes: Families with pets should explore the lower sections of Canyon Vista trail which offer gentler terrain suitable for children and dogs. "There are numerous trails in both the state park and neighboring Loyalsock State Forest, some of which are accessible from the campgrounds," notes Lee D.
Site selection for tents with pets: Choose sites with wood chip pads when available. "Nice clean sites with grass tent areas," reports Teresa M. about Squarewood Acres Campground, making them suitable for dog-friendly camping near Hillsgrove.
Book early for summer weekends: Reserve campsites 3-6 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends. "Bathhouse was clean but not adequate for 73 sites. The campground was about ¾ full and there was often a wait in the bathroom," warns Lee D. about peak season camping.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many campsites require blocks for proper leveling. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop," notes James S. about Ricketts Glen State Park.
Road conditions to campsites: Access roads to more remote campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees and it gets a little hard sometimes to see where the road is vs a site," advises Gregory L.
Weekend entertainment options: Several campgrounds offer weekend activities and entertainment for extended stays. "Great restaurant on site with music on weekends with local bands or DJs. New Owners have worked hard to improve the park," mentions Dottie about Riverside Campground.
Traveler
