Dispersed camping areas near Middlebury Center, Pennsylvania provide access to the Pennsylvania Wilds region, which encompasses over 2.1 million acres of public lands. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet with a climate that includes cold winters and mild, humid summers. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full hookup RV locations within a 20-mile radius of Middlebury Center.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from campsites: Hills Creek State Park Campground features trails that circle the lake. According to Dave G., "The campsites are fairly spacious with little signs of use. 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."
Water recreation options: Ives Run offers multiple water activities on Tioga Lake. Jeremy C. notes, "Grounds had swimming area and multiple boat launch locations on large man made lake." Kayaking and fishing are popular activities throughout summer months.
Rail trail cycling: The Pine Creek Rail Trail provides a paved route through the region. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Damon O. at Tompkins reports, "Well established campground with many campsites, both with and without hookups. Bathrooms, showers, boat launch, beach, playground, and a camp store. Lots of great trails nearby as well."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at Hills Creek. Rebecca E. notes, "Generously sized park with something for everyone. Clean, good facilities. Good walking, hiking, kayaking. Private sites can be found pretty easily."
Educational programs: Stony Fork Creek Campground offers structured activities for visitors. Greg W. shares, "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife. John S. at Hills Creek describes, "You could get on the trail easily and hike the lake the tempted you from the cabin as the sun glistened off the water. During the hike you would pass a red pine plantation, a reminder of the Civilian Conservation Corps."
What you should know
Seasonal availability constraints: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. At Canyon Country Campground, Sarah M. reports, "Stayed there the August 2-4. Great little campground. Very friendly staff. Minutes away from a town and the gorge. Hiking trail from the campground to the gorge!"
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. James P. notes of Ives Run, "The only draw back is that it fills up quickly and you need to reserve many months ahead of time especially for holidays. Not group camping friendly because of the reservation system."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. Brandon W. at Stony Fork Creek Campground cautions, "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds focuses on family amenities. B C. shares, "Kids had a great time at this campground. Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly."
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance family camping experiences. J K. from Hills Creek reports, "The nature talks were really fun for the kids and interesting for the adults."
Swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming facilities. Missy at Yogi Bear's mentions, "Very clean facilities, lots for kids to do despite Covid. We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain. MJ B. at Scenic View Campground notes, "Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites remain limited at some locations. Carl M. from Scenic View Campground cautions, "The campground is under new ownership and is being renovated. The pool and cabins are being replaced. The camper lots hook ups could use an upgrade."
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. B C. warns about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "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."
