Tioga-Hammond Lakes campgrounds occupy a region of north-central Pennsylvania characterized by glacially-formed lakes and rolling Appalachian foothills at elevations between 1,100-1,400 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters often dropping below freezing. Most camping facilities close between late October and mid-April due to snowfall accumulation that averages 40-60 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking to scenic vistas: Access the Turkey Path at Leonard Harrison State Park Campground for a challenging but rewarding trek. "There is a hiking trail that will take you down into the canyon. It is a mile or so and pretty steep, but well maintained. Portions are steps. There are a few waterfalls to view on the way down," shares Denice S.
Kayaking on multiple waterways: The Tioga-Hammond Lakes region provides excellent flat-water paddling opportunities. At Hills Creek State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Good walking, hiking, kayaking. Private sites can be found pretty easily."
Fishing access points: Pine Creek and surrounding lakes offer productive fishing spots. "At the bottom you will pass the rails to trail and run into pine creek. If you walk to the left to where it gets deep. You will find some of the best fishing ever," according to a Leonard Harrison visitor.
Educational nature programs: Several campgrounds host ranger-led activities during summer months. As one camper at Hills Creek mentioned, "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge! Near by attractions: PA Grand Canyon!"
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the area receive high marks for cleanliness. At Ives Run, John E. wrote, "Sites are very spacious and clean. Love it here peaceful and quiet."
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently mention the generous site sizes throughout the region. At Hills Creek, Dave G. commented, "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."
Family amenities: Campgrounds offer various features for families with children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds, Missy noted, "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."
Lake views: Waterfront sites are particularly popular. Christopher D. from Ives Run shared, "The sites I was located on all had a small piece of water access which allowed you to sit by the water and the sites were relatively flat (although not perfect)."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: The more popular Tioga-Hammond Lakes campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. James P. advised about 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."
Weather considerations: The region experiences distinct seasons that affect camping conditions. One Hills Creek visitor mentioned, "I think we picked the week with the most rain of the year to camp but it was still a lot of fun."
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds have active wildlife populations. A visitor to Hills Creek warned, "There are black bears and other wild life at Hills Creek, take care to lock up your coolers!!! We heard some fighting raccoons at night!"
Varying levels of privacy: Site privacy differs significantly between campgrounds and specific loops. At Stony Fork Creek Campground, MJ B. observed, "Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with amenities. At Hills Creek, a camper mentioned, "Lake available for swimming complete with snack bar, including ice cream!!!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Canyon Country Campground, Sarah M. commented, "Great little campground. Very friendly staff. Minutes away from a town and the gorge. Hiking trail from the campground to the gorge!"
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds program special events for younger visitors. A reviewer at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park noted, "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."
Cabin options: For families not wanting to tent camp, several locations offer cabin rentals. Barbara S. reported about Hills Creek: "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement at some campgrounds. Kayla N. advised about Ives Run: "Some site you will need 2 hoses for your water because the hook ups are far from the sites and some of them will have the hook up facing the front of your camper."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. B C. noted 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."
RV site selection: Research specific loops for better RV accommodations. Brad W. commented about Leonard Harrison State Park Campground: "The campground is a simple loop of 28 sites. 19 are non-electric and 9 are electric. Sites are spacious and easy to back in to. I believe there are two pull throughs."
Shade availability: Consider sun exposure when booking. One camper at Hills Creek observed, "We weren't impressed with the camping area. There was very little shade in most campsites so we were glad we had a cabin."
