Hills Creek State Park Campground features modern cabins with full kitchens, including microwaves and coffee makers. The campground offers a range of campsites from tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Most sites are spacious with direct access to the lake for fishing. Several hiking trails wind through the property, connecting campers to the broader landscape. The bathrooms and shower facilities are well-maintained, often described as looking brand new. The rolling terrain creates natural separation between many campsites, though weekend periods can become crowded.
What to do
Hiking at Leonard Harrison State Park: Take the Turkey Trail down to the bottom of Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon, a 1.5-mile trek accessible to various age groups. "The Turkey Path Trail at Leonard Harrison State Park... has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps. There are a total of 19 waterfalls on your way up, all of them absolutely beautiful," shares Jennifer W. from Leonard Harrison State Park Campground.
Swimming and recreation: Hills Creek's swim area offers a welcome summer activity with convenient facilities. "The swim area is one of the best around. Playgrounds are fun & the snack stand is a little expensive, but delicious! The hike around the lake is not that long and a pretty easy walk. We did it with a 5 year old and he had no complaints," reports J K.
Kayaking on Tioga Lake: Launch your boat from multiple access points around the lake. "Great campground that we use for a layover en-route to NY to see family. Everywhere you look there is green space. The campground also does nature tours for local flora/fauna," notes Dave G.
Fishing access: Many lakeside sites at Ives Run provide direct water access for fishing. "Sites are very spacious and clean. Love it here peaceful and quiet," explains John E. The lake offers ample fishing opportunities with multiple species available.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous site dimensions at most area campgrounds. "Taking everything into consideration, it's hard to find a nicer campground to stay for a night or two weeks... large sites on macadam pads. Large fields behind most sites for activities," writes James P. about Ives Run.
Clean facilities: Area campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathrooms and shower facilities. "This is the cleanest campground I have seen. Staff is friendly," mentions John E. The restrooms at Hills Creek are frequently described as well-maintained.
Nature programming: Educational opportunities abound for families with young children. "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," notes Amanda H.
Pet-friendly environment: Tompkins Campground welcomes dogs with ample space for exercise. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," explains Bran P. Most campgrounds in the area maintain dog-friendly policies with varied space between sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months and holidays. "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.
Limited cell service: Be prepared for communication limitations. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," warns Brandon W. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-April through October. "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," shares Katherine T.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. "Warning, there are black bears and other wildlife at Hills Creek, take care to lock up your coolers! We heard some fighting raccoons at night," cautions Amanda H.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger-led programs. "The nature talks were really fun for the kids and interesting for the adults," notes J K. about Hills Creek State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds (formerly Bucktail Camping Resort) offers extensive children's activities. "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," reports B C.
Easy hiking options: Choose trails appropriate for children. "We did it with a 5 year old and he had no complaints. The nature talks were really fun for the kids and interesting for the adults," shares J K.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities, but check seasonal availability. "The campground pool doesn't open until the end of June. Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming," advises Jennifer W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Canyon Country Campground, consider leveling requirements. "Sites are not very level nor private, but the staff is great and the grounds are walking distance to the canyon," explains Pamela H.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full-hookup sites with electric, water and sewer. "Our site was well laid out. The campground was neat, clean and quiet. The owners were extremely helpful concerning the Pa. Grand Canyon, where to go, the trails, etc.," shares Sheilah C.
Access roads: Be aware of steep or narrow roads leading into some campgrounds. "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," cautions B C.
Shade considerations: Plan for sun exposure at certain campgrounds. "We weren't impressed with the camping area. There was very little shade in most campsites so we were glad we had a cabin," notes Barbara S. about Hills Creek.
