Hemlock Hill Campground Frances Slocum State Park

For residents and visitors in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Hemlock Hill Campground within Frances Slocum State Park serves as a premier destination for immersing oneself in the natural beauty of the Keystone State. Located in West Wyoming, Luzerne County, this campground is a central highlight of the 1,035-acre state park. Known for its lush forests and the horseshoe-shaped Frances Slocum Lake, the area provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle of daily life while staying within easy reach of the Wyoming Valley. Whether you are an avid hiker, a fishing enthusiast, or a family seeking a summer tradition, Hemlock Hill offers a versatile outdoor experience tailored to the local Pennsylvania lifestyle.

The campground is thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, providing a variety of camping environments from densely wooded sites to more open areas. Its namesake, the majestic hemlock tree, characterizes the surrounding forest, offering shade and a sense of seclusion that is highly valued by campers. As a state-managed facility, Hemlock Hill maintains a high standard of cleanliness and safety, making it a reliable choice for local families. The atmosphere is one of quiet camaraderie, where neighbors share tips on the best fishing spots or the most scenic trails, creating a community-focused environment that has made it a staple of Luzerne County recreation for decades.

Located at 84P9+W7, West Wyoming, PA 18644, the campground is remarkably accessible for those living in the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre metropolitan areas. The park is situated just off Mt. Olivet Road, making it a short and scenic drive from major local hubs. This accessibility allows for spontaneous weekend trips or even mid-week escapes for those looking to enjoy a sunset by the lake. The entrance to the campground is well-marked, and the internal roads are designed to accommodate a range of vehicles, from compact cars to mid-sized RVs and trailers. For local users, the convenience of having a state-class campground so close to home is a significant draw, providing a wilderness experience without the need for extensive travel across state lines.

The park’s layout ensures that while you are "away from it all," you are never far from essential services. The nearby town of West Wyoming and the surrounding townships offer grocery stores, hardware shops, and local eateries for those who might have forgotten an essential camping supply. Within the park itself, the day-use areas and the campground are connected by a network of well-maintained trails, allowing residents to navigate between their campsites and the lake or pool areas with ease. This connectivity makes the park feel like a cohesive community, where all the best features of Pennsylvania’s outdoors are within walking distance of your tent or trailer.

Hemlock Hill Campground provides a comprehensive set of services to ensure that every visitor has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. As a modern state park facility, it balances the rustic charm of camping with the amenities that make an overnight stay feasible for families and individuals alike. The staff and environmental educators are frequently present, offering insights into the local ecosystem and maintaining the high standards expected of Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

• Over 100 campsites available, including 85 tent or trailer sites and 15 walk-in tent sites for increased privacy.
• Electric hookups available at approximately 30 sites, accommodating RVs and trailers with varying power needs.
• On-site sanitary dump station located conveniently near the campground exit for RV travelers.
• Modern bathhouses equipped with flush toilets and hot showers, maintained regularly by park staff.
• Potable water stations distributed throughout the campground loops for easy access.
• Accessible camping options with ADA-compliant sites and pathways to ensure inclusivity for all guests.
• Educational programming at the campground amphitheater, featuring nature talks and historical presentations.

The features and highlights of Hemlock Hill are centered around the 165-acre Frances Slocum Lake. This body of water is a haven for non-powered and electric-motored boating, and the campground even features its own dedicated boat launch. For those traveling with children, the park is exceptionally kid-friendly, boasting a playground within the campground itself and a large swimming pool in the nearby day-use area. The trail system is another major highlight, offering everything from easy walks around the lake to more challenging mountain biking paths that explore the park’s western ridges.

• Dedicated boat launch and mooring area exclusively for campground guests.
• Excellent fishing opportunities for warm-water species like bass, bluegill, and walleye.
• Large swimming pool with a seasonal snack bar and water slide (available for a small fee).
• Extensive trail network including the popular Lake Shore Trail and the more rugged Maconaquah Trail.
• Pet-friendly camping sites in designated loops, allowing residents to bring their dogs along.
• Large picnic tables and sturdy fire rings at every individual campsite.
• Proximity to the park’s environmental center, which offers hands-on exhibits and seasonal events.

For those interested in visiting or booking a stay, reservations can be made through the official Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system. While the park itself is open year-round for day use, the campground typically operates from the second Friday in April through the third Sunday in October. Contact information for the park office is available for those needing specific site dimensions or assistance with group bookings.

Hemlock Hill Campground / Frances Slocum State Park
Address: 565 Mt. Olivet Road, Wyoming, PA 18644, USA
Phone: (570) 696-3525

When considering why Hemlock Hill is worth choosing, the primary factor is the balance it strikes between natural immersion and family-friendly infrastructure. In a region where private campgrounds can sometimes feel crowded, Hemlock Hill provides the spaciousness and regulated environment of a state park. The ability to wake up in a wooded glen and be out on a kayak within minutes is a luxury that local residents appreciate. The inclusion of walk-in sites specifically caters to those seeking a more primitive, "deep-woods" feel without the need for a multi-day backpacking trip.

Furthermore, the park’s commitment to education and history adds a layer of depth to the camping experience. Learning about the story of Frances Slocum and the local indigenous history at the amphitheater provides a sense of place that enriches the stay. For local Pennsylvanians, choosing Hemlock Hill is a way to support the state’s natural heritage while enjoying a safe, clean, and affordable vacation. Whether it's the sound of the wind through the hemlocks or the excitement of a child catching their first fish at the lake, Hemlock Hill delivers a classic and meaningful Pennsylvania outdoor experience. Would you like me to help you look up the current reservation availability or nearby hiking trail maps for your visit?