Hickory Run State Park Camping Area

Hickory Run State Park Camping Area stands as one of the most significant and expansive outdoor destinations in the Pennsylvania state park system. Nestled in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains in Carbon County, this nearly 16,000-acre park offers a deep immersion into the natural beauty of the region. Known for its diverse landscape that ranges from trout-filled streams and lush rhododendron thickets to the globally recognized Boulder Field, the camping area provides a home base for adventurers of all types. Whether you are seeking a weekend of solitude in a primitive tent site or a family vacation in a fully-equipped RV, this state park delivers a quintessential Pennsylvania wilderness experience.

The atmosphere at Hickory Run is characterized by its historical charm and environmental significance. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the campground maintains a balance between preserving the wild character of the Poconos and providing modern amenities for visitors. It is a place where you can wake up to the sight of white-tailed deer grazing near your site and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of nearby Sand Spring Run. As a central hub for outdoor recreation, the park attracts hikers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts from across the state who come to explore its 44 miles of scenic trails and unique geological formations.

Location and accessibility are major advantages for visitors coming from various parts of the Northeast. Hickory Run State Park is located at PA-534, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, USA. It is conveniently situated just a short drive from major metropolitan areas, being approximately one hour from Allentown and Scranton, and roughly two to three hours from Philadelphia and New York City. Access from Interstate 80 is straightforward via Exit 274, while the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike also provides efficient routes through Exits 95 or 87. The park is well-prepared for all guests, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking lots, and accessible restrooms and showers in many of the modern loops, ensuring that the beauty of the Poconos is available to everyone.

• Over 380 campsites including primitive tent sites and sites for large RVs.
• RV-specific offerings such as electric hookups (30 and 50 amp), water hookups, and sewer hookups on select sites.
• Modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and warm, public showers available during the peak season.
• An on-site seasonal camp store providing essential supplies, firewood, ice, and refreshments.
• Sanitary dump stations and recycling stations for convenient waste management.
• A dedicated visitor center featuring informative exhibits on the park's history and geology.
• On-site services and maintenance provided by a professional park staff and forest rangers.
• Reservations accepted for standard campsites, camping cottages, and deluxe cottages.

• The legendary Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark spanning 16.5 acres of ancient sandstone rocks.
• Sand Spring Lake, featuring a sandy swimming beach and a seasonal snack stand for summer relaxation.
• Extensive hiking trail system including the "Shades of Death" trail, famous for its waterfalls and dark hemlock forests.
• Hawk Falls, a stunning 25-foot natural waterfall accessible via a short, family-friendly hike.
• A modern playground and open picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for large group gatherings.
• Dedicated pet-friendly camping loops where dogs are welcome to join the adventure.
• Disc golf course with 19 holes located near the Sand Spring Day Use Area.
• Multiple trout-stocked streams like Mud Run and Hickory Run for premium fishing opportunities.

For more information or to plan your visit, you can contact the park office directly. It is recommended to check weather conditions and site availability ahead of time, especially during the busy summer and fall foliage seasons.

Address: PA-534, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, USA

Phone: (570) 443-0400

Mobile Phone: +1 570-443-0400

Choosing Hickory Run State Park Camping Area is worth it for those who want a versatile and educationally rich outdoor experience. One of the primary reasons to visit is the sheer variety of activities available within a single park boundary. Unlike smaller private campgrounds, Hickory Run offers enough territory to keep even the most active families busy for an entire week. You can spend one day swimming at the beach, the next day scrambling across the massive rocks of the Boulder Field, and another exploring the moss-covered rocks and tiered waterfalls of the Shades of Death trail. The educational value of the park, particularly the LEED Silver-certified visitor center, adds a layer of depth to the trip that kids and history buffs will appreciate.

Additionally, the park is highly recommended for its large, well-spaced campsites that provide a degree of privacy often missing in commercial parks. If you are a wildlife lover, the park's healthy populations of deer and various bird species provide constant entertainment right from your picnic table. For RV travelers, the modern loops with full hookups provide the convenience of home while being surrounded by some of Pennsylvania's most beautiful forests. While the natural environment does mean you should come prepared with bug spray for the occasional "gnat" season or mud boots after a Pocono rain, the trade-off is an authentic connection with nature. Whether you are fishing for brook trout in the morning or playing a round of disc golf in the afternoon, Hickory Run provides a comprehensive and memorable retreat that remains a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's outdoor heritage.