Hillside Campgrounds Introduce
Hillside Campgrounds, nestled in the picturesque Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, offers a unique and secluded escape for the all-male community. Spanning over 235 scenic acres, this private, membership-only destination has built a reputation over four decades as a sanctuary for relaxation, socialization, and authentic self-expression. From the perspective of a local Pennsylvania resident, Hillside is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a vibrant community hub where guests can shed the stresses of everyday life—along with their layers—in a clothing-optional, attitude-free environment. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend immersed in nature or an high-energy getaway filled with themed parties, Hillside provides a safe and welcoming space for men of all walks of life.
The campground’s seasonal operation, typically running from May through September, aligns perfectly with the beautiful Pennsylvania summer. The terrain features a harmonious mix of wooded seclusion and open social spaces, including a serene creek that meanders through the property. The atmosphere is specifically tailored to adult men aged 21 and over, fostering a respectful and inclusive "home away from home" vibe. Newcomers and long-time seasonal residents alike appreciate the thoughtful layout, which places high-energy amenities like the dance bar and pool near the center of the action, while offering quiet, primitive sites deep within the forest for those seeking a more traditional wilderness experience.
Accessibility and modern convenience are well-integrated into this rustic setting. While the campground preserves its natural charm, the owners have invested in infrastructure that ensures a comfortable stay for everyone. The facility accommodates everything from primitive tent camping and pop-up trailers to large RVs and deluxe rental cabins. This versatility makes it a premier choice for Pennsylvanians looking for a local getaway that combines the ruggedness of the Susquehanna County outdoors with the amenities of a resort. With paved access points and clear signage, navigating the expansive grounds is straightforward, allowing guests to focus on the community's lively schedule of events.
- Location and Accessibility
- Physical Address: 948 Creek Rd, New Milford, PA 18834, USA.
- Geographic Setting: Located in the heart of Susquehanna County, approximately 30 minutes south of the New York state line.
- Membership and Entry: As a private club, membership is required for entry; all guests must be men 21+ with a valid photo ID.
- Wheelchair Accessible Parking: Dedicated on-site parking spaces designed for accessible entry to the main office and social hubs.
- Wheelchair Accessible Seating: Common areas, including the cafe and performance spaces, offer accessible seating options for residents and guests.
- On-Site Parking: Free parking lot available for guests, with specific rules ensuring vehicles are parked within site boundaries to maintain the park’s natural beauty.
The services at Hillside Campgrounds are designed to make every stay hassle-free. For the RV enthusiast, the park offers well-equipped sites that cater to modern rigs, including essential electric and water hookups. Those who prefer a bit more "solid" comfort can opt for cabin rentals, which provide a cozy alternative to tenting. Beyond the physical accommodations, the onsite services include a camp store for essentials and the popular Embers Cafe, where guests can enjoy home-cooked meals without having to leave the property. The presence of onsite administrative staff and a dedicated camp host ensures that any needs are addressed promptly, maintaining the high standards that Hillside is known for.
- Services Offered
- RV Camping: Spacious sites featuring concrete pads or level gravel for easy setup.
- Utility Hookups: Standard RV electric hookups (30/50 amp) and fresh water hookups at designated sites.
- Cabin Rentals: A variety of cabins ranging from rustic to deluxe, perfect for guests without their own camping gear.
- Onsite Dining: Embers Cafe offers a full menu of meals and snacks throughout the weekend.
- Camp Store: Stocked with ice, firewood, basic groceries, and Hillside-branded apparel.
- Payment Flexibility: Accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and cash for camping fees and store purchases.
- Sanitation: Clean bathhouse facilities featuring public restrooms and hot showers.
- Pet Services: Dogs are allowed (including inside personal camping units) provided they are leashed and well-behaved.
What truly sets Hillside apart are the features and activities that create its lively social fabric. The "Hillside Disco" and the heated swimming pool are the primary gathering spots during the day and night. The campground is famous for its themed weekends, which range from "Bear Bashes" and "Leather Fetish" events to "Hillside Comic-Con" and festive "Halloween in July" celebrations. For nature lovers, the property boasts a network of hiking trails that offer varying levels of difficulty, allowing for quiet reflection or a vigorous workout among the Pennsylvania hardwoods. The nightly community bonfire serves as the heart of the campground, where stories are shared and new friendships are forged under the stars.
- Features / Highlights
- Heated Pool: A large, clothing-optional pool area that serves as the social center for sunbathing and pool parties.
- Hiking Trails: Miles of private trails winding through 235 acres of forest and along the creek.
- Entertainment: A dedicated dance bar and recreation hall featuring drag shows, bingo nights, and DJ sets.
- Outdoor Amenities: Communal barbecue grills and picnic tables provided at various locations throughout the park.
- Nightly Bonfire: A large, professionally managed fire pit for evening social gatherings.
- Wooded Playground: A unique outdoor space designed for adult recreation and socialization.
- Wildlife Observation: Frequent sightings of local Pennsylvania wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
- Theme Weekends: A robust summer calendar featuring specialized events catering to different segments of the community.
For those planning a first-time visit, the campground office is the primary source for reservations and information. Because Hillside is a private community, it is highly recommended to call ahead or visit their official online portal to secure a site, especially during popular holiday weekends or the highly anticipated "Illumination" event. The friendly staff can guide new members through the waiver and membership process, ensuring a smooth arrival at the "green gate."
- Contact Information
- Address: 948 Creek Rd, New Milford, PA 18834, USA.
- Phone: (570) 756-2007
- Mobile/Text: +1 570-756-2007
- Email: info@hillside.camp
Choosing Hillside Campgrounds is worth it for anyone seeking a true sense of belonging in a beautiful natural setting. Unlike standard public campgrounds, Hillside offers a specialized environment where the "clothing-optional" aspect is paired with a high level of respect and safety. The value lies in the experience; you aren't just paying for a patch of grass, but for access to a world-class entertainment schedule, pristine facilities, and a community of like-minded individuals. The cleanliness of the heated pool and the individual attention given to the bathhouses are frequently praised by guests, making it a standout in the Pennsylvania camping scene.
For the local Pennsylvania community, Hillside represents the best of the Endless Mountains. It manages to feel both expansive and intimate, offering the freedom to be oneself in the great outdoors. Whether you are dancing the night away in the disco, hiking the tranquil trails, or enjoying a quiet moment by the creek, the thoughtful management and friendly atmosphere make Hillside a top-tier destination. If you are looking for a place where the fun never stops and the community is always welcoming, Hillside Campgrounds is an unmatched choice for your next summer adventure.
Location
Customer Reviews
I love this place! Hillside Campground is absolutely incredible, and it has something for everyone.The grounds are beautiful, with a serene creek and a great network of hiking trails. There’s always something fun happening, from the nightly bonfire to lively events in the evenings. The cafe and dance bar are fantastic, and they even have bingo and amazing drag shows.The heated pool is a huge plus, and it's clear that the owners put a lot of thought into creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend this campground and can't wait to go back.
We've been to and drive by a couple other campgrounds on our 3 hour drive north to Hillside. The place has a great staff and everyone is SUPER friendly. The community within will make everyone feel welcome. The planned parties, events and theme weekends assure there's always sometime to do. And then, there are the after hour parties that keep going and giving. Fantastic. We love it and can't wait to return.
This was my third time at Hillside in the last month. The facilities are impeccable, and the staff members are very friendly and accommodating. I've been going during the work week, and it's been very laid-back and quiet. I hope to try a weekend soon when it might be more upbeat.I'm a tent camper. One piece of advice to newcomers. Call ahead to discuss site options. I've found my favorites, sites 107 and 109, but there are advantages and disadvantages to each site.As I said in my last review. I've never camped anywhere with such clean shower rooms. This is a big plus for me. I will definitely be back again before this season ends, and I'm really looking forward to next year.Thanks so much to all of the Hillside community.
I always like Hillside but lately I have two grips about it. Never dealt with a restaurant with attitude you asked to have something changed in your food and all you get is a bunch of grief. The other thing is the DJ everybody says even the perm say he’s lousy. The smoke machine smells like a dead animal why it doesn’t get fixed. I don’t know but everything else the staff is very friendly. Everybody else is friendly. There’s a few perms with still have attitude, but that always is the way But overall I wish they would fix with the highfalutin restaurant with attitude. You’re at Hillside. You’re not dining at some five star restaurant and I’ve been to five star restaurants where they’ll change stuff on the menu for the customer.
This was my first time going alone since my husband passed. Great place to go for male bonding. The staff and other campers were all super friendly and welcoming. Ill be back down in a few weeks and definitely more next year.
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