Camping at HICKORY RUN STATE PARK

Overview of Hickory Run State Park

Hickory Run State Park is a 15,990-acre park located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. Renowned for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, the park comprises a mix of dense forests, open fields, and features a striking boulder field which is a National Natural Landmark. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Camping Information

Facilities Available:

• Campgrounds: Hickory Run has a large campground with sites for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. Some spots have full hookups, while others are more primitive.
• Cottages: If you prefer a more comfortable accommodation, there are cottages available for rent.
• Group Camping: Designated areas are available for organized groups.
• Campground Amenities: Hot showers, flush toilets, a camp store, and a sanitary dump station are usually included.

Reservations:

• Camping at Hickory Run State Park typically requires reservations, especially during peak season. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance online or by calling the Pennsylvania state park reservation system.

Regulations:

• Quiet hours are typically enforced from 9 pm to 8 am.
• Alcohol is prohibited in all Pennsylvania state parks.
• Pets may be allowed in designated areas, but make sure to check the park's pet policy in advance.
• Maximum occupancy and vehicle limits per campsite are enforced.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking:

• Hickory Run State Park boasts over 40 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Notable trails include the Hickory Run Trail, Shades of Death Trail, and the Boulder Field Trail.

Fishing and Swimming:

• The park contains Sand Spring Lake, which has a swimming beach open in the summer months. For fishing enthusiasts, Hickory Run and Mud Run are noted for their cold-water fishing.

Sightseeing:

• Make sure to visit the park's famous Boulder Field, a striking remnant from the last ice age.

Winter Activities:

• In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling opportunities on designated trails and areas.

Protecting the Park

• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment.
• Wildlife: Do not feed or approach wildlife, and securely store your food to avoid attracting animals to the campsite.
• Plants: Preserve the park's plant life; do not pick or damage vegetation.
• Fires: Build fires only in designated fire rings or grills and never leave them unattended. Follow all fire regulations.

Accessibility

• The park ensures that people with disabilities can enjoy their facilities. Check for ADA-accessible fishing piers, picnic areas, campgrounds, and restrooms.

Local Services

• Nearby towns provide groceries, gear, and other conveniences. The park's camp store offers basic supplies and firewood.

Weather Considerations

• Always check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for changing conditions, especially if you're camping in the shoulder seasons.

Contact Information

For more current information, to make reservations, or in case of an emergency, you should contact the park office directly. The park may provide seasonal guides and maps to help you plan your trip and navigate the area:

• Park Office: (570) 443-0400
• Reservations: Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks reservations website or call 1-888-PA-PARKS

Keep in mind, the availability of facilities and services may vary depending on the time of year and any prevailing public health guidance, so it's always best to confirm current conditions and rules with the park directly before your trip.