Hemlock Campground of Potter County

- 2084 Wharton Rd, Austin, PA 16720

Introduction / Overview

Welcome to Hemlock Campground of Potter County, a true jewel nestled in what locals fondly call "God's Country"—the pristine wilderness of north-central Pennsylvania. Situated along the beautiful First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek in Austin, PA, this family-owned campground offers a year-round, genuine outdoor experience that is specifically tailored for family enjoyment and dedicated sportsmen. The Runkle family and their staff have cultivated an atmosphere that is not only tranquil and scenic but also notably welcoming and "very kid friendly," as described by happy returning customers.

Hemlock Campground is widely celebrated among Pennsylvania residents for its exceptional fishing opportunities. The property runs along a desirable stretch of the First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek, renowned for excellent trout fishing. Furthermore, it features two on-site, stocked ponds, ensuring that anglers—especially children—have fantastic fishing options even when the creek water is high or unfishable after a heavy rain. The on-site availability of fully-equipped cabin rentals, such as the comfortable and spacious "Hemlock Hideaway Cabin," ensures that visitors can enjoy the rustic scenery without sacrificing essential comforts.

This destination truly embraces the Pennsylvania camping culture, offering a secure, safe environment for families and serving as a perfect launch point for exploring the surrounding Susquehannock State Forest. From highly anticipated annual fireworks displays to continuous activities directed toward child entertainment, Hemlock Campground is a complete, memorable, and highly praised getaway for any local seeking quality time in the great outdoors.

Location and Accessibility

Hemlock Campground’s location at 2084 Wharton Rd, Austin, PA 16720, places it squarely in Southern Potter County, a region celebrated for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and access to major state parks and forests. This is a deliberate retreat into nature, yet the location remains accessible for regional visitors.

• The Heart of the PA Wilds: The campground is directly surrounded by the vast expanses of the Susquehannock State Forest, making it a prime location for hunting deer, turkey, and bear, which is a significant draw for local Pennsylvanian hunters.
• Starry Night Skies: A major local attraction, Cherry Springs State Park—famous for having some of the darkest night skies on the East Coast, ideal for stargazing—is located only about 14.5 miles away, making a short, easy drive for a spectacular evening experience.
• Year-Round Recreation: The site offers excellent accessibility for snowmobilers in the winter, as it is situated right beside the Southern Potter Snowmobile Trail system. Additionally, nearby ATV trails provide summer fun for motorized recreation enthusiasts.
• Proximity to Waterways: Located directly along the First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek, the campground provides immediate, convenient access to one of the area’s best trout fishing creeks, perfect for day or evening casting.
• Regional Drive Times: The campground is within reasonable driving distance for many major Pennsylvania cities, including approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from State College and less than two hours from both Williamsport and Altoona, making it a feasible weekend trip.

Services Offered

The services at Hemlock Campground are thoughtfully designed to support an extended, comfortable stay for all types of campers, from those in large RVs to families utilizing a full-service cabin.

• Diverse Accommodations: Guests can choose from RV sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, deluxe and primitive tent sites (some with water and electric), and a selection of fully furnished cabins that accommodate up to 12 people, complete with kitchen amenities.
• Exceptional Fishing Facilities: A key service is the provision of two on-site catch-and-release ponds stocked with bass, pike, perch, and trout, which are especially great for children and teaching them to fish. The campground also offers easy access to the creek and is conveniently located near a station where fishing licenses can be purchased.
• Fully Stocked Camp Store: The on-site store is a critical service, providing firewood, ice, propane refills for any size tank or motor home, live bait and tackle (including custom-tied flies), camping supplies, snacks, and locally made craft and food items like maple syrup and Cooney's Mountain Mustard.
• Clean, Accessible Restroom Facilities: A heated bathhouse with hot showers, flushing toilets, and a dedicated handicap area is available year-round for all guests. The showers are also available to the public for a small fee.
• Campground Amenities: Two dump stations are available for RV guests, along with a propane filling station, a playground for children, a pavilion, and picnic tables and fire rings at every campsite.

Features / Highlights

Hemlock Campground of Potter County’s highlights center on its family-friendly focus, its natural assets, and its dedicated infrastructure that enhances the camping experience.

• Outstanding Family Atmosphere and Events: The campground truly excels with its numerous kid-friendly events throughout the year, including family tournaments, holiday celebrations, and notably "great fireworks display," fostering a fun and secure environment for young families.
• Premier Water Access: The combination of the First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek for serious trout fishing and two stocked on-site ponds for children’s recreational fishing creates a truly unbeatable aquatic feature for anglers of all skill levels.
• Comfortable Cabin Living: The highly-rated cabin rentals, such as the Hemlock Hideaway, offer full amenities including kitchens, bathrooms, and even private pavilions with gas grills, providing a deluxe 'glamping' experience in a rustic setting.
• Direct Trail Access: The ability to snowmobile directly from the campsite onto the Southern Potter Snowmobile Trail, and the close proximity to ATV trails, makes this a seamless location for motorized recreation throughout the year.
• Wildlife and Scenic Views: Situated in a heavily wooded, mountainous area, the scenery is consistently described as "great." Guests frequently enjoy wildlife viewing of Elk, Deer, Bear, and Turkey, reinforcing the feeling of being in deep wilderness.

Contact Information

To secure your family’s reservation for a campsite, cabin rental, or for current information on seasonal events, please use the contact information below:

Address: 2084 Wharton Rd, Austin, PA 16720, USA

Phone: (814) 647-8403

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For local Pennsylvanians, Hemlock Campground of Potter County represents the ideal marriage of wild, rugged adventure and comfortable, family-centric recreation. Its suitability is rooted in its dedication to the traditional outdoor pursuits beloved by the local community: excellent, accessible fishing, prime hunting grounds, and direct access to the state's snowmobile and ATV trail systems.

Furthermore, the Runkle family and their staff have successfully created a welcoming, secure, and highly engaging environment, particularly for children, with planned events and a superior level of helpfulness. When seeking a hassle-free, memory-making family getaway or a highly-functional base for a hunting or fishing expedition, Hemlock Campground provides the perfect mix of location, amenities, and authentic Pennsylvania Wilds hospitality. It is a place where locals can easily and reliably escape the stress of daily life and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of "God's Country."

Hemlock Campground of Potter County

2084 Wharton Rd, Austin, PA 16720, USA