Hickory Run State Park Camping Area

- PA-534, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

Introduction / Overview

For any Pennsylvania resident seeking the ultimate escape into the Commonwealth's natural splendor, the Hickory Run State Park Camping Area stands out as a true flagship destination. Nestled in the stunning western foothills of the Pocono Mountains in Carbon County, this park encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of rugged beauty, featuring over 40 miles of trails, pristine trout streams, and a rich geological history. The campground itself is the ideal base camp for exploring this massive natural classroom.

Unlike smaller private parks, Hickory Run provides a comprehensive state park experience, designed for both tent campers seeking a back-to-nature feel and RV owners requiring modern hookups. It successfully strikes a balance, offering the convenience of modern facilities while immersing visitors in a dense, towering forest environment. It is a highly valued resource for local users across Pennsylvania, known for its sheer scale and the diversity of recreational activities available, from swimming and fishing to serious backcountry hiking. The park’s commitment to providing a large number of well-organized sites, as attested by loyal campers, creates a welcoming balance of privacy and organized community.

The campground operates with distinct seasons, catering to different styles of camping. The modern section, complete with running water and full hookups, is open seasonally, providing a clean and organized stay for the majority of the spring through fall, while a rustic option extends the season into the crisp early winter. For locals, securing a spot at this sought-after Pocono location is securing a key to endless outdoor adventure, making it an essential entry on any Pennsylvania camping checklist.

Location and Accessibility

The Hickory Run State Park Camping Area is perfectly positioned for easy access from Pennsylvania’s major metropolitan centers. The official address, PA-534, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, places it near the historic and charming town of Jim Thorpe, often referred to as the 'Switzerland of America,' offering fantastic day trip opportunities for unique shopping and dining.

For residents driving from the Philadelphia, Allentown, or Scranton/Wilkes-Barre areas, access is highly convenient via major roadways. Travelers can use Interstate 80 or the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), making the park a manageable two- to three-hour drive for many residents across the eastern half of the state. Once inside the park, the campground is clearly marked, located strategically to provide direct access to some of the park's most famous features, including the Sand Spring Lake beach area and several key trailheads, such as the rigorous Shades of Death Trail.

The location within the western Poconos foothills ensures a deeply forested, mountainous backdrop, offering elevated views and a sense of remoteness that belies its accessibility. This geographical advantage makes it a prime getaway location for Pennsylvania families seeking immediate relief from the urban bustle. Furthermore, the proximity to neighboring towns means that while the camp store covers the basics, local excursions for forgotten items or a special meal, like breakfast at the highly recommended

Tara Cottage Café and gifts in Lake Harmony,

Services Offered

Hickory Run State Park Campground provides a host of modern, well-maintained services that enhance the outdoor experience for all types of campers.

• Diverse Site Offerings: Over 380 sites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, including designated pet-friendly loops, walk-in sites, and organized group tenting areas.
• Full Utility Hookups: A large number of sites offer electric hookups, and a selection of sites boast full hookups, including electric, water, and sewer connections, catering to larger RVs and modern camping needs.
• Modern Sanitary Facilities: Campers benefit from modern, well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers, a welcome amenity after a long day of hiking, often cited in reviews as being clean and well-organized.
• On-Site Camp Store: A camp store is available for convenience, stocking essential items such as firewood, ice, and basic camping supplies.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A designated dump station is provided for RV and trailer waste, ensuring proper sanitation within the park.
• Cottage and Cabin Rentals: For those desiring a rustic yet sheltered experience, the park offers standard and deluxe camping cottages, which provide beds and shelter near shared facilities.

Features / Highlights

The true allure of Hickory Run is the integration of its spacious, high-quality campsites with unparalleled access to some of Pennsylvania’s most impressive natural wonders.

• Spacious and Private Campsites: Campers consistently praise the size and layout of the individual sites, noting:

  "The campsites are spacious, clean, and well-organized, providing a perfect balance of privacy and community."

  Locals appreciate the abundant trees and large lots, with specific site numbers—like the desirable 197 or those near the stream, such as 182, 184, 186, and 187—serving as insider tips for securing a prime spot.
• The Famous Boulder Field: A National Natural Landmark, this massive expanse of smooth, moss-covered rocks is a geological marvel and a must-see for all visitors. It’s an adventure, though, as one reviewer cautions:

  "Check out the Boulderfield. It is pretty cool but watch out for slippery rocks with moss on them."

• Sand Spring Lake and Beach: The lake is a major draw for families, offering a large sand beach and swimming area, which children absolutely love.

  "The kids really enjoyed the lake. There is a beach with sand."

  The area is also excellent for fishing, adding another layer of family fun.
• Exceptional Trail Network: The park boasts over 40 miles of hiking opportunities. The challenge of trails like the Shades of Death is often highlighted, described by one camper as:

  "Shades of death trail was challenging not good for me. A 60-year-old woman, But very beautiful."

  This underscores the need for hikers to match trails to their fitness level.
• Crucial Environmental Warning: Local users must be prepared for the natural environment. A critical piece of advice from a recent stay is the severity of biting insects following wet weather:

  "Sadly, lots of mosquitoes with too much standing water and bugs not only mosquitoes but Nats and biting flies! we were so miserable. The rain was bad enough with the mud, but the Nat and mosquitoes were horrific, relentless."

  This factual warning is vital for a successful trip, stressing the need to check the weather and pack heavy-duty insect repellent.

Contact Information

Booking a campsite at Hickory Run State Park is highly recommended well in advance due to its popularity, especially during peak season. All reservation inquiries are managed through the official state park system.

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

Phone: (570) 443-0400 (Park Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 570-443-0400 (Primary Contact)

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

Hickory Run State Park Camping Area is a hallmark of Pennsylvania outdoor recreation, offering a superior camping experience in a protected, expansive wilderness. For local users, it represents an accessible, high-value destination that caters to diverse camping styles, from comfortable RVing with full hookups to traditional tent camping with a stream nearby. It is a perfect spot for Pennsylvania families, with clean facilities, spacious sites that ensure privacy, and a wealth of activities, from disc golf to the beautiful, if strenuous, hiking trails.

The key to unlocking a truly "super nice experience"—as one returning camper put it—lies in heeding the wisdom of fellow locals. The fantastic amenities, the stunning natural features like the Boulder Field, and the fun at Sand Spring Lake all await. However, a successful trip requires respectful preparation, especially regarding the weather and insects, as

"no fun camping in the rain for four days!"

Hickory Run State Park Camping Area

PA-534, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, USA