Hickory Run State Park Camping

Hickory Run State Park Fishing

The streams and lakes located within Hickory Run State Park, PA are an anglers paradise! Stocked with brook and brown trout, many of the streams are perfect settings for an afternoon fishing trip. The Lehigh River also has plenty of amazing spots, featuring warm-water game fish, trout, and panfish.

Hickory Run State Park Boulder Field

The road to the boulder field is a 5-mile one way dirt loop road. It is best accessible in the late spring to fall, as the road is not maintained in the winter. Directional signs at the entrance of the loop road will guide you to the boulder field.

The boulder field is a huge area, approximately 400 feet by 1,800 feet with boulders of varying size.

A very unique attraction, this boulder field seems like it goes on forever! Enter at your own risk, as hopping from rock to rock can be quite challenging and dangerous.

A sign by the boulder field and an informative section of the Hickory Run State Park Visitors Center describe how the boulder field can to exist at the park. The boulder field was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1967.

Hiking In Hickory Run State Park

There are more than 40 miles of hiking trails in Hickory Run State Park. Many of the trails are full of rocks and roots but dont gain much elevation. I would rate all of the Hickory Run State Park trails as easy to moderate.

Most trails meander through the woods, and if you visit in June, you will get to see the thousands of rhododendron blooms along many of the trails. I visited when the blooms were just finishing up last year, and I cant wait to go back and see them this year.

Here are my favorite hiking trails in Hickory Run State Park. All of them are suitable for families with kids. There are dozens more that are also worth checking out. If you want an overview of all the hiking trails in Hickory Run State Park, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.

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Shades Of Death Trail

Hows that for a trail name? I hiked this trail around sunset on my first evening in the park, and Ill admit that the name had me concerned. Apparently, the first European settlers named the area Shades of Death because the forests were so thick and dark, with lots of swampy areas. Maybe they were just trying to discourage people from learning how beautiful the area was.

The Shades of Death Trail starts behind the Visitor Center, so if you havent checked it out, do that first. You can fill your water bottles, pick up a trail map and learn about the natural history of the area.

This dark wooded path is edged with rhododendrons and beautiful rock formations. As you get deeper into the woods, youll follow a creek and be treated to the constant babbling of the stream as it dances over the rocks.

There are several small waterfalls that are worth spending time with. The largest cascades over a man-made dam and is about 20 feet tall. When you get to the road, turn around and retrace your steps.

With Nearly 16000 Acres Of Land Theres Plenty Of Room To Roam At Hickory Run State Park

One of the parks attractions is Boulder Field, which is a National Natural Landmark. This expanse of red boulders formed during the ice age. Today, many visitors climb the rocks, which span 720,000 square feet.

The park features 44 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are the Fireline, Hickory Run, Hawk Falls, and Shades of Death trails. Shades of Death, named for its thick forests and rugged terrain, sounds menacing, but it offers some of the best views of the park. Hikers will spot the remains of old logging mills and dams. It is also a prime site for birdwatching.

Hot days lead to sunning and swimming at Sand Springs Lake, playing the 19-hole disc golf course, navigating an orienteering course, or geocaching.

Cant see the whole park in one day? Hickory Run State Park offers tent, trailer, or cottage camping sites with modern amenities.

Hickory Run State Park in Carbon County is open year-round.

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Hickory Run State Park Trails

When you come to Hickory Run State Park, come prepared to explore! The park offers 44 miles of hiking trails that wind through spectacular scenic areas. This is especially true in June and July when wildflowers like the mountain laurel and rhododendron are in bloom. October is another exciting time go fall hikers will enjoy the peak of autumn foliage. In the winter, the blue-blazed trails allow cross-country skiing and the orange-blazed trails allow snowmobiling.

Hickory Run State Park Camping

Youll find every type of camping at Hickory Run State Park, whether you want a cabin or cottage for the weekend , full hook-ups for your RV, or a rustic walk-in tent site. There is a camping loop just for campers with dogs, and tent sites in the woods or out in the open.

From Hickory Run Campground, you can easily walk to Sand Spring Lake to cool off, and to the beautiful Shades of Death Trail . To visit other attractions, like Hawk Falls and Boulder Field, you will probably want to drive or ride a bike. This is a massive park, and it isnt easy to explore the whole thing on foot.

Campsites in Hickory Run Campground are pretty close together, especially if you reserve a sunny spot in one of the meadow areas. The wooded campsites are a bit more private, but they do pack the campsites pretty closely together. If you head over to Reserve America and look at the Hickory Run Campground Map, you can click on the individual sites to see if they are in the woods or in a field. This will help with finding a more private campsite.

Hickory Run Campground is open from the second Friday in April until the third Sunday in October. Rustic camping is available until mid-December. Pets are only permitted at designated sites and there is a dog-walking trail around that camping area. Heres a link to the Hickory Run State Park Campground Map.

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Rv Resorts & Campsites In Hickory Run State Park

If youre thinking about staying in or near Hickory Run State Park, why not do so in an RV? Unlike tents, RVs provide you with a soft, comfortable bed, as well as your own private bathroom and fully-stocked kitchen. If you dont own an RV, you can rent an RV fromRVshare.com to suit your budget or needs. All rentals come with nationwide insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a world-class team dedicated to helping you succeed.

Hickory Run State Park has its own camping facilities, including sites with full hookups or electric-only. There are also cottages and tent-only sites on offer. The base rate for camping starts at $15 per night.

There are also plenty of other RV parks and campgrounds located near the state park. Weve listed three of the top-rated facilities below.

Hiking At The Hickory Run State Park

Every trail offers something different, and certain trails present more challenges than others. Stop by the park office or download the parks map here from the parks oficial website before you start hiking. Cell service is spotty in areas of the park so having a printed version of the map may be a good idea.

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Swimming At Sand Spring Lake

This small lake and sandy beach are great assets to Hickory Run State Park. The water is and beach are both very clean, and theres a large bathhouse and snack bar. If I had visited with my kids, they would have absolutely wanted to spend the whole day here.

Since my visit to Hickory Run State Park was a solo trip, I was content to go for a luxurious swim each evening before heading back to camp to make a fire and cook dinner. You can easily walk from the campground to the beach, and there were families frolicking in the water each evening until sunset.

Hickory Run State Park

• “Hawk Falls & Boulder field!””Find the hawk falls trail and hike it!””private and the trails””Watch the weather and make sure your campsite is near a bathroom..”

• Jeff PetrielloAugust 13, 2017Though the campsites could be a bit more private and the trails between better maintained, this park with its access to several lovely waterfalls& a nearby boulder field is a great outdoor adventure
• FaithAugust 30, 2020We love this campground! Lots to explore, great sites, cleanbathrooms. Everyone is so nice& Park rangers arent crazy.Highly populated with bears.I recommend visiting Hawk Falls& Boulder field!
• YYMay 27, 2013Nice nature within just a few steps. No need to walk the entire trail. You will find a man-made waterfall.
• Doris Sissy MenesesSeptember 29, 2015Even though the leaves were just beginning to turn, it is a beautiful ride!
• Heather PuzzettiApril 29, 2013Best place to ride a bike, have a picnic, and be a family!
• Leah BOctober 23, 2011Great place to bring the family to enjoy and appreciate the natural elements!
• Jason ShellhammerJune 17, 2019Boulder field is the hit. Check it out. Watch your step.
• Atul MogheAugust 3, 2013Watch the weather and make sure your campsite is near a bathroom..

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What Makes It Great

Hickory Run State Park is one of the closest and largest state parks to Philadelphia. Hickory Run offers recreational opportunities year round. Camping is available from spring to fall, and hiking and sightseeing is great all year round. Summer visitors should check out the swimming at Sand Spring Lake. During the winter, visitors can cross country ski, ice skate, and ride snowmobiles. The trails at Hickory Run are mark with yellow blazes for hiking, blue blazes for hiking and cross country skiing, and orange blazes for hiking and snowmobiling.

Two of the most popular trails are Hawk Falls Trail and Boulder Field Trail. These two trails have parking lots on PA 534, east of the Campground, just after I-476 overpass. The Boulder Field Trail will take you through 3.5 miles of woods to reach a huge boulder field that is great for photos and rock hopping. Across the road, Hawk Falls Trail is a short 0.6 mile trail that brings you to a view of Hawk Falls, a 25 foot waterfall.

Many other trails are located closer to the camping area and park office. Look at the park map on PA DCNRs website for more information.

Hickory Run State Park Waterfalls

Hickory Run State Park has two main waterfalls and one smaller set of cascading waterfalls by the parks chapel. One main waterfall is along the Shades of Death trail, and is the result of a man-made dam. Its called Stametz Dam.

The other, larger waterfall is Hawk Falls. Hawk Falls can be reached by an easy half mile hike.

The set of cascading waterfalls can be found in front of the chapel, across the road from the Shades of Death trail head.

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Who Is Going To Love It

Hickory Run State Park is a great place to visit for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Camping options range from rustic tent camping to deluxe cottages. Hiking trails in the park range from steep rocky trails to wide flat paths. Hunting and Fishing is also available in the park. Hunting is permitted in Hickory Run and surrounding State Game Lands during hunting season. Fishing is available in many of the parks lakes and streams. Mountain biking is not permitted on in the park, but is allowed in other nearby parks like Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Hickory Run State Park White Haven Pa

Disclaimer: Caution must be used at all times as natural hazards exist. Please hike wisely and follow the applicable rules and safety guidelines.

Hickory Run State Park is a Pennsylvania State Park located in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains. The park includes many attractions including a lake with a swimming beach in the summer, a boulder field, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

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Hickory Run Parking & Regulations

• The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset
• Day use areas close at dusk
• The visitor center is open specific hours
• The beach, overnight areas, and other areas are open specific seasons and hours
• Pets and fires are allowed
• No alcohol

Contact the visitor center for facility seasons and hours.

Hickory run experiences high visitation from the spring through the fall. Parking areas at trailheads may reach capacity early in the day, even during the week. Please arrive early and have a back-up plan if parking lots are full.

What You Need To Know About Hickory Run State Park Pa

Hickory Run State Park, PA, offers almost 16,000 acres of land that are just waiting to be explored. Its miles of hiking trails, flowing fishing streams, and scenic picnic areas make this the perfect place to bond with nature! They also have great educational programs to help you make the best use of this beautiful outdoor classroom.

For more on Hickory Run State Park, PA, and other nearby scenic destinations, be sure to check out our complimentary Vacation Guide. Its packed with great ideas and tips for your visit to the Poconos! You can also check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about Poconos waterfalls, whitewater rafting, hiking, and more.

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Spend A Day At Hickory Run State Park Pa

Less than 45 minutes from the French Manor Inn & Spa, Hickory Run State Park, PA, lies in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. Its diverse habitats, extensive wilderness, and many activities make it an excellent place to spend the day. Theres even disc golf and geocaching! Here are a few of our favorite things to do at Hickory Run State Park.

Hickory Run State Park Natural Areas

Hickory Run State Park, PA has three state park natural areas for guests to explore. A natural area is an area that offers unique scenic, geologic, or ecological value that is maintained without any direct human intervention. Boulder Field is a National Natural Landmark and features a striking rocky landscape. The Mud Swamp is a remote wetland dominated by spruce trees. The last natural area is Mud Run, a pristine mountain stream lined with rhododendron and eastern hemlock. Grab a camera and check out all three when you visit!

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Directions Parking & Regulations

To get to Hickory Run State Park from Philadelphia, take 76 West to 476 North. Follow 476 North for 75 miles and take exit 95 onto 80 West. Drive on 80 West for 2.6 miles and take exit 274 to PA-534 toward Hickory Run State Park. Follow 534 for about 5 miles to reach the park office and campground on your right.

Camping at Hickory Run is available from the middle of April to the middle of October for sites with modern facilities. Campsites without running water are available to the middle of December. There are designated campsites for those with pets.

Camping At The Hickory Run

The parks large campground features more than 300 tent, trailer and RV sites, as well as a few walk-in sites and camping cottages.

Camping is available from mid april to mid October for sites with modern facilities. Campsites without running water are available to mid december. Park facilities include restrooms with showers, drinking water, two playgrounds, amphitheater, fishing pier, dog-walking area, and a camp store.

Campsites are ADA accessible and special designated campsites for those with pets.

The Shades of Death and Beach trails are accessible right from the campground. Campsite rates range from $15$40/night cabins and cottages range from $38$105/night.

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Hiking And Camping At Hickory Run State Park In Pennsylvania

Categories camping, Destinations, Get Outside, hiking, Mid-Atlantic States, United States

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Secluded forest hikes, hidden waterfalls, and the largest boulder field in the Appalachians. Welcome to Hickory Run State Park in Pennsylvanias Pocono Mountains. This gem of a park encompasses almost 16,000 acres, as well as 44 miles of hiking trails, numerous waterfalls, two lakes, and more than 350 campsites.

If you havent explored this beautiful state park in Pennsylvania, its about time to change that. Heres an overview of Hickory Run State Park, and why we think youll love adventuring there.

Quick Facts: Hickory Run State ParkFees: Free for day useDogs: on-leashOfficial Park Website

Pennsylvania has 121 state parks, nearly 1% of all the land in the state, and all of the state parks are free for visitors who come to spend the day.

Hickory Run State Park is one of the largest state parks in Pennsylvania, and one of the most popular. Last summer, I spent three wonderful days exploring every inch of Hickory Run State Park . I hiked 10 miles of trails, traipsed through the woods to photograph waterfalls, and pitched my tent at Hickory Run Campground.

Hickory Run State Park Hiking

There are 40 miles of hiking trails at Hickory Run State Park. However, the state park is most known for its Shades of Death Trail.

The Shades of Death Trails name sounds intimidating, but its a fairly easy hike to a man-made waterfall. There are some drop offs during the hike, so it may not be suitable for young children.

The trailhead parking lot is not very large. It fits maybe 10 to 15 cars, so be sure to arrive early for a parking spot. There is a port-a-potty at the trail head parking lot.

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