Hickory Run State Park in Carbon County

Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, Hickory Run State Park stands as a captivating camping destination that beckons nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 15,000 acres, this picturesque park offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the great outdoors. With its diverse landscapes, abundant recreational activities, and serene camping facilities, Hickory Run State Park promises an unforgettable retreat in the heart of the Keystone State.

Camping Amidst Natural Beauty

Hickory Run State Park provides a picturesque setting for camping amidst nature’s beauty. The park’s lush woodlands, meandering streams, and rolling hills create a serene ambiance that embraces campers, providing an ideal backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Swimming and Relaxation

The Sand Spring Lake and the Sand Spring Lake Beach offer campers a refreshing escape on warm summer days. Families and friends can bask in the sun on the sandy shore or take a dip in the cool waters of the lake, providing a perfect opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Fishing and Wildlife Viewing

For fishing enthusiasts, the park presents excellent opportunities to cast a line into the streams and lakes within its boundaries. Anglers can try their luck at catching trout, bass, and other fish species. Wildlife enthusiasts will also find pleasure in observing the diverse array of flora and fauna that call the park home.

Winter Activities

During the winter months, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. The park’s serene landscapes take on a magical quality, providing campers with a unique and peaceful camping experience.

Educational Programs and Interpretive Center

Hickory Run State Park hosts various educational programs and events throughout the year. The park’s Environmental Interpretive Center offers insights into the region’s natural history, geology, and wildlife, providing campers with a deeper understanding of the ecosystems they are exploring.

Proximity to Local Attractions

Hickory Run State Park’s central location in the Pocono Mountains puts campers in close proximity to other regional attractions. Visitors can take day trips to explore the charming towns, nearby state parks, and natural landmarks, adding further excitement to their camping adventure.

This camping destination in Pennsylvania promises an unparalleled opportunity to embrace nature’s retreat in the scenic Pocono Mountains. From serene woodlands to refreshing lakes and hiking trails, the park offers a variety of experiences that cater to all types of campers. Whether you’re seeking a primitive camping adventure amidst the Boulder Field or prefer the comforts of a modern campground, Hickory Run State Park caters to all preferences. As campers revel in the tranquility of nature, they are embraced by the beauty of the Keystone State’s wilderness, creating cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.

Hickory Run State Park Waterfalls

Hickory Run State Park is a beautiful natural area known for its stunning waterfalls. Here are some of the notable waterfalls you can find in Hickory Run State Park:

Hawk Falls: Hawk Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the park. It can be accessed via a moderately easy 0.9-mile hiking trail that starts from the parking lot on Route 534. The waterfall drops about 25 feet into a serene pool, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.

Shades of Death Falls: This waterfall is named after the surrounding “Shades of Death” ravine. It is accessible via a short and moderately difficult trail in Hickory Run State Park. The waterfall is about 25 feet tall and offers a picturesque sight for hikers.

Saylorsville Falls: Near the entrance of Camp Shehaqua at Saylorsville Dam, you can find Saylorsville Falls. Just downstream from the dam, there’s a fordway that crosses Hickory Run Creek. During periods of high water, the fordway might be gated for safety reasons.

Hickory Run State Park Fishing

Hickory Run State Park offers various opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. The park provides access to several bodies of water where visitors can enjoy fishing for a variety of species. The fishing spots within the park include:

• Fourth Run. A small stream characterized by dense vegetation at certain spots. Although not stocked, it boasts a native trout population.
• Hawk Run: It is not stocked but is classified as a Class A Wild Trout Stream, providing a natural habitat for trout.
• Sand Spring Run. Adjacent to the Shades of Death Trail, Sand Spring Run is classified as stocked trout water, with trout being added during the spring season. It contains four impoundments: Dam #5, CCC Dam, Stametz Dam, and McGinley Dam.
• Hickory Run. Hickory Run is stocked from Hickory Run Lake down to Saylorsville Dam and is also home to native trout. Note that the stretch from Saylorsville Dam to the Lehigh River is catch-and-release only, with regulations requiring the use of artificial lures and barbless hooks.
• Hickory Run Lake. Designated as stocked trout water, Hickory Run Lake is accessible via the gravel road to Boulder Field. The road is one-way only and not maintained during winter due to its use as a snowmobile trail/dual-use road.
• Mud Run. Mud Run is classified as delayed harvest artificial lures only, open to harvest from June 15 to Labor Day. It is stocked with trout and also hosts a population of native trout.
• Lehigh River. The Lehigh River is stocked with trout and supports various warm-water game fish and pan fish.

Hickory Run State Park Bike Campgrounds

Hickory Run State Park offers several campgrounds where visitors can enjoy camping amidst the natural beauty of the park. Here are the main campgrounds in the park:

• Family Campground. This is the main campground in the park, offering both tent and RV camping sites. It provides various amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, and a dump station for RVs. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
• Organized Group Tenting Campground. This campground is designed for organized groups such as scout troops and other organizations. It offers group tenting sites, fire rings, and nearby restrooms. Reservations are required for group camping.
• Rustic Cabins. The park also offers rustic cabins for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience. These cabins are equipped with basic amenities such as bunk beds, heating, and electricity. Visitors need to bring their bedding and other camping gear.

Hickory Run State Park Bike Trails

The park does not have designated mountain biking trails. The park primarily focuses on hiking, picnicking, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Hickory Run State Park Hours

The park welcomes visitors every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset.

Where is Hickory Run State Park?