Tompkins
4.26259 reviews710 IVES RUN LANE
Tompkins
$24.00 - $46.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season nightly rates range from $24 for standard non-electric sites to $46 for standard electric and RV electric sites. Additional fees may...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$46.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$94.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderCowanesqueLakeWEB@usace.army.mil
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine north shore of Cowanesque Lake, Tompkins Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to experience Pennsylvania's natural playground. Here, generations gather to create lasting memories through sun-soaked days of swimming in crystal-clear waters, casting lines for the day's catch, and exploring wooded trails where wildlife sightings reward patient observers. From dawn paddlers gliding across the glassy lake surface to evening campfire conversations under star-filled skies, this cherished destination offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for visitors of all ages.
Tompkins Campground supports various types of camping, including RV camping with full hookups, traditional tent camping, hike-in sites, and group camping. Walk-in sites provide a more secluded experience and are favored by those seeking privacy.
Historical SignificanceSet within Pennsylvania's storied Appalachian Mountain region, Tompkins Campground serves as a living testament to nature's remarkable ability to reclaim and restore. These lands tell a story of transformation, where once-cleared homesteads have given way to thriving ecosystems. Today, native flora carpet the forest floor while indigenous fauna roam freely through this carefully preserved slice of Pennsylvania heritage, offering visitors a chance to connect with both the natural world and the region's evolving relationship with the land.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Tompkins Campground comes alive under Pennsylvania's welcoming skies, where comfortable temperatures invite endless outdoor pursuits. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking weather, while summer brings warm days ideal for lake activities and cool, campfire-perfect evenings. The varying humidity levels throughout the season add character to misty morning lake views and dramatic afternoon cloudscapes. Visitors should note that summer months occasionally see gypsy moth activity, a natural occurrence in Pennsylvania's forests that park staff actively monitor.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds across a stunning tapestry of Pennsylvania wilderness, where partially forested ridges frame panoramic views of Cowanesque Lake's shimmering waters. This jewel of the Endless Mountains region showcases nature's artistry through a diverse landscape of reclaimed meadows blooming with wildflowers, mature woodlots providing cool shade, and open spaces where deer graze at twilight. The interplay of forest and field creates an ever-changing canvas of colors, textures, and wildlife encounters that captivate photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionTompkins Campground rests within the magnificent Endless Mountains, a breathtaking section of Pennsylvania's Allegheny Plateau in the greater Appalachian Mountain system. This ancient geological wonderland features gracefully rolling mountains that stretch to the horizon, their gentle peaks and valleys carved by millennia of natural forces. Open fields punctuate the forested slopes, creating scenic vistas that showcase the region's unique topography—where mountain majesty meets pastoral beauty in perfect harmony.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides paved roads and access to flush toilets but lacks specific accommodations for campers with disabilities, such as cottages or accessible rooms.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, providing ample room for tents and RVs. However, some sites are narrow or feature uneven terrain.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Walk-in sites are more secluded, separated by foliage, while standard electric and group sites may be closer together.
Total Campsites109 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHike-in sites are ideal for a secluded experience, while the Bench Loop offers full hookups and proximity to water for kayaking.
Best CampsitesShoreline sites like P16 and Bench Loop sites are highly recommended for their proximity to the lake and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 PM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is at 3:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights in total within a 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than 7 people per site or one family.
Groups
The campground includes a 24-site group camping area suitable for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops like Knoll, Cove, Bench, and Hike-in sites. Sites are generally spacious, with paved driveways.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to October 13 during peak season. Closed during off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made in advance on Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777. Changes cannot be made on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up/first-come-first-served availability for boat mooring slips.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Tompkins Campground offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and more. The Moccasin Trail provides a scenic four-mile trek through woodlots and reclaimed farm fields. The lake supports fishing tournaments, and its large size accommodates both powerboats and kayaks. A designated swimming beach is available, though reviews mentioned varying water quality.
Hiking
The four-mile Moccasin Trail is popular among hikers, offering a journey through reclaimed farm fields and woodlots inhabited by wildlife.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with indigenous fish populating the lake and streams. Frequent fishing tournaments attract enthusiasts.Swimming
A swimming beach is available, with mixed reviews regarding water quality. Some guests reported closures due to water quality issues.Boating
Boating is a highlight, with a ramp and overnight mooring available. The lake accommodates both powerboats and kayaks.Wildlife viewing
Watchable wildlife includes deer, opossums, turtles, and birds such as eagles and ospreys.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing, though the beach is described as shallow and small.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational ranger programs are occasionally offered, focusing on local wildlife and conservation.Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and fishing are popular water sports, particularly among families.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are Noise disturbances should be kept to a minimum from 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRecurring issues include gypsy moth infestations during summer months, rattlesnakes in grassy areas, and spotty cell coverage.
Active alertsNo current alerts explicitly stated.
Weather forecast
43
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 93%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations located in Lawrenceville, PA, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to October 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but there have been complaints about overflowing dumpsters, particularly on weekends.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Cowanesque Lake, with access to a swimming beach and boat docks.
Common complaintsComplaints often include poor cell service, overgrown grass, limited maintenance of bathrooms, and noise disturbances from nearby campers.
HostHosts are described as friendly but sometimes unhelpful in resolving disputes or issues.
Campground Map
710 IVES RUN LANE
Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 15 to the Lawrenceville/Route 49 exit. Go one mile east on Route 49 to Lawrenceville. At the traffic light turn left onto State Route 287. Cross the Cowanesque River Bridge at the edge of town and make an immediate left turn onto Bliss Road. Continue 5 miles to the campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via Bliss Road, which is a paved route. There are no explicit mentions of seasonal road closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Lawrenceville: approximately 5 miles
Elkland: approximately 10 miles
Corning, NY: approximately 20 miles
Watkins Glen, NY: approximately 45 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, are available in Lawrenceville, PA, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
259 reviews
Tompkins is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Tompkins Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and recreational opportunities. Common complaints include maintenance issues, poor cell phone reception, and disagreements with staff or camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 259 reviews
What Campers Love
Large, clean sites with ample privacy, scenic lake views, friendly staff, plentiful wildlife, and diverse activities such as kayaking and hiking.
Based on 259 reviewsCommon Concerns
Maintenance issues such as clogged drains, high grass, poor cell phone reception, occasional noise from inconsiderate campers, and insufficient ranger or host presence during busy times.
Based on 259 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a wagon or cart for walk-in sites. Prepare for limited cell phone coverage. Consider weekdays for a quieter stay. Some users recommend reserving lakeside sites early due to high demand.
Based on 259 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season (May-October) sees the highest traffic, with positive reviews emphasizing summer activities like kayaking and fishing. Maintenance issues such as grass cutting and restroom cleanliness...
Based on 259 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great campground with amazing views of the lake." - Anuja Puranik
"Sites are very spacious and clean. Restrooms are clean too." - Jamie
"Would have been a lovely experience but we experienced...
Based on 259 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #29 in the Knoll loop is highly recommended for its spaciousness and privacy. Site #34 received complaints about wet and muddy conditions.
Based on 259 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features, but some users mentioned challenges with uneven terrain or narrow sites.
Based on 259 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but some users complained about excessive barking and unsupervised dogs.
Based on 259 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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