Hills Creek State Park
00 review111 Spillway Road, WELLSBORO, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States
Hills Creek State Park
$15.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $45 for full hookup sites to $15 for rustic tent sites. Additional fees may apply for cabins and other facilities.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of northcentral Pennsylvania, Hills Creek State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 85 thoughtfully designed campsites that cater to every camping style. Whether you prefer the convenience of electric hookups, the rustic charm of a cabin, the comfort of a cottage, or the unique experience of staying in a yurt, this 407-acre haven has something special waiting for you. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—from peaceful picnics by the water's edge to invigorating hikes through wooded trails and refreshing adventures on the pristine 137-acre Hills Creek Lake.
Hills Creek State Park offers a variety of camping options, including primitive, RV, tent, group, and cabin lodging.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Hills Creek State Park with its own spectacular palette. Spring arrives with a symphony of migrating birds, transforming the park into a birdwatcher's paradise. Summer invites you to dive into lake adventures and sun-soaked relaxation. Autumn sets the forest ablaze with brilliant foliage that reflects like fire on the lake's surface. When winter's blanket covers the landscape, the park transforms into a wonderland where ice skates carve patterns on the frozen lake and cross-country skis glide through snow-dusted trails, creating memories that warm even the coldest days.
ElevationElevation of the park is not explicitly stated.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of the park is the stunning 137-acre Hills Creek Lake, a shimmering oasis embraced by lush Pennsylvania forests. This natural sanctuary serves as a stage for nature's most impressive performances—majestic Ospreys diving for fish, Bald Eagles soaring overhead with their distinctive white crowns gleaming in the sun, and diverse waterfowl creating ripples across the glassy surface. The surrounding woodlands offer a tapestry of towering trees that shelter countless wildlife species, creating an ecosystem where every visit promises new discoveries and moments of wonder.
Geological RegionHills Creek State Park showcases the distinctive beauty of northcentral Pennsylvania's landscape, where rolling hills embrace warm-water lakes in a gentle dance of land and water. The 137-acre Hills Creek Lake serves as the park's centerpiece, carved into terrain that tells the story of ancient geological forces. This region's characteristic hilly topography creates dramatic vistas and intimate valleys, while dense forests blanket the slopes, forming a natural amphitheater that captures the essence of Pennsylvania's wild heart.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA cabins are available in the cabin area. The campground is generally well-maintained, and accessibility appears to be considered in its design.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with options for large spaces, grassy tent sites, and smaller secluded areas in Loop D as described by Bonnie Skelley.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies, with options for secluded sites in Loop D and less privacy in Loop A near the water.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop D for dog-friendly camping; Loop A for proximity to the lake. Sites 51 & 52 in Loop C are grassy but less shaded.
Best CampsitesSite 54 is highly rated for its quiet atmosphere; Yurt #43 is noted for great views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in information is not clearly provided.
Check-out
Check-out information is not clearly provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Groups
The group camping area is highly praised: "Awesome place for camping! The group camping spot is great" (Joshua Ham).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four loops, catering to different preferences (dog-friendly, wooded, secluded, etc.).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; winter activities are available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through DCNR's official website or via phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible, but specific numbers and fill patterns are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellation are not explicitly stated; standard state park policies may apply.
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Hills Creek State Park offers a wide array of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, boating, wildlife viewing, and cultural and educational programs. "Hike the lake side trail or two other trails, or try geocaching."
Hiking
The park features five miles of hiking trails. The lakeside trail is noted as kid-friendly (Miriam Martin). Reviews describe trails as "well marked" (Shan Smerdon) but occasionally narrow and overgrown (Bonnie Brown).Fishing
Fishing is permitted and popular at Hills Creek Lake, which is described as a great warm water fishery with bass, bluegill, sunfish, perch, and muskellunge. "Good shallow fishing" (Linda Stager) and "Fishing is good on the lake" (Charles H).Swimming
Swimming is available in the lake, although pets are prohibited in the sandy beach area and swimming area. Note that swimming was temporarily closed due to algae bloom as mentioned by Randall Haley.Biking
Biking trails are available and user reviews highlight them as "Great bike trails!" (Jacob Wolfe). The park roads are also suitable for biking (staticbird11).Boating
Boating opportunities are abundant, with multiple boat launches and options for kayaking and canoeing. Gas motors are prohibited on the lake (Steven Walters).Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings include beavers, muskrats, bear, deer, turkey, and birds such as osprey, bald eagles, and owls. Migratory birds are observed in spring and fall.Beach activities
Beach activities are available but somewhat limited, with a single picnic table and no shade at the beach area (Jennifer Carado).Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers programs such as "campfire talks" (Linda Stager) and wildlife presentations by the naturalist Jim Mucci (Jeremy Stash).Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice skating, ice fishing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Activities include rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing on Hills Creek Lake as noted by staticbird11 and Diana M.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Adjustable cooking grates are provided.
- Quiet hours are 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBears and raccoons are present; food must be stored securely. Some ticks and algae blooms may pose health risks.
Active alertsOccasional advisories related to algae blooms affecting lake swimming.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is within 10 miles from the park. Emergency services such as ranger stations are reachable via the provided direct line: 5707244246.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is likely during spring, summer, and fall months with increased camping and recreational activities.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and occupants are expected to clean up before vacating their sites.
Proximity to water featuresCentered around Hills Creek Lake, providing boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsTicks, algae blooms, and proximity of campsites are recurring issues. Some users report bed bugs in specific cottages.
HostPark Manager Ben Stone receives positive mentions for maintenance and friendliness.
Campground Map
111 Spillway Road, WELLSBORO, Pennsylvania, 16901, United States
Driving directionsHills Creek State Park, in northcentral Tioga County, is just north of US 6 and midway between Wellsboro and Mansfield. The park is also reached from PA 287 between the towns of Tioga and Wellsboro.
Accessible from major highways like US 6 and PA 287; roads are paved and well-maintained. Nearby places
Wellsboro (approximately 10 miles, 15-20 minutes)
Mansfield (approximately 10 miles, 15-20 minutes)
Tioga (approximately 7 miles, 10-15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available within 10 miles of the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hills Creek State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's cleanliness, natural beauty, and variety of activities. Common themes include the quality of cabin lodging, wildlife viewing, and recreational opportunities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, friendly staff, great cabins and yurts, abundant wildlife, and a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
Common Concerns
Issues noted include tick prevalence, occasional high grass at campsites, and restricted cell phone service. Some users also disliked the no alcohol policy and limited beach facilities.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Choose Loop D for more privacy" (Bonnie Skelley), "Bring bikes for exploring trails and roads" (staticbird11), "Call ahead to confirm cabin key availability" (Belinda Horrocks).
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted as ideal for bird watching and wildlife viewing. Summer reviews highlight swimming and water sports. Winter reviews focus on activities like ice skating and cross-country...
Show more
Camper Quotes
"The park's greatest asset though is the resident naturalist, Jim Mucci--who offers a wealth of knowledge on wildlife" (Jeremy Stash), "The campground was clean and maintained. Fair prices for the...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 54 was highly praised for its quality and privacy (Kristen Thore). Loop D is noted for being dog-friendly and offering large sites (Tracee Clepper).
Accessibility Features
ADA cabins are available. There are no specific user mentions of accessibility challenges.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted in designated areas such as Loops A and D and Cabins 1, 2, and 3. Pets are not allowed in the sandy beach or swimming areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025