Nestled in the lush hills of Pennsylvania, Hills Creek State Park is a nature lover’s paradise.
This picturesque state park spans over 407 acres and is situated in the Tioga State Forest, just a short drive from the town of Wellsboro.
It is known for its stunning natural beauty and boasts a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests.
Hills Creek Lake, the centerpiece of the park, is a popular spot for boating and water sports, while the surrounding woods offer plenty of trails for hiking and biking.
The park also presents several camping accommodation options to suit all preferences. While in the winter it is also a very popular destination for activities like cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and ice fishing.
Activities
The park provides guests with numerous ways to immerse themselves in its spectacular landscape.
Presented below is a quick rundown of some of the main activities and leisure pursuits you can partake in while you are there.
Boating at Hills Creek State Park
With its calm waters and picturesque surroundings the park’s 137-acre lake is a fabulous destination for boating.
You are more than welcome to bring your own rowboat, canoe, kayak or paddle boat. But if you don’t have one in tow, you can always rent them out.
The park also has a boat launch and dock, making it easy for visitors to get their vessels in and out of the water.
In addition, boaters can also enjoy water skiing and tubing on the lake, but must follow all park regulations and safety guidelines.
Swimming at Hills Creek State Park
During the summer months, when the heat of the day gets quite intense, the lake is a terrific spot for swimming.
Surrounded by stunning wooded hillsides, the beach area offers visitors a serene spot to go for a dip.
To ensure the safety of swimmers, lifeguards are on duty at this time. However, you should still exercise caution whilst in the water.
At the beach area there are also picnic facilities including grills which you can use to really make a day of your time there.
Fishing at Hills Creek State Park
Fishing at Hills Creek State Park is a popular activity, with the park featuring plenty of lake surface area to cast a line in.
Overall, the lake is home to several species of fish including bass, pickerel, muskellunge, and panfish. Anglers will need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license in order to practice this activity, which can be purchased online or at local retailers.
Once they have secured one they can fish from the shoreline, on a boat in the water or an ADA accessible fishing pier.
Hiking at Hills Creek State Park
Hiking is one of the most regularly undertaken activities at Hills Creek State Park.
Overall, it offers several miles of trails that are designated as easy to moderate. These trails wind through lush forests, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Some well trodden paths include the Old Logger’s Path, a 27-mile trail that offers a backcountry hiking experience, and the Lakeshore Trail, that skirts the shoreline of Hills Creek Lake for 2.5-miles.
The park also offers a self-guided nature trail, which is an easy half-mile loop trail that provides information about the flora and fauna found in the area. While on the trails, hikers can spot a variety of wildlife along them including deer, bear, and various bird species.
Winter Activities at Hills Creek State Park
Winter is an excellent time to visit Hills Creek State Park, as it offers a range of activities that can be enjoyed during the colder months.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter sports, with miles of trails available for exploration.
Visitors can even rent equipment from the park’s office if they did not bring their own.
Ice fishing is another well practiced winter activity, with anglers setting up on the frozen surface of the lake.
Additionally, ice skating also takes part in designated areas of the lake if weather permits.
For those who prefer a more laid-back winter activity, simply taking a walk along the snowy trails can be a peaceful and serene experience, with the snow-covered trees and quiet surroundings creating a magical ambiance of a winter wonderland.
Pets
Hills Creek State Park is a popular destination for those who love to spend time outdoors with their furry companions.
While pets are allowed in the park, they must be kept on a leash of no more than six feet at all times. They also are forbidden from entering the swimming beach or any of the park’s buildings – unless they are a service dog.
Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets and properly disposing of their waste.
Camping
Hills Creek State Park offers a variety of camping options for visitors, including tent and trailer sites, as well as rustic cabins for those who prefer a little more comfort.
Overall, the park has more than 100 campsites spread throughout the woods, which provide a beautiful setting for any camping trip.
Many of the tent and trailer sites are located near the lake and provide access to showers, restrooms, and a dump station.
The rustic cabins are a great option for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the park while still having access to modern amenities like electricity and heating. They are equipped with beds, a table, chairs, and a wood stove, providing a good level of comfort.
Park Location
Hills Creek State Park
111 Spill Way Road
Wellsboro, PA 16901
Phone: 419.285.2112
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Hills Creek State Park:
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