Ives Run Campground

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For Pennsylvanians eager to trade the daily routine for the fresh air and scenic beauty of the great outdoors, a camping trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. Our state is blessed with diverse landscapes, from the Pocono Mountains to the Allegheny National Forest, providing countless options for outdoor enthusiasts. Among these, Ives Run Campground, located in Tioga, PA, stands out as a highly acclaimed destination, particularly for those seeking a tranquil lakeside retreat with abundant recreational opportunities. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Ives Run Campground, helping locals discover why this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) facility is an excellent choice for their next adventure.

Ives Run Campground is a gem managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, known for its meticulous upkeep and beautiful natural setting. Situated on the eastern shore of Hammond Lake, it offers campers a serene environment surrounded by lush forested ridges. Unlike some private campgrounds that might prioritize extensive commercial amenities, Ives Run focuses on providing a high-quality, well-maintained natural experience. Real customer reviews consistently highlight its "beautiful COE campground," "well kept," and featuring "clean restrooms." Many sites are noted for being "very spacious," ensuring privacy and comfort for campers.

The campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences, from full-hookup RV sites to more primitive tent camping options, some even offering waterfront views. Its role as part of a flood control project that has evolved into a vibrant recreation area underscores its blend of natural beauty and thoughtful development for public enjoyment. For Pennsylvanians, this means access to a reliable, clean, and amenity-rich camping experience backed by the standards of the Army Corps of Engineers. It's a place where families, couples, and solo adventurers can find their ideal spot to relax, explore, and create lasting memories amidst the stunning landscapes of north-central Pennsylvania.

Ives Run Campground is strategically located at 710 Railroad Grade Trail (Ives Run), Tioga, PA 16946, USA. This address places it firmly within Tioga County, in the north-central part of Pennsylvania. The campground is nestled on the eastern shore of Hammond Lake, which, along with Tioga Lake, forms part of the Tioga-Hammond Lakes Project. This region is particularly appealing for its proximity to some of Pennsylvania's most iconic natural attractions.

For Pennsylvanians traveling to Ives Run, accessibility is quite convenient. From Harrisburg, the drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours heading north. For those coming from Pittsburgh, it's roughly a 4 to 4.5-hour journey east. Even from Philadelphia or the southeastern parts of the state, while a longer drive (approximately 4.5 to 5 hours), the scenic routes through Pennsylvania's varied terrain make the trip enjoyable. The campground is also notably close to the town of Wellsboro, a charming community that serves as a gateway to the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania" (Pine Creek Gorge), adding a significant draw for visitors.

The campground's location on Railroad Grade Trail, just off major routes like US-15, ensures straightforward access for all types of vehicles, including large RVs. Despite its natural, secluded feel, it remains well-connected, allowing campers to easily reach nearby towns for supplies or to explore regional attractions. This blend of remote tranquility and practical accessibility makes Ives Run Campground an ideal and achievable escape for Pennsylvanians looking for an authentic outdoor experience within their home state.

Ives Run Campground, being a well-managed COE facility, offers a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of its campers. These services cater to a wide range of camping styles, from those requiring full hookups to more traditional tent campers:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts approximately 191 sites, offering a variety of choices. These include sites with full hookups (electric, water, sewer), electric and water only, and primitive sites. Many sites are "very spacious" and can accommodate RVs up to 108 feet, with some featuring concrete pads for easy leveling.
• Clean Restroom Facilities: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground provides clean restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. There are separate facilities for different loops, with some offering individual shower/toilet rooms.
• Dump Station: A central sanitation dump station is available for RVs, ensuring convenient waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire (where permitted).
• Boat Launch & Mooring Slips: For boating enthusiasts, there's a convenient boat ramp and rental mooring slips available, providing easy access to Hammond Lake.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming area with a grass beach and concrete bottom offers a refreshing spot to cool off during warmer months.
• Playgrounds: The campground includes multiple playground areas, providing entertainment for children and making it a family-friendly destination.
• Group Picnic Shelters: Five reservable group picnic shelters are available for day use, ideal for family reunions or larger gatherings.
• Visitor Center: A visitor center, though not on the immediate campground map, is a short drive away and offers educational exhibits, including live animal displays and viewing scopes for osprey nests.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join in the camping fun (with standard leash and waste disposal rules).
• Accessible Facilities: Certain sites and facilities are ADA accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

Ives Run Campground stands out due to its impressive array of natural features and recreational highlights, making it a compelling destination for Pennsylvania outdoor lovers:

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground's location on the eastern shore of Hammond Lake, surrounded by forested ridges and the pristine Endless Mountains region, provides stunning scenic views and a tranquil backdrop for camping. Campers can enjoy beautiful sunrises over the lake.
• Abundant Water Recreation: Hammond Lake offers a variety of water activities. It's particularly well-suited for kayaking and canoeing, as speed boats are less common, making the waters calmer. Boating, swimming at the designated beach, and fishing are popular pursuits.
• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: Anglers are drawn to Hammond Lake for its diverse fish population, including crappie, musky, striped bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. Fish cleaning stations and fishing piers further enhance the experience.
• Extensive Trail System: Four distinct hiking trails are accessible directly from the facility, catering to various skill levels and offering opportunities for nature walks and wildlife watching. The campground is also a close drive to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, part of the "Rails to Trails" initiative, perfect for biking with stunning views of the Pine Creek Gorge (PA Grand Canyon).
• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: A consistent highlight from reviews is the generous size of the campsites, offering plenty of room between spaces, ensuring privacy. The grounds are "well-groomed" and "immaculately clean," reflecting the diligent maintenance by the COE.
• Proximity to PA Grand Canyon: Ives Run is conveniently located near Wellsboro, the gateway to the stunning Pine Creek Gorge (Pennsylvania Grand Canyon). Visitors can easily take day trips to overlooks like Colton Point or Leonard Harrison State Park for breathtaking views and hiking.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Hosts/Rangers: Reviews frequently praise the camp hosts and rangers for being "helpful and friendly," contributing to a welcoming and well-managed environment.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting offers ample opportunities for wildlife observation, including various bird species and occasional sightings of larger animals like black bears (proper food storage is essential).

As a campground operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Ives Run Campground typically follows federal guidelines for pricing and discounts. While it may not offer private, limited-time promotions in the same way a commercial campground might, federal campgrounds usually provide access to specific, widely available discounts:

• America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series: Holders of certain passes, such as the Senior Pass or Access Pass, often receive a 50% discount on the nightly rate for individual campsites at federal campgrounds like Ives Run. It's essential to present the pass at check-in.
• Military and Veteran Discounts: While not universally applied to all federal campgrounds, some may offer specific rates for active military personnel and veterans. It is always recommended to inquire directly about any such offerings.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While many sites are reservable via Recreation.gov, some COE campgrounds may have a limited number of first-come, first-served sites, which might sometimes be available at a slightly different rate or offer flexibility for spontaneous trips (though booking ahead is highly recommended for Ives Run due to its popularity).

For the most current and accurate information on pricing, pass discounts, and reservation policies, Pennsylvanians should consult the official Recreation.gov website for Ives Run Campground or contact the campground directly using the provided phone number. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak season and popular weekends, as sites can fill up quickly.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, current rates, or any specific questions regarding your stay at Ives Run Campground, please use the following contact details. It is recommended to contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Address: 710 Railroad Grade Trail (Ives Run), Tioga, PA 16946, USA

Phone: (570) 835-5281

Mobile Phone: +1 570-835-5281

For online reservations and more detailed information, visitors can also refer to the Ives Run Campground page on Recreation.gov, as it is a federal facility.

For Pennsylvanians seeking a quintessential outdoor experience within their own state, Ives Run Campground at Tioga-Hammond Lakes is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its operation by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ensures a consistent standard of excellence, reflected in the "beautifully kept" grounds, "clean restrooms," and "very spacious" sites consistently praised by visitors. This attention to detail provides a comfortable and worry-free environment, allowing locals to truly relax and enjoy their time in nature.

The campground's location on Hammond Lake offers a wealth of water-based activities, from tranquil kayaking and canoeing to excellent fishing for various species, making it a perfect spot for families and anglers alike. Furthermore, its close proximity to the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania" and the Pine Creek Rail Trail provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring some of the state's most breathtaking natural wonders. This means Pennsylvanians can easily combine a relaxing lakeside camping trip with adventurous day excursions to iconic landmarks.

Ives Run Campground truly embodies the best of Pennsylvania's outdoor offerings – a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty, complemented by well-maintained facilities and a wide array of recreational activities. It provides a convenient and high-quality escape for locals looking to disconnect, explore, and create lasting memories right in their own backyard.

Ives Run Campground

710 Railroad Grade Trail (Ives Run), Tioga, PA 16946, USA