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Hemlock Hideaway Campground Introduce

For those of us living in Pennsylvania, the desire to find a peaceful sanctuary where we can truly unwind and immerse ourselves in nature is a constant. Hemlock Hideaway Campground, located on Seclusion Lane in James Creek, PA, offers just such an opportunity. Nestled in a naturally beautiful setting, this campground aims to provide a serene escape from the everyday hustle, making it a potentially appealing option for Pennsylvania locals seeking a quiet outdoor adventure.

Hemlock Hideaway Campground strives to be a destination where campers can find tranquility and enjoy the natural surroundings that define this picturesque region of Pennsylvania. While individual experiences may vary, the core offering is a space designed for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the forest, spending your days exploring the local area, and unwinding by a campfire under the stars. The name "Hemlock Hideaway" itself evokes a sense of being tucked away in a verdant, natural setting, inviting visitors to discover a personal retreat.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with family, a solo trip to reconnect with nature, or a basecamp for exploring the wider outdoor attractions of Huntingdon County, Hemlock Hideaway Campground endeavors to provide a suitable environment for your adventures. It's a place that encourages you to step away from the demands of daily life and simply enjoy the peaceful embrace of the Pennsylvania outdoors.

Location and Accessibility

Hemlock Hideaway Campground is situated at 17621 Seclusion Ln, James Creek, PA 16657, USA. This address places it in Huntingdon County, in the south-central part of Pennsylvania. The location lives up to its name, offering a sense of seclusion while remaining accessible to residents across the state.

For those traveling from Pennsylvania's major cities, such as Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, or Philadelphia, the journey to James Creek typically involves navigating state highways and well-maintained local roads. From the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), visitors would generally connect to routes like US-22 or US-30, eventually transitioning to routes such as PA-26, which leads towards the Lake Raystown area and James Creek. Seclusion Lane, as its name suggests, is a local road that leads directly to the campground, emphasizing its tucked-away nature.

The beauty of Hemlock Hideaway Campground's location lies in its close proximity to some of Pennsylvania's most renowned natural attractions, particularly Lake Raystown. Lake Raystown is a sprawling, 8,300-acre lake known for its excellent boating, fishing, and water sports opportunities. The campground's address in James Creek places it conveniently for campers who wish to spend their days exploring the lake and its surrounding recreation areas, including the vast trail systems like the Allegrippis Trails, popular among mountain bikers and hikers.

While the campground offers a feeling of being a "hideaway," it is still within a reasonable driving distance of towns like Huntingdon, which can provide access to groceries, fuel, and other essential services. This balance of a serene, natural setting and practical accessibility makes Hemlock Hideaway a promising option for Pennsylvania locals seeking an outdoor escape with convenient access to popular recreational hubs.

Services Offered

Hemlock Hideaway Campground aims to provide a range of services that facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience within its secluded setting. While the provided customer reviews indicate some areas for improvement regarding specific interactions, the fundamental services expected at a campground would generally include:

  • Campsites: The campground offers various campsites, which would typically accommodate tents and potentially RVs or pop-up campers. These sites are designated areas for setting up camp.
  • Fire Rings: Most campsites are usually equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. It is always important for campers to adhere to any current fire restrictions.
  • Picnic Tables: Individual campsites would likely include picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for dining, food preparation, or simply gathering.
  • Restroom Facilities: Campgrounds generally provide access to restroom facilities, which can range from vault toilets to more developed flush toilets. While specific details aren't provided, such facilities are standard for a commercial campground.
  • Potable Water: Access to potable (drinkable) water sources is a fundamental service at campgrounds, often available through shared spigots or designated water stations. Campers should ensure they bring adequate water or confirm water access upon arrival.
  • On-Site Store: As indicated by customer reviews mentioning interactions with staff in "the store" and discussions about "ice cream," Hemlock Hideaway Campground features an on-site store. This convenience typically offers basic camping supplies, snacks, drinks, and treats like ice cream, reducing the need for campers to leave the premises for small needs.
  • Mini Golf: The mention of "mini golf" in a review indicates that the campground offers this recreational activity. This provides an on-site entertainment option for families and groups, adding to the leisure activities available without leaving the campground.

While the goal is to provide these services, the quality of specific amenities and customer service experiences, particularly regarding the store and mini-golf, appear to be areas where the campground could focus on enhancement based on customer feedback. However, the presence of these services demonstrates an intent to offer a complete and convenient camping experience.

Features / Highlights

Hemlock Hideaway Campground in James Creek, PA, offers several features and highlights designed to attract campers seeking a specific type of outdoor experience, particularly those valuing tranquility and access to natural attractions:

  • Secluded Setting: The campground's address on "Seclusion Lane" aptly describes one of its primary features. It aims to provide a quiet, tucked-away environment, allowing campers to escape the noise and distractions of everyday life. This offers a true "hideaway" feel, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet in nature.
  • Proximity to Lake Raystown: A significant highlight is its advantageous location near Lake Raystown. This vast and popular lake offers extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and various water sports. Campers at Hemlock Hideaway have convenient access to this major recreational hub, making it a great base for water-based adventures.
  • Access to Outdoor Trails: The area around Lake Raystown and Huntingdon County is rich with trails, including the renowned Allegrippis Trails system, popular for mountain biking and hiking. Campers can easily access these trails for diverse outdoor activities, catering to both casual walkers and avid adventurers.
  • Natural Surroundings: The campground is set amidst Pennsylvania's natural beauty, likely featuring the namesake hemlock trees and other lush forest vegetation. This provides a scenic backdrop for camping, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and a refreshing natural ambiance.
  • On-Site Mini Golf: The presence of mini golf provides a convenient and fun recreational activity right within the campground. This can be a great option for families with children or anyone looking for a casual pastime without leaving the premises.
  • On-Site Store and Treats: The availability of an on-site store, including "BBQ and Ice Cream," is a convenient feature. It allows campers to purchase basic necessities, snacks, and enjoy prepared food or a sweet treat without needing to drive off-site, enhancing the leisure aspect of the stay.
  • Potential for Quiet Retreat: For campers prioritizing a peaceful experience over bustling activity, the "hideaway" aspect of the campground's setting suggests a more serene environment. This can be a key feature for those looking to simply relax, read, or enjoy quiet time in nature.

While some customer reviews have noted concerns regarding specific campsite conditions and customer service experiences at the store, the core features of a secluded location, proximity to major outdoor attractions like Lake Raystown, and on-site recreation options remain inherent highlights of Hemlock Hideaway Campground.

Contact Information

For those interested in visiting or learning more about Hemlock Hideaway Campground in James Creek, Pennsylvania, direct contact is available via phone. It is always recommended to call ahead for the most accurate and current information regarding reservations, availability, specific amenities, and any seasonal operational details.

  • Address: Hemlock Hideaway Campground is located at 17621 Seclusion Ln, James Creek, PA 16657, USA. When planning your route, this address should be used for navigation.
  • Phone: The campground provides dedicated phone numbers for inquiries.
  • Local Phone: (814) 658-3663
  • Mobile Phone: +1 814-658-3663 (This number is likely the primary contact for reaching the campground directly).

It is advisable to contact Hemlock Hideaway Campground directly using these phone numbers. This will allow you to:

  • Confirm campsite availability and make reservations.
  • Inquire about specific types of sites (e.g., tent, RV with hookups).
  • Ask about current rates and any special offers.
  • Get details on the operating hours for the on-site store, BBQ, and mini golf.
  • Address any specific questions about campground rules, amenities, or local attractions.

Direct communication ensures you have the most up-to-date information for planning your camping trip to Hemlock Hideaway Campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Pennsylvania, Hemlock Hideaway Campground in James Creek presents an appealing option for an outdoor escape, particularly for those who prioritize a quieter, more secluded experience coupled with access to significant natural attractions. Its suitability for locals stems from its strategic location, the type of experience it offers, and its proximity to beloved regional highlights.

Firstly, the "hideaway" aspect of the campground is a significant draw for Pennsylvanians seeking a genuine break from their daily routines. The location on Seclusion Lane promises a tranquil setting, allowing campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the peaceful sounds and sights of the forest. This quiet atmosphere is invaluable for locals looking to destress, relax by a campfire, and simply enjoy the serene natural beauty that Pennsylvania offers, away from the often-crowded larger campgrounds.

Secondly, its proximity to Lake Raystown is a major advantage for any local outdoor enthusiast. Lake Raystown is a jewel in Pennsylvania, famous for its expansive waters and diverse recreational opportunities. From fishing and boating to swimming and water sports, having this magnificent lake practically on your doorstep means a vast array of activities are easily accessible. For mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts, the renowned Allegrippis Trails are also nearby, providing world-class trails. This makes Hemlock Hideaway an excellent basecamp for exploring one of Pennsylvania's premier outdoor playgrounds, allowing locals to fully utilize these cherished resources without extensive travel.

Furthermore, the convenience of an on-site store and recreational activities like mini golf adds a layer of comfort that many local families appreciate. While individual experiences with service may vary, the presence of these amenities means less need to leave the campground for basic needs or entertainment, contributing to a more relaxed and self-contained vacation experience. This is particularly beneficial for families with children or those who prefer to minimize travel once they've set up camp.

In essence, Hemlock Hideaway Campground caters to a segment of the Pennsylvania population that values seclusion, direct access to significant outdoor attractions like Lake Raystown, and a more laid-back camping atmosphere. It offers a practical and appealing choice for locals to experience the natural beauty and recreational richness of their own state, providing a convenient and serene haven for their outdoor adventures.

Location

PennsylvaniaHuntingdon CountyJames CreekSeclusion Ln

Customer Reviews

4.0
88 reviews
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Brandon Gerst
May 27, 2025

The camp site was too small. We had a big hill and rocks surrounding the fire ring. We struggled to get everyone in our party to be comfortable around it. Mini golf was over priced and the service was awful. The girls in the store was rude and not very helpful.

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SHANNON B
Jul 11, 2024

My daughters and I came here to get ice cream on 07/06. We were told it was really good and we had to try it. Honestly I’ll say that the service that we received from start to finish from the young bleach blonde girl was horrible. She obviously either doesn’t like her job or maybe it’s something deeper but she was very unfriendly. We ordered our ice cream and I took one bite of it and couldn’t eat anymore. I really think it was the way we were treated that left a bad taste in my mouth but we will not be going back. Customer service is HUGE and that is what has people coming back to spend their hard earned money on overpriced ice cream. Please train your staff to be kind even if they are having a bad day or keep them out of the window.

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Calvin Shirk
Aug 01, 2023

We stayed as an extended family and had 8 cabins and and RV rented. We got there Sunday afternoon and stayed until Wednesday morning. It was very quiet as there were very few other campers (in our area of the park at least). Our teenagers enjoyed the horse shoe pit and volley ball one evening. The pool at the camp store was nice. There is a nice place to keep boats in a sheltered shed while staying here. A number of the cabins have been there for quite a while and need to be re-leveled (I deliver sheds and noticed this first thing!) and have siding repaired. The camp sits on the side of a pretty steep hill, and the gravel roads have quite some ruts washed into them. My brother-in-law's full-size van with skirting was almost dragging on a lot of the driveways.

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C Williams
Sep 15, 2018

The cabins were clean and very nice for what you pay. The boat parking area helps when you want to go out and visit the local State Forest. Mini-golf at the campground was well built and entertaining even for adults. We didn't get a chance to try the pool, but it looked clean. Campground staff were very helpful and kind. This campground is about 5 minutes away from the marina/public beach which is perfect. We will return for sure.

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David Speicher Sr
Sep 04, 2020

I will not be back. The Pros: Quiet, friendly staff, close to the lake and very nice camp store. The Cons: Nothing is level except the pads the campers sit on. Beware the sections along the main road. The owners allow boaters to park trailers along the roadway and it makes it difficult to navigate with a large combination in an already challenging roadway. Turning around is very challenging because it is on a hill and the owners did not make much room to maneuver. The camp store seem to be only open on the weekend when we were there. I do not know when it is open during the week. The store hours are not posted on the door. There is almost no cell service. The Wi-Fi worked fine close to the camp store only. On the weekend when the campground was full it dropped often.