Ives Run Recreation Area - Image 1
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Ives Run Recreation Area

4.6
·367 reviews·Tioga, United States

A peaceful campground with spacious sites, private bathrooms, and water access, ideal for boaters and relaxation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Ives Run Recreation Area - Image 1

Ives Run Recreation Area

Best Time

October

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A peaceful campground with spacious sites, private bathrooms, and water access, ideal for boaters and relaxation.

4.6
(367 reviews)

"Spacious campsites with private bathrooms and great views make Ives Run a gem, but plan for off-site supplies."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Amenities Before Arrival

Camp store & kayak rentals often closed. Bring your own firewood & ice. :shopping_bags:

Check Campsite Hookup Distances

Hickory loop sites may have water/elec. 60ft away. Bring an extender! :electric_plug:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spacious Campsites with Views

Spacious Campsites with Views

Various loops

Enjoy large, well-maintained campsites, many offering wonderful hilltop views. Perfect for RVs and tents.

Reddit+1
Private Individual Bathrooms

Private Individual Bathrooms

Campsites

Each campsite features a private bathroom with a shower and toilet, offering a comfortable and convenient experience.

Reddit
Archery Trail

Archery Trail

Near the campground

Test your archery skills on a neat little trail with several stations along a mile-long path.

Reddit
Water Access for Boaters

Water Access for Boaters

Pine Loop

Direct water access sites are available in the Pine Loop, ideal for boaters. Free boat mooring for campers.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Campground Amenities: Check Before You Go

The campground store and kayak rentals are often closed. Confirm availability of firewood, ice, and rentals before your trip to avoid a drive into town. Reddit+1

Campsite Hookups: Read the Details

Some sites, especially in the Hickory loop, have water and electricity hookups over 60 feet away. Always check the site details when booking to ensure you have the necessary equipment like an electric extender. Reddit

Best Times

When
October
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Confirm Amenities Before Arrival

Camp store & kayak rentals often closed. Bring your own firewood & ice. Reddit+1 :shopping_bags:

Check Campsite Hookup Distances

Hickory loop sites may have water/elec. 60ft away. Bring an extender! Reddit :electric_plug:

Kayak Launch Points

Pine loop offers direct water access for kayakers. Enjoy free boat mooring! Reddit :kayak:

Respect Electric Bike Rules

Be mindful of speed limits and pedestrian areas when using e-bikes. Reddit :mountain_bicyclist:

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Amenities Before Arrival

Camp store & kayak rentals often closed. Bring your own firewood & ice. Reddit+1 :shopping_bags:

Check Campsite Hookup Distances

Hickory loop sites may have water/elec. 60ft away. Bring an extender! Reddit :electric_plug:

Kayak Launch Points

Pine loop offers direct water access for kayakers. Enjoy free boat mooring! Reddit :kayak:

Respect Electric Bike Rules

Be mindful of speed limits and pedestrian areas when using e-bikes. Reddit :mountain_bicyclist:

Prepare for Limited Local Activities

Beyond the campground, activities are limited. Consider visiting the nearby dam. Reddit :car:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(367 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Campers at Ives Run Recreation Area often praise the spacious campsites and the unique convenience of private individual bathrooms. The scenic views and free boat mooring are also highlights. However, frequent closures of the camp store and lack of on-site firewood can be a significant drawback, requiring visitors to plan ahead and bring their own supplies.

"What I loved most about this campground are the campsites. They’re all fairly spacious. Ours in particular sat on top of a hill and had a wonderful view.
Each bathroom was individual with a shower and toilet. I really liked the privacy it provided.
The beach was decent. Not a huge sand area to play in though.
Found a neat little archery trail that you could test your archery skills with. Had several different stations along a mile path.
Only downfall is that we didn’t find too much to do in the area, other than visit the dam. This place would be more ideal for boaters.

Side note *campground store not operating"

Amanda K

"We camp here every year and love this place. Stayed again in October 2025. The volunteers do a great job and so does the staff. Warning, the Hickory loop have the water and electricity sometimes up to 60 feet away. This is noted on when you view the spot so read carefully before you show up. Make sure you have a electric extender."

Ridge C

"It’s a pretty place. Sites were large and well maintained. Never met the camp hosts as we didn’t need them. Older crowd, entirely white as far as I could tell. If you go to Kayak, direct water access sites are in the pine loop. Camp store was closed the entire time we were there, laundry also closed. Showers and restrooms clean. No parties happening, really quiet considering the number of campers. Only saw a few in tents. Free mooring of boats for campers, life jackets available free for use."

P O

What People Like

Spacious campsites
Private bathrooms
Scenic views

What People Dislike

Closed camp store
No firewood on-site
Limited local activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ives Run Recreation Area is accessible by car. It's located near the Susquehanna River in northern Pennsylvania. GPS coordinates or a mapping app will guide you directly to the entrance. Reddit

Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to travel by personal vehicle or rental car to reach Ives Run Recreation Area. Reddit

The most common routes involve highways like US-220 or PA-15. Use a GPS navigation system for real-time traffic updates and the most direct route from your starting point. Reddit

Yes, there are small towns nearby where you can find basic supplies. However, as noted by campers, the campground store is often closed, so it's wise to stock up before arriving. Reddit+1

Roads leading to and within the recreation area are generally well-maintained. However, be aware of potential seasonal conditions like snow or ice in winter months. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ives Run Recreation Area is primarily a campground. While there isn't an admission ticket for general entry, you will need to pay camping fees if you plan to stay overnight. Reddit

Campgrounds typically operate on a 24-hour basis for registered campers. However, the campground office or store may have specific operating hours, which are often limited or closed. Reddit+1

Campsites can usually be booked online through the relevant park service website or a reservation system. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular weekends or holidays. Reddit

Check-in procedures can vary. Sometimes there's a gate attendant, but campers have reported finding the gate building closed and needing to find a host to check in. Reddit+1

While primarily a campground, day-use access might be available for certain areas. It's best to check the official park website or inquire locally about any day-use fees. Reddit

🎫 🏕️ Onsite Experience

Campsites are generally spacious and well-maintained, with many offering excellent views. Some sites have water and electricity, but distances can vary significantly. Reddit+2

Yes, there are individual bathrooms with showers and toilets at each campsite, providing a good level of privacy. Reddit+1

Activities include camping, fishing, boating (with free mooring for campers), and an archery trail. The beach area is decent but not extensive. Reddit+1

Campers frequently report that the camp store is closed and firewood is not available on-site. You'll likely need to purchase these in town. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Ives Run offers free mooring for campers' boats and direct water access sites in the Pine Loop. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is no restaurant or cafe on-site. The campground store, which might have sold snacks, is frequently reported as closed. Reddit+1

You'll need to drive into a nearby town for groceries, ice, and firewood. Plan your shopping trip before you arrive at the campground. Reddit+1

While not explicitly detailed in reviews, most recreation areas offer picnic tables. It's a good idea to bring your own picnic supplies. Reddit

Yes, campsites are equipped for cooking. Most campers bring their own grills, camp stoves, and cooking utensils. Reddit

Campers usually bring non-perishable items, pre-made meals, and ingredients for grilling or campfire cooking. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for scenic views from your campsite, especially those on hilltops. The lake and surrounding natural landscapes offer beautiful photo opportunities. Reddit+1

Yes, the natural beauty of the recreation area, including the water and wooded areas, provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Reddit

The nearby dam is a notable structure. Also, capture the unique individual bathrooms and the expansive campsites for a different perspective. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ives Run Recreation Area offers a family-friendly camping experience with the unique advantage of private individual bathrooms at each campsite, which can be a huge convenience with children. The spacious campsites provide plenty of room for kids to play. While the beach isn't extensive, the archery trail offers a fun activity. However, families should be prepared for the lack of an on-site store or readily available firewood, so stocking up on essentials before arrival is key. Reddit+1

Consider booking a site with a good view if possible, as this can add to the enjoyment. If your family enjoys boating, the direct water access in the Pine Loop is a great perk. Be mindful that activities outside the immediate campground are limited, so plan for campsite-based fun or day trips to nearby attractions like the dam. Reddit+1

🚤 Boaters and Water Enthusiasts

For those who love being on the water, Ives Run Recreation Area is an excellent choice. The Pine Loop offers direct water access and, crucially, free boat mooring for campers. This makes it incredibly convenient to launch and secure your vessel. The lake provides opportunities for various water sports and fishing. Reddit

While kayak rentals are often unavailable, bringing your own kayaks or canoes is highly recommended. The general ambiance of the campground, often described as quiet, complements a relaxing day on the water. Remember to check the status of any boat launch facilities and be aware of local boating regulations. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Lovers

Ives Run Recreation Area provides a peaceful setting for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is known for fishing, and the campground offers a comfortable base for your outdoor adventures. The spacious campsites allow for easy setup of gear, and the private bathrooms add a touch of comfort after a day spent exploring. Reddit

Beyond fishing, the archery trail offers a unique recreational activity. While the immediate area might not have extensive hiking trails, the natural surroundings are pleasant for leisurely walks. Be sure to pack all necessary fishing gear and bait, as these are not available on-site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Ives Run: What to Expect

Ives Run Recreation Area offers a generally positive camping experience, with many campers praising the spacious and well-maintained campsites. A standout feature is the private individual bathrooms at each site, providing a level of convenience and privacy not often found in campgrounds. Many sites boast wonderful views, particularly those situated on hilltops. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential issues with utility hookups; some sites, especially in the Hickory loop, have water and electricity located a significant distance away, sometimes up to 60 feet. Campers are strongly advised to read site descriptions carefully when booking and to bring necessary equipment like an electric extender if needed. Reddit+2

Several reviews highlight that the campground store is frequently closed, and amenities like firewood and kayak rentals may not be available. This means visitors should plan to purchase these items in nearby towns before arriving. Despite these potential inconveniences, the overall atmosphere is often described as quiet and peaceful, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxing getaway. The availability of free boat mooring for campers and direct water access in the Pine Loop makes it particularly attractive for boating enthusiasts. Reddit+2

While the beach is noted as decent, it's not a large sandy area for extensive play. For those looking for a bit of activity, there's a neat little archery trail with multiple stations along a mile-long path. However, some visitors have mentioned that there isn't a vast amount to do in the immediate surrounding area beyond the recreation area itself, suggesting it's best suited for those who enjoy boating or simply relaxing at their campsite. Reddit

Navigating Campsite Hookups and Amenities

When booking a campsite at Ives Run, pay close attention to the details regarding water and electricity hookups. While many sites offer these amenities, the distance from the hookup point to your RV or tent can vary considerably. This is particularly true for sites in the Hickory loop, where hookups might be as far as 60 feet away. To avoid disappointment and ensure you can connect your equipment, it's essential to read the site-specific information provided during the booking process. Bringing an electric extender is a wise precaution for anyone camping in this loop. Reddit

Another common point of feedback is the unreliability of on-site amenities. The campground store is often reported as closed, meaning you'll need to source essentials like ice and firewood from external vendors. Similarly, kayak rentals may not be available. This lack of readily available supplies means campers should plan ahead and pack accordingly, or be prepared for a drive into town. While the individual bathrooms are a significant plus, the availability of other services can be hit-or-miss. Reddit+1

For those who enjoy water activities, the Pine Loop offers direct water access and free boat mooring for campers. This makes it an excellent choice for boaters and kayakers. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the operational status of any rental services or specific facilities before your visit to manage expectations. Reddit

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