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Exploring Hills Creek State Park with Ben Stone
Manage episode 480720897 series 3658690
Nestled in Tioga County between Mansfield and Wellsboro, Hills Creek State Park offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by farmland. Unlike other regional parks, it’s bordered by private land, giving it a quiet, remote feel—yet it's conveniently close to town. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Division Manager Ben Stone about this beautiful area.
A key feature is its 137-acre warm-water lake, great for year-round fishing, especially bass and panfish. In winter, it’s one of the first to freeze, with over a foot of ice this past season. For ice safety, 4 inches of clear ice is ideal, and it’s always best to go with a buddy and carry safety gear.
Open year-round, Hills Creek features cabins, yurts, and 83 campsites, including full hookups and basic sites for tents. The yurts, perched by the lake, are upgraded with real windows, kitchenettes, and offer stunning views. The campground is family-friendly, with pet sites and low-speed roads perfect for kids on bikes.
There are several scenic hiking trails, including parts of the Mid-State Trail and interpretive walks like Yellow Birch Trail. The park is also popular for wildlife and bird watching, especially during spring migrations and beaver activity around the lake.
Maple syruping is a seasonal highlight. Visitors can watch traditional tapping and learn about syrup production—40 gallons of sap make one gallon of syrup! Hills Creek has even won friendly syrup-making competitions among state parks.
The park is maintained by a dedicated team, including office staff, maintenance workers, educators, and rangers. They work year-round to keep facilities running and assist visitors. Career paths in the park system range from internships to full-time roles in law enforcement and environmental education.
As part of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Hills Creek is surrounded by state forests and trails, including the Pine Creek Rail Trail. Whether you're camping, hiking, or birding, it's a perfect spot to enjoy nature. Always plan ahead, let someone know your route, and enjoy all the park has to offer—safely.
Key Topics:
- About Hills Creek State Park (00:00)
- Cabins and Campgrounds at Hills Creek (06:16)
- The Lakeside Trail and Other Recreational Amenities (11:24)
- Wildlife at the Park (14:14)
- Maple Syruping at Hills Creek (16:07)
- Employment Opportunities at the Park (20:29)
Resources:
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🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau
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