Hickory Run State Park’s Boulder Field is a stunning natural landmark, covering 16 acres with massive boulders formed by glaciers around 20,000 years ago. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark, it’s the largest boulder field in the Appalachian region. Accessible via a 3.5-mile trail or a 5-mile dirt road loop, the field offers a unique experience for visitors. However, the road may be closed in winter due to ice and snow, so plan accordingly.

Sand Spring Lake is a popular spot for swimming, fishing and picnicking. The lake features a sandy beach for visitors to relax, and the surrounding area includes picnic tables, grills, and restrooms for convenience. It is open for swimming from late May through mid-September, with lifeguards on duty during peak hours. The lake also provides a peaceful setting for anglers, with designated fishing areas available. Additionally, the nearby Sand Spring Day Use Area offers more recreational amenities.

A great hike for the whole family is Shades of Death Trail. But don’t let the ominous name fool you. European colonists named it for its dark forests, numerous swamps, and rocky, un-farmable soil. Today, those features make for a stunning journey. The two mile out-and-back trail follows the course of the Sand Spring Run and showcases small natural cascades and larger waterfalls created by man-made dams. It meanders through rhododendron thickets and unique rock formations plus three dams that are prime trout fishing spots.

Hawk Falls is a short 0.6 mile walk on the east side of the park. The loop trail leads through a tunnel of rhododendron, winds down the hill, crosses the creek and circles back to Hawk Falls, a natural 25-foot waterfall.  This is an incredibly scenic spot to visit in the park. You can also access Mud Run, a great fishing spot, from this trail. The entrance is directly across the street from the trail to Boulder Field.

Located in the northwestern corner of the park, Fireline Trail is one of the prettiest scenic overlooks and makes for a beautiful sunset hike. The 2.4 miles out-and-back-trail is difficult, but the view from the vista is worth it. You’ll have a commanding view of the Lehigh River, remnants of an old railroad bridge and Lehigh Gorge State Park on the opposite side of the river.

Camping at Hickory Run State Park offers a peaceful escape into nature with over 350 campsites, including options for RVs, tents, rustic cottages and deluxe cottages. Amenities like restrooms, showers, laundry and a camp store ensure convenience, and pet-friendly sites welcome furry friends. Close to trails and Sand Spring Lake, the campground is a perfect base for exploring the park. Modern camping is available from mid-April to late October, with rustic options extending to mid-December.

Don’t leave home without your best hiking boots. Be prepared to trek through forests of hemlock, hickory and spruce studded with mountain laurel and rhododendron, bubbling streams, cascading waterfalls and plenty of wildlife. The park contains 44 miles of trails that offer a variety of hiking experiences, from family-friendly treks to more advanced routes. With 25 trails in all, there’re plenty of options for everyone.

Hickory Run State Park offers a variety of fishing spots, including streams like Hickory Run, Mud Run, and stocked Sand Spring Run, as well as Sand Spring Lake and the CCC Pond, which features an accessible fishing pier. The Lehigh River, along the park’s western border, is open year-round for trout, panfish and game fish. Don’t forget your Pennsylvania fishing license!

Cool off at Sand Spring Lake, a summer hotspot at Hickory Run State Park. With a sandy beach and designated swimming area open from late May to mid-September, it’s perfect for relaxing or enjoying family fun like building sandcastles or picnicking. The nearby Sand Spring Day Use Area features amenities like a snack stand, picnic pavilions, grills, restrooms and a playground. A half-mile Beach Trail links the campground to the lake, making it easy to enjoy a sunny day outdoors.

Hickory Run State Park features a 19-hole disc golf course near the Sand Spring Day Use Area. The flat, moderately wooded course spans about one mile in length and includes crushed stone tees and basket holes. Open year-round (weather permitting), be sure to bring your own equipment to play.

Hickory Run State Park offers orienteering with three courses: beginner and intermediate trails starting at Sand Spring Day Use Area and an advanced course near Saylorsville Dam. For geocaching, visitors can explore hidden caches like the Hidden Gems Geocache Series and Boulder Field GPS Tour. Information and maps for both activities are available at the Visitor Center and online, with an emphasis on practicing “cache in, trash out.”

Hickory Run State Park is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of species in its varied habitats. The park’s woodlands, streams, and meadows provide a home for many animals, including black bears, wild turkeys and deer. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, such as belted kingfishers, broad-winged hawks and wood warblers.

Hickory Run State Park is a fantastic destination for fall foliage, offering vibrant colors and stunning scenery as the leaves change. The park’s diverse landscape, with its mix of hardwood forests, rolling hills, and streams, creates a picturesque backdrop for autumn hikes. Popular trails like the Boulder Field Trail and Hickory Run Trail provide beautiful views of the changing leaves, with shades of red, orange, and yellow lighting up the park.

Hickory Run State Park offers winter activities like cross-country skiing on 14 miles of ungroomed trails marked with blue blazes, providing natural scenic views. Ice skating is available on Sand Spring Lake when conditions allow, though ice thickness isn’t monitored and snow is not cleared. For snowmobiling, the park has 21 miles of marked trails with orange blazes, offering a thrilling way to explore the snowy landscape.

The Visitor Center and Office offers a 24/7 vestibule with maps, guides and public restrooms. Inside, the 2,400-square-foot exhibit lobby showcases the park’s natural wonders, including its watershed, wildlife and conservation efforts. A multipurpose classroom hosts community activities such as Scout meetings and school field trips and is an ideal starting point for exploring and learning about the park.

Hickory Run State Park offers a variety of events throughout the year, from outdoor activities to educational programs. These events provide great opportunities for visitors to explore nature, learn about the park and enjoy seasonal experiences. For up-to-date information on upcoming events, be sure to check the park’s Facebook events page.