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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

TOMPKINS

Nelson, New York · Tioga County · Campground

Overview Tompkins Campground is on the north shore of Cowanesque Lake in the northern tier of Pennsylvania, less than one mile from the New York state border. Surrounded by lush forested ridges, the lake offers recreation for the entire family, including picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, hunting and wildl…

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41.98083, -77.18944
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About TOMPKINS

Overview Tompkins Campground is on the north shore of Cowanesque Lake in the northern tier of Pennsylvania, less than one mile from the New York state border. Surrounded by lush forested ridges, the lake offers recreation for the entire family, including picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, hunting and wildlife watching. The campground is a great place for kids of any age.Recreation Cowanesque Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities. With a boat ramp and overnight mooring, campers can easily spend time on the water. There are a variety of indigenous fish that inhabit the area's streams and lakes, and fishing tournaments are held frequently. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing downstream of Cowanesque Dam. The fields and forests around the lakes are popular destinations for both local and out-of-state hunters looking for large and small game species native to the eastern hardwood forests. The 4 mile Moccasin Trail within the facility leads hikers on a trek through reclaimed farm fields and wood lots inhabited by a variety of watchable wildlife.Facilities Tompkins has a variety of shoreline sites, most of which have electric hookups. The campground includes 109 traditional campsites and, 16 tent only hike-in sites.A boat ramp, drinking water, hot showers, playgrounds and a dump station are also provided. There are two overlooks and two downstream fishing access points. Natural Features The partially forested campground sits in the pristine setting of the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling mountains and open fields.Charges & Cancellations Reservations to include any reservation changes, such as cancel, refund requests, site transfer, or date changes cannot be made at facility location.

How to Get There

Take U.S. Highway 15 to the Lawrenceville/Route 49 exit. Go one mile east on Route 49 to Lawrenceville. At the traffic light turn left onto State Route 287. Cross the Cowanesque River Bridge at the edge of town and make an immediate left turn onto Bliss Road. Continue 5 miles to the campground entrance.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to TOMPKINS

Heading to TOMPKINS? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for TOMPKINS?

No central reservation system listed for TOMPKINS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233652) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to TOMPKINS?

Take U.S. Highway 15 to the Lawrenceville/Route 49 exit. Go one mile east on Route 49 to Lawrenceville. At the traffic light turn left onto State Route 287. Cross the Cowanesque River Bridge at the edge of town and make an immediate left turn onto Bliss Road. Continue 5 miles to the campground entrance.

How do I contact TOMPKINS?

You can reach the park at email: CowanesqueLakeWEB@usace.army.mil.