[3] Gaultheria hispidula is an evergreen prostrate shrub that forms a mat of stems and leaves that can reach 1 m (3+1⁄2 ft) in diameter and only 10 centimetres (3.9 in) high.

[4] Gaultheria hispidula grows in acidic and neutral soils in open woodland and forest verges,[4] particularly on wet ground such as in or on the edge of bogs, often near tree stumps.

It is pollinated by solitary bees, bumblebees, bee-flies, and hoverflies, while chipmunks and deer mice spread the seed.

[6] Like most plants in North America, deforestation and competition with invasive ornamentals (especially shade-loving groundcovers, such as English ivy or winter creeper commonly sold at garden centers) affect the creeping snowberry significantly.

[7][8] It is listed as endangered in Maryland and New Jersey, as threatened in Rhode Island, as sensitive in Washington, as rare in Pennsylvania, as presumed extirpated in Ohio,[9] and as a species of special concern in Connecticut.