Laurel Hill State Park Campground

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For Pennsylvanians seeking an immersive outdoor experience with the convenience of well-maintained facilities, Laurel Hill State Park Campground in Somerset, PA, stands as a premier choice. Nestled within the picturesque Laurel Highlands, this expansive campground offers a wide array of camping options and direct access to the stunning 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake, making it a focal point for water-based recreation and miles of scenic hiking trails. This article is designed specifically for you, our local Pennsylvania users, to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of what makes Laurel Hill State Park Campground a highly recommended destination for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone looking to reconnect with the natural beauty of our state.

Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands region is renowned for its rugged beauty, abundant forests, and pristine waterways, offering an ideal escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Laurel Hill State Park, at the heart of this region, perfectly encapsulates this spirit. The campground within the park is described as "beautiful" and "pretty clean," providing a welcoming atmosphere for campers. With a variety of site types, from full hookup RV spots to electric and non-electric tent sites, it caters to diverse preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. The highlight of the park, Laurel Hill Lake, serves as a hub for swimming, boating, and excellent fishing, while the extensive trail system invites exploration of the surrounding natural wonders. While some older reviews mention issues with campground showers, newer information indicates "showers at the lake are beautiful" and general facilities are well-maintained. For those looking to truly disconnect, the limited cell service can be a blessing, allowing for a genuine immersion in nature. Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers a balanced blend of natural serenity and recreational opportunities, making it a go-to destination for local Pennsylvanians year after year.

Laurel Hill State Park Campground is located in Somerset, PA 15501, USA. More specifically, the campground is situated within Laurel Hill State Park, which encompasses 4,072 acres of mountainous terrain in Somerset County. The 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake is a central feature of the park, and the campground is positioned to provide easy access to it.

The park's location in the Laurel Highlands means it's part of a larger wilderness area, surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine state park and state forest lands, including Forbes State Forest. This provides an extended natural playground for visitors.

Accessibility to Laurel Hill State Park Campground is generally straightforward for most Pennsylvanians. It's located southeast of Pittsburgh, typically about an hour's drive, and is accessible via major routes. For those coming from the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), taking routes that lead directly through Somerset is often recommended by experienced campers to avoid challenging country roads with steep grades. While the park offers a secluded feel, it remains well-connected.

Within the park, a well-defined internal road system leads to the campground, various day-use areas, the lake, and trailheads. There's a Visitor Center just before entering the campground, which often serves as a point of contact for information and a small store. The easy walk from the campground to the lake and various hiking trails further enhances its accessibility for campers without needing to drive constantly.

Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to enhance the camping experience for diverse groups, from families to solo adventurers.

• Campsite Variety: The campground boasts a large number of sites, with 262 tent and trailer sites available. This includes a mix of electric hook-up sites (149 of them), non-electric sites, and some "full-service hook up" sites which provide sewer, water, and electricity. There are also walk-to sites accessible by trail from a parking area, and pull-thru sites for convenience.
• Camping Cottages: Eight camping cottages are available for rent, sleeping up to five people in bunk beds. These cottages offer wooden floors and walls, windows, screened porches, electric heat, lights, and outlets, providing a comfortable "glamping" option. Each cottage yard has a picnic table and fire ring.
• Modern Washhouses: The campground features modern washhouses with flush toilets and warm showers. While some older reviews note issues with specific shower heads, the overall consensus is that the facilities are clean and functional. Reviews also suggest that showers located near the lake are particularly well-maintained.
• Sanitary Dumping Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, allowing campers with full-service hookups or those staying at electric/non-electric sites to properly dispose of their wastewater.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, with spigots conveniently located.
• Visitor Center: A Visitor Center is located near the campground entrance, offering information, public restrooms, and a small camp supply and souvenir store where firewood and ice can be purchased.
• Coin-Operated Laundry: For longer stays or after muddy adventures, a coin-operated laundry facility is available within the campground, adding a practical convenience.
• Playgrounds: The campground features "nice playgrounds," making it very suitable for families with children.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is present, suggesting the possibility of interpretive programs or evening entertainment during peak seasons.
• Pet-Friendly Sites: Pets are permitted in designated campsites, allowing families to bring their furry companions along (with specific rules to follow).

Laurel Hill State Park Campground is rich with features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania:

• Beautiful Laurel Hill Lake: The 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake is the park's centerpiece and a major highlight. It offers excellent opportunities for swimming at the large, groomed beach (open seasonally), boating (with boat launches available), and fantastic fishing. The lake is stocked with various fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Extensive Hiking Trail System: The park boasts nearly 15 miles of well-marked hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Highlights include the Hemlock Trail, which passes through a grove of old-growth Eastern Hemlocks (some over 300 years old), and the Pumphouse Trail, leading to the picturesque Jones Mill Run Dam and its cascading waterfall. Many trails are easily accessible from the campground.
• Historical Significance: The park's facilities, including the Jones Mill Run Dam and various structures around the lake and beach, were largely constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. This historical aspect adds an interesting layer to the park's charm.
• Variety of Camping Experiences: From full-service RV sites to traditional tent camping and charming camping cottages, the campground caters to a wide range of preferences. The availability of electric and pet-friendly sites further enhances its appeal.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Overall, the campground is noted for being "pretty clean," with modern washhouses that include flush toilets and hot showers, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With "nice playgrounds" and ample space for children to play, along with diverse activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking, the campground is highly suitable for family vacations.
• Winter Activities: During colder months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a 10-mile snowmobile trail system that connects to Forbes State Forest, ice fishing, ice boating, and 20 miles of trails for cross-country skiing.
• Opportunities for Solitude: Despite its popularity, the extensive size of the park and the forested nature of the campsites (many with "good spacing") provide opportunities for peace and quiet. The limited cell service can also be a highlight for those looking to truly unplug.

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Laurel Hill State Park Campground primarily operates under the standardized pricing and reservation system set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Direct "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense are typically not advertised by individual state park campgrounds. However, there are systemic benefits and potential opportunities that can be considered:

• Affordable Rates: State park campgrounds generally offer competitive and often lower rates compared to private campgrounds, making them a cost-effective option for outdoor recreation.
• Reservation System: Most campsites can be reserved up to 11 months in advance via the DCNR's online reservation system or by phone (1-888-PA-PARKS). This allows campers to secure popular sites well ahead of time, especially for peak seasons.
• Seasonal Availability: The campground opens in early April and closes in late October, aligning with Pennsylvania's prime camping season. Special off-season rates or opportunities for group camping might be available outside this period.
• Volunteer Host Positions: Laurel Hill State Park offers "Free Camping for Campground Hosts." Two host positions are available, requiring 40 hours per week of assistance to park personnel with a two-week minimum stay. This is a significant "offer" for those willing to contribute their time.
• Educational and Interpretive Programs: While not a discount, the park often hosts various free educational and interpretive programs throughout the year (e.g., "Historic Waterfall Hike," "Bluebird Celebration," "CCC Tour"). These programs add significant value to a stay and are available to all park visitors.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and specific policies, including any general state-wide discounts (e.g., for seniors, veterans, or those with disabilities, if applicable to camping fees), it is always best to consult the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or contact the park directly.

To connect with Laurel Hill State Park Campground and plan your outdoor adventure in the Laurel Highlands, please use the following contact information:

• Address: Somerset, PA 15501, USA (located within Laurel Hill State Park)
• Park Office Phone: (814) 445-7725
• Mobile Phone: +1 814-445-7725
• Reservations: 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757) or visit the Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center website (pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com)

It is highly recommended to use the dedicated reservation line or website for booking campsites, as availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons and holidays. For specific questions about park conditions, facilities, or local activities, contacting the park office directly via phone is the best approach. Always check the official DCNR website for any current alerts or operational changes before your visit.

Laurel Hill State Park Campground is an ideal destination for locals across Pennsylvania for numerous compelling reasons. Its location in the beautiful Laurel Highlands provides easy access to stunning natural landscapes and a wealth of recreational opportunities right in our backyard. For families, the "beautiful campground" with "nice playgrounds" and abundant activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking around Laurel Hill Lake make it a perfect setting for creating lasting memories. Anglers will appreciate the well-stocked lake and streams, while hikers can explore nearly 15 miles of diverse trails, including those leading to the historic Jones Mill Run Dam and old-growth hemlock stands.

The variety of camping options, from full-hookup RV sites to tent sites and cozy camping cottages, ensures there's a comfortable fit for every preference and budget. While cell service might be limited, many Pennsylvanians will view this as a welcome opportunity to truly "unplug" and immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. The well-maintained facilities, including clean bathhouses (especially those by the lake), add to the comfort of the stay. Overall, Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers a comprehensive, affordable, and deeply enriching outdoor experience that celebrates the best of Pennsylvania's natural heritage, making it a suitable and highly recommended choice for local residents.

Laurel Hill State Park Campground

Somerset, PA 15501, USA