Camping at LAUREL HILL STATE PARK

Overview of Laurel Hill State Park

Laurel Hill State Park is a picturesque recreational area located in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The park covers an area of approximately 3,935 acres, providing a natural sanctuary for many plant and animal species. The park's centerpiece is the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake, which offers a variety of water-related activities.

Camping Information

Facilities:

• Family Campground: The park has a large family campground that includes modern sites with electricity and more rustic, non-electric sites. It is divided into several loops with some sites adjacent to Laurel Hill Lake.
• Organized Group Tenting: Laurel Hill State Park provides areas designated for group tenting, which are available to adult and youth groups.

Amenities:

• Campsites usually come with a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Bathhouses provide hot showers and flush toilets.
• Some sites may offer full service with sewer, water, and electric hook-ups.

Reservations:

• Reservations for camping can be made online through the official Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system or by calling the toll-free number.

Seasons:

• The campground is typically open from mid-April through late October, with some campsites remaining open through deer season in December.

Activities

Water Recreation:

• Boating: Electric motors and non-powered watercraft are allowed on Laurel Hill Lake. A boat rental concession in summer offers canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and paddleboats.
• Fishing: The lake is stocked with trout and also has populations of bass, perch, and other fish. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required for those 16 years of age or older.

Trails:

• The park boasts more than 15 miles of trails suitable for hiking, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Some trails are also part of a larger network that connects to Forbes State Forest.

Swimming:

• A sandy beach is open from late-May to mid-September, providing visitors with a swimming area.

Picnicking:

• Many picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, some with views of the lake or along streams. They offer tables, grills, and restroom facilities.

Winter Activities:

• In addition to cross-country skiing on the trails, visitors can engage in sledding, tobogganing, and snowmobiling on designated trails.

Nature Programs and Education:

• The park provides environmental education and interpretive programs, including guided walks and hands-on activities, especially during the summer months.

Regulations and Tips

• Alcohol: Laurel Hill State Park is an alcohol-free park. Alcohol is not permitted.
• Pets: Pets are welcome at designated campsites, but they must be leashed and controlled at all times.
• Campfires: Fires are permitted only in provided fire rings or grills.
• Quiet Hours: Observe quiet hours from 9 PM to 8 AM to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers.
• Protect Wildlife: Do not feed wildlife and dispose of garbage properly to prevent attracting animals.
• Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by carrying out all trash and belongings and leaving the campsite as you found it for the next visitors.

Contact and Reservation Details

For reservation and detailed park information, visitors should contact the Laurel Hill State Park office or visit the Pennsylvania State Parks' official website. It is always a good idea to check for any alerts or updates regarding park conditions before planning your trip.

Park Office: Laurel Hill State Park Office 1454 Laurel Hill Park Road Somerset, PA 15501

Reservations:

• Online: Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation site.
• Phone: Call the toll-free reservation line at 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757).

By being well-prepared and following the park's guidelines, campers can ensure they have a safe and enjoyable experience at Laurel Hill State Park.