Camping at LAUREL RIDGE STATE PARK
Overview of Laurel Ridge State Park
Laurel Ridge State Park is a 13,625-acre park that spans across the counties of Somerset, Fayette and Westmoreland in Pennsylvania. The park is known for its rugged mountain terrain and scenic beauty, particularly during the fall foliage season. It is also home to the 70-mile long Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which serves as the main feature of the park.
Camping at Laurel Ridge State Park
Adirondack Shelters: The park offers a unique backcountry camping experience throughout its length, primarily with Adirondack-style shelters. These are three-sided structures with a roof that provide basic accommodation for hikers along the trail. Reservations are generally required to ensure availability.
Tent Camping: Tent camping is also possible near many of the shelters, enabling those who prefer a more traditional tent setup to use the space available.
Amenities: Each shelter area typically has a water source, although the water needs to be treated before drinking. Dry composting toilets are also available near the shelter areas.
Reservations and Permits: Camping on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail at the shelters and tent sites requires reservations which can be made in advance through the Pennsylvania State Park reservation system. A camping permit is also required and is usually obtained when making your reservation.
Activities in Laurel Ridge State Park
Hiking: The primary activity is hiking the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which is marked with yellow blazes and connects to a number of state parks and forest lands.
Winter Activities: During the winter months, parts of the park, including the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, are popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Birdwatching and Nature Observation: The park's diverse ecosystems make it a great spot for birdwatching and observing various wildlife and plants, especially during the migratory seasons.
Visitor Information
Operating Hours: Laurel Ridge State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
Check-In: Backpackers are required to check in for their shelter reservations which is often done at the start of the trail or a nearby park office.
Pets: Pets are typically allowed in Pennsylvania state parks, but there may be restrictions in certain areas or specific rules to follow, so it's best to check the park's regulations.
Safety Considerations: As with any outdoor activity, it's important to be prepared for changing weather conditions, potentially rugged terrain, and wildlife. Always have a map, plan your route, bring necessary supplies, and let someone know your itinerary.
Contact Information: Before visiting, it's a good idea to check with the park office for current conditions and any specific advisories:
- Phone: You can get the latest information and make reservations by contacting the Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation System.
For more detailed and the most current information, refer directly to the Pennsylvania State Parks' official website or the specific page for Laurel Ridge State Park.
