Laurel Ridge State Park

4.55

11 reviews

1117 JIM MOUNTAIN ROAD, ROCKWOOD, Pennsylvania, 15557, United States

Great Hiking

Quick Facts

2,707 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,707 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Laurel Ridge State Park

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America

Provider

7244553744

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What Campers Say

4.55

Top-Rated

Based on 11 reviews

420 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiet

"User reviews emphasize the park's natural beauty, the well-maintained trails, and the convenience of overnight shelters. Some concerns are raised about the quality of water and the smell of toilets."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1117 JIM MOUNTAIN ROAD, ROCKWOOD, Pennsylvania, 15557, United States

Laurel Ridge State Park

1117 JIM MOUNTAIN ROAD, ROCKWOOD, Pennsylvania, 15557, United States

Driving directionsLaurel Ridge State Park is in Cambria, Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset counties, Pennsylvania.

Accessibility is contingent upon using appropriate roads within Cambria, Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset counties as entry points. No mention of specific road types, seasonal closures, or challenges.

Nearby supplies

A ranger station is present

further details about grocery stores, camping supplies, or fuel are unavailable.

Best Time to Camp at Laurel Ridge State Park

Experience the full drama of Pennsylvania's changing seasons at Laurel Ridge. Spring arrives with gentle temperatures between 40°F and 70°F, perfect for witnessing nature's awakening under clear, dry skies. Summer brings warmth that peaks near 78°F, ideal for long days on the trail. Autumn mirrors spring's comfortable conditions while treating visitors to spectacular foliage displays. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, where cold temperatures create perfect conditions for snowshoeing and winter camping adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Summer trails are less crowded, offering solitude and good hiking conditions.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Mid-October delivers stunning fall foliage; reviewers highlight beautiful autumn scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers and fresh green leaf-out; reviewers note vibrant spring scenery.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Cross-country skiing available; winter is scenic though conditions are seasonally limited.

Planning Tips

About Laurel Ridge State Park

Welcome to Laurel Ridge State Park, where 13,625 acres of pristine wilderness beckon adventurers across four Pennsylvania counties. This expansive natural sanctuary transforms the rugged terrain of Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The crown jewel of this magnificent landscape is the legendary 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, winding through forests that burst with mountain laurel and rhododendron blooms each summer, paint themselves in brilliant autumn hues come October, and wrap themselves in pristine snow blankets throughout winter.

Camping at Laurel Ridge State Park is focused on backpacking and primitive camping. Overnight shelters are available along the trail, suitable for single or multi-day hikes.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Pennsylvania's changing seasons at Laurel Ridge. Spring arrives with gentle temperatures between 40°F and 70°F, perfect for witnessing nature's awakening under clear, dry skies. Summer brings warmth that peaks near 78°F, ideal for long days on the trail. Autumn mirrors spring's comfortable conditions while treating visitors to spectacular foliage displays. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, where cold temperatures create perfect conditions for snowshoeing and winter camping adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living canvas that transforms with each passing season. Early April welcomes you with delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor, while late April brings an explosion of fresh green as trees burst into leaf. June showcases nature's grand performance as mountain laurel blooms paint the hillsides pink and white, followed by rhododendron's dramatic display in late June and early July. October stages perhaps the most spectacular show, when the forest erupts in a symphony of gold, crimson, and amber. Winter nights bring their own magic, as snow blankets the landscape in pristine white and the haunting call of great horned owls echoes through moonlit forests.

Geological RegionPerched atop the scenic Laurel Mountain ridge, this remarkable park traces a dramatic path from the rushing waters of the Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle to the impressive depths of the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. This unique geological positioning creates a semi-wilderness corridor that offers some of Pennsylvania's most rewarding backpacking and hiking experiences, where rugged terrain meets accessible adventure.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The park is primarily geared towards hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is the centerpiece, offering a 70-mile semi-wilderness hiking experience. Other recreational opportunities include cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing, and activities at picnic areas and pavilions.

HikingThe Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail stretches 70 miles, providing a semi-wilderness experience. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, with varied difficulty. Trail shelters are available at regular intervals. Some sections, such as the initial 2-3 miles at the Northern terminus, are a constant uphill climb.

BikingBiking is allowed in designated areas but not on hiking trails.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as great horned owls can be observed, especially during quieter hours like at night.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include challenging terrain and limited water availability at trailheads, as noted. User reviews emphasize the risk of getting "hurt or lost" on the trail.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted only in designated areas such as fireplaces and camp stoves; all fires must be extinguished when leaving.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency service contact provided is the Ranger Station: Phone number 7244553744.

Trash & RecyclingCampers are required to follow 'Pack-In, Pack-Out' practices, meaning all trash must be taken home. No recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesIncludes streams for water collection, with reviews suggesting filtering due to unpalatable taste.

Weather at Laurel Ridge State Park

Reviews

4.6

11 reviews

Top-Rated

Laurel Ridge State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews emphasize the park's natural beauty, the well-maintained trails, and the convenience of overnight shelters. Some concerns are raised about the quality of water and the smell of toilets.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

- Shelters are well-equipped with fire rings and firewood. - Trails are well-marked and maintained. - The park offers a quiet and scenic environment, ideal for nature lovers.

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

- Vault toilets have a bad smell. - Potable water quality at pavilions is poor; stream water is recommended with filtration. - Primitive camping regulations can be confusing, as some users reported...

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring tarps to block wind in the shelters. - Notify someone about your hiking plans, especially for multi-day trips, for safety. - Filter water from streams instead of relying on provided potable...

Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring: Vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery make the park particularly scenic. Summer: Trails are less crowded, ideal for solitude seekers. Fall: Mid-October offers stunning fall foliage. Winter:...

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The trail is well marked and the upkeep is great.' - 'Make sure to bring some tarps to close the two open sides and block the wind.' - 'The water doesn't taste good so I suggest to gather water at...

Based on 11 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Northern terminus of the trail (mile marker 70) is described as a challenging but rewarding hike. - Shelters are consistently described as quiet and well-equipped.

Based on 11 reviews