Laurel Ridge State Park
00 review1117 JIM MOUNTAIN ROAD, ROCKWOOD, Pennsylvania, 15557, United States
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
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park's facilities and trails are not ADA-compliant, limiting accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews advise bringing tarps to block wind at shelters and filtering water from streams due to poor water taste.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest shelter areas along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail as great options.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Flush toilets
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.
Hiking
The 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.Biking
Biking is allowed in designated areas but not on hiking trails.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as great horned owls can be observed, especially during quieter hours like at night.Winter Activities
The park offers cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, making it a winter-friendly destination.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated areas such as fireplaces and camp stoves; all fires must be extinguished when leaving.
- Quiet hours are between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential 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.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency service contact provided is the Ranger Station: Phone number 7244553744.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to follow 'Pack-In, Pack-Out' practices, meaning all trash must be taken home. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes streams for water collection, with reviews suggesting filtering due to unpalatable taste.
Common complaintsUser review complaints include poor water taste, unpleasant restroom odors, and issues with primitive camping ambiguities.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Laurel Ridge State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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.
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...
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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...
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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:...
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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...
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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.
Accessibility Features
The park and its trails are not ADA-compliant, which limits options for users with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but only in designated areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025