Kooser State Park
00 review943 GLADES PIKE, SOMERSET, Pennsylvania, 15501, United States
Kooser State Park
$1.00 - $5.00 / 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
Firewood bundles are sold at $5 and fire starters for $1 at the honor box at the park office.
About this campground
Nestled in Pennsylvania's scenic highlands, Kooser State Park offers an intimate mountain retreat where families and small groups can escape the everyday hustle. This charming 250-acre sanctuary invites you to cast a line in peaceful waters, explore winding forest trails, or settle into a cozy cabin for the perfect weekend getaway. Here, the pace slows down and nature takes center stage.
Kooser State Park offers a variety of camping options including tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Group camping is not specifically mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s, when the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this recreational gem from the wilderness. These dedicated workers not only created the park's serene lake but also left their mark through timeless architectural designs that still welcome visitors today. Every stone wall and rustic structure tells the story of American craftsmanship and the enduring legacy of conservation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at Kooser, where comfortable summers give way to crisp autumn days and pristine winter landscapes. The park's signature cold-climate atmosphere brings moderate snowfall that transforms the forest into a winter wonderland, while spring arrives with wildflowers and rushing streams. Each season paints the park in new colors, offering year-round adventures for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet above sea level, Kooser State Park offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning in summer and reliable snow for winter activities. This elevated position creates a unique microclimate where temperatures run cooler than the valleys below, making it an ideal refuge during hot summer months and a snowy playground when winter arrives.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom its lofty perch at 2,600 feet, Kooser State Park showcases the raw beauty of Pennsylvania's mountain forests. A pristine trout stream meanders through the entire length of the park, creating a ribbon of life that attracts anglers and wildlife alike. Towering trees form a verdant canopy overhead, while the forest floor reveals seasonal treasures from spring wildflowers to autumn's golden carpet of leaves.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of the Laurel Highlands, where Kooser State Park sits gracefully on the eastern foothills of Laurel Mountain Summit. This 250-acre forest preserve exemplifies the region's rugged beauty, with ancient geological formations creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The park's position in this renowned recreational corridor connects visitors to a larger network of trails, scenic vistas, and natural wonders that define southwestern Pennsylvania's mountain country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not extensively detailed, but cabins and bathrooms are mentioned as close and convenient in some reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a mix of spacious and standard-sized sites. Specific mentions include 'sites are spaced out' and 'large pull-in sites, electric only.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites described as secluded and others as open. For example, 'The outermost circle has quite a bit of privacy,' but 'most sites are not very private.'
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid walk-in tent site #24 due to poor drainage. Sites along the creek offer relaxation.
Best CampsitesSite 10 offers significant privacy next to a creek under large pine trees. Tent sites #33, #23, #36, #37 are considered nice.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not specified
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 35 sites and 9 rustic cabins.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on events dcnr pa and pa parks and forests platforms.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Kooser State Park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and relaxing in a peaceful natural setting. The park is centered around the lake and stream, which are noted for their high-quality trout.
Hiking
The park features two small hiking trails, one described as strenuous, and another as a one-mile loop starting near the camper area and ending by the lake. One user mentioned, 'Nice trail to walk and beautiful stream.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Kooser Lake and Kooser Run, both of which are stocked with trout. One review noted, 'The lake has beautiful rainbow trout, if you're lucky enough to catch them.'Boating
Though not explicitly stated in the park guide, there appears to be a concrete ramp that could serve as a non-motorized boat launch.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is implicitly part of the peaceful natural setting, but specific details about species are not provided.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing trails are adjacent to the cabins and provide easy access. A user mentioned, 'Nice flat trail for cross-country skiing.'Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like kayaking or canoeing may be possible, but specific details are limited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed, with firewood bundles sold at the park office.
- Quiet hours are 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise from nearby highway can disrupt tranquility. Some walk-in tent sites may have poor drainage.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Somerset emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are nearby.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no detailed information on trash and recycling facilities, but proper waste disposal is required per park rules.
Proximity to water featuresFeatures a trout-stocked stream and a small lake, visually delightful but not suitable for swimming.
Common complaintsNoise from a nearby highway detracts from the park's otherwise quiet atmosphere. Some campsites lack canopy shade.
HostHosts are reported as helpful. In one instance, a host helped change a camper's flat tire.
Campground Map
943 GLADES PIKE, SOMERSET, Pennsylvania, 15501, United States
Driving directionsKooser State Park is on PA 31 midway between the Donegal and Somerset turnpike exits, at the eastern foothills of Laurel Mountain Summit. Kooser State Park is a one-hour drive from Johnstown or Pittsburgh.
Accessible via PA 31, midway between Donegal and Somerset turnpike exits. Road is paved and connects to major highways.Nearby places
Johnstown (1 hour drive), Pittsburgh (1 hour drive)
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Kooser State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Kooser State Park receives mostly positive reviews for its serene and secluded environment, clean cabins, and well-maintained facilities. However, noise from the nearby highway is a common complaint.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained cabins. Peaceful environment. Excellent fishing opportunities. Family-friendly atmosphere. 'Cabins were immaculate,' and 'The park is peaceful and secluded.'
Common Concerns
Highway noise is frequently mentioned as disruptive. Limited privacy at certain campsites. 'Noise from the nearby highway constantly keeps invading one's ears.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate highway noise. Reserve cabins or campsites on the outer circle for better privacy. Pack firewood or purchase on-site. 'If you prepare in advance, the lack of a cabin...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is described as peaceful in winter with opportunities for cross-country skiing. Summer visits highlight fishing and picnicking but also note higher noise levels.
Camper Quotes
'Cabins were immaculate.' 'Peaceful and secluded, at least in mid-March.' 'Decent Verizon cell phone coverage throughout the whole park.' 'Gorgeous pine wooded park with a nice winding stream through...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 24 is noted for poor drainage. Tent sites #33, #23, #36, #37 are deemed nice, while site #24 is described as muddy. RV sites on the outer circle are praised for privacy.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility notes are sparse but imply that cabins and facilities are convenient.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in designated areas. A user mentioned bringing their pug to a pet-friendly cabin.
Last updated August 10, 2025