Laurel Hill State Park
Quick Facts
Why Somerset & the Laurel Highlands
Laurel Hill State Park spans 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain in Somerset County, at the heart of the Laurel Highlands, with a 63-acre lake as its centerpiece and thousands of surrounding acres of state park and forest land. The Jones Mill Run Dam, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, creates a genuinely photogenic cascade waterfall, accessible via the easy, stroller-friendly Pumphouse Trail.
This is a genuinely well-maintained state park campground, uncrowded compared to nearby Ohiopyle, with a peaceful lake for canoeing and real waterfall access most budget campgrounds don’t offer.
What Makes It Special
- Location: Somerset, in the heart of the Laurel Highlands
- Setting: 4,062 acres, uncrowded compared to nearby Ohiopyle
- Site type: State park campground
- Amenities: Waterfall along the Tram Road trail, lake with canoe rentals, pollinator garden, well-maintained trails
- Recreation: Hiking, water activities, and waterfall viewing
Pro Tips for Booking
Hike the Pumphouse Trail to Jones Mill Run Dam. The 1935 CCC-built dam creates one of the most photographed waterfall spots in Somerset County.
Download the park map before you arrive. Cell service is unpredictable in and around many Pennsylvania state parks.
Visit in October. Laurel Hill is a genuine standout for fall foliage across the Laurel Highlands.
What to Do Around Here
- Jones Mill Run Dam, a CCC-built cascade waterfall
- Canoeing on the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake
- The Hemlock Trail Natural Area
- Fall foliage throughout the Laurel Highlands
- Wildlife and plant observation along the trail system
