Everyone knows Ohiopyle. But three lesser-known Somerset County state parks — Kooser, Laurel Hill, and Laurel Ridge — offer swimming lakes, quiet trails, and one epic backpacking route right in our backyard.
Ohiopyle rightly gets the headlines, but locals know the Laurel Highlands hides a cluster of quieter state parks just up the ridge — perfect for a slower day of swimming, paddling, and easy trails. Three of them sit within a short drive of our Hidden Valley cabins.
Kooser State Park
Small, wooded, and genuinely peaceful, Kooser State Park (yes — our Kooser home takes its name from this stretch of the mountain) is built around a little lake and Kooser Run. It's a lovely spot for a picnic, an easy walk, and a swim on a hot afternoon, without the crowds of the bigger parks.
Laurel Hill State Park
A few minutes away, Laurel Hill State Park is the crown jewel of the group — roughly 4,000 acres around Laurel Hill Lake. There's a sand swimming beach, boat and kayak rentals, a well-loved hemlock trail through old-growth forest, and some of the best family-friendly hiking in Somerset County. It's also a top fall-foliage destination once October arrives.
Laurel Ridge State Park & the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
For serious hikers, Laurel Ridge State Park anchors the southern end of the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which runs the spine of the ridge from Ohiopyle all the way to Johnstown. You don't have to thru-hike it — pick a trailhead, walk a scenic out-and-back, and turn around whenever you like.
Plan around the conditions
Beaches, boat rentals, and trail access shift with the season, so check current details with Pennsylvania DCNR (pa.gov/dcnr) before you go. For events and nearby dining, GoLaurelHighlands.com rounds out the picture.
Your basecamp
The beauty of these parks is how uncrowded and close-to-home they feel — and our cabins put you right in the middle of them. Swim at Laurel Hill by day, then come back to a fire pit and hot tub at night. Browse all four homes and book direct to keep more of your trip budget for s'mores.
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