In the heart of the Laurel Highlands at an altitude of 2,600 feet, Kooser State Park attracts visitors all year to its 250 acres of forest and the beautiful trout stream that flows the full length of the park.
The park’s original design character was stamped by the Civilian Conservation Corps projects of the 1930s that established the existing lake and most of its use areas, its architecture, and site details.
The park’s basic appeal lies in its intimate areas which are best suited for family outings and small groups. Picnicking, fishing, hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, and family cabins are popular.
Hiking at Kooser State Park
1.5 miles of trails
Kincora Trail
1.0 mile, more difficult hiking
Named after a former church camp located here, this rugged trail provides challenging terrain and solitude for the day hiker.
Tree Army Trail
0.5 mile, easiest hiking
This trail meanders along Kooser Run. During the summer, there is great access for stream fishing and you can enjoy the scenic beauty in the winter while cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
The trail is named after the Civilian Conservation Corps who were also known as Roosevelt’s Tree Army.
Picnicking at Kooser State Park
Many picnic tables are available for year-round picnics.
Mighty Oak Picnic Pavilion can be reserved up to 11 months in advance for a fee. Unreserved picnic pavilions are free on a first-come, first-served basis.
There is also a small stone pavilion centered in the picnic area that is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Stay the Night at Kooser State Park
Camping
Flush toilets, warm showers, some electric hook-ups
The campground has 35 sites, which are open from mid-April through mid-December.
Most sites give visitors the ability to pull through with their camping equipment.
There are 28 sites with electric hookups and seven non-electric sites.
Five sites have full service hook up, which includes sewer, water, and electricity.
This entire campground is open to pets. Please follow all pet camping rules.
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. ADA-accessible sites and a sanitary dump station are available.
Fishing at Kooser State Park
The four-acre Kooser Lake and Kooser Run are approved trout waters. Kooser Run is stocked with trout and is classified as a high-quality trout stream.
Kooser Lake provides excellent fishing for:
Trout
Bass
Bluegill
Night and ice fishing are prohibited on Kooser Lake.
Hunting at Kooser State Park
Due to Kooser State Park’s small size, hunting is prohibited in the park.
Hunters frequently camp in the park and walk to the Forbes State Forest lands that are adjacent to the park.
Common game species are:
Deer
Turkey
Black bear
Cross-Country Skiing at Kooser State Park
The park’s elevation and heavy snowfall creates prime conditions for cross-country skiing. Park staff set track on 1.5 miles of ski trail, which is marked with blue diamonds. The trail is classified as “easiest” and is popular with beginners to experienced skiers.
A 20-mile cross-country ski touring concession is adjacent to the PA 653 parking area of nearby Laurel Ridge State Park. A trail fee is required. For current snow conditions on this trail, call 724-455-7303
