
A marsh at Hillman State Park. Photo: Clint, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
For those who like to escape to nature, Hillman State Park is a terrific place to visit.
Renowned for its stunning scenery and abundant recreational opportunities, the park is a 3,600 acre playground of lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes. Making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the Keystone State.
Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, radio-flying, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic, Hillman State Park has something for everyone.
Within this Pennsylvania state park there are several miles of trails where visitors can discover stunning vistas, serene streams, and an abundance of wildlife. In addition, its large lake provides ample opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Unfortunately there is no camping on site at Hillman State Park, but don’t let that stop you from coming here. At just 30 minutes from Pittsburgh, there are a several campgrounds for RVs and trailers you can stay at nearby.
Activities
Visitors to Hillman State Park can enjoy a varied range of outdoor leisure pursuits during their time there.
Outlined below is a brief summary of some of the most popular activities you can take part in.
Fishing at Hillman State Park
The park is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts on account of its fabulous 45-acre lake, which provides a tranquil and scenic environment for anglers to cast a line.
The lake is stocked with several fish species including bass, trout, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing is allowed all year round.
You can choose to catch them from the shore or on the ADA accessible fishing pier, but you will need a current and valid Pennsylvania fishing license in order to do so.
Trails at Hillman State Park
Throughout the park there are over 34 miles of trails that are just waiting to be explored. You can do this via hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding, all of which will take you through its beautiful forested hills.
These trails differ in terms of length and level of difficulty, with some being relatively flat and others involving steep inclines. However, they all showcase incredible landscapes that many visitors don’t make the effort to see.
One of the most popular trails is the two-mile Hillman Trail, which winds through the forest and along the park’s lake, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding hills.
For those who want a longer journey the five-mile Woodland Trail, leads through a diverse range of landscapes including forests, fields, and wetlands.
All of the trails are well-marked to ensure hikers and riders can easily navigate through the park’s various paths.
While doing so, you should be able to spot several species of wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bear, and coyotes.
Radio Controlled Flying at Hillman State Park
Hillman State Park is a popular destination for those who enjoy radio-controlled (RC) flying.
Within the park, there is a designated flying field for RC planes and helicopters near the main office. It is open year-round and free for use, with no prior registration required.
With ample space available to them, visitors can bring their own planes or rent them from local RC clubs.
The park also hosts several RC flying events throughout the year, including competitions and group fly-ins, providing opportunities for RC enthusiasts to come together and share their passion for flying.
Birding at Hillman State Park
With more than 200 species residing within it, birding is a very popular activity at Hillman State Park.
Its diverse habitats include forests, fields, and wetlands, which create an ideal location for birdwatching.
Depending on the time of year you visit you should be able to see the likes of bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons and belted kingfishers. Some of the best places to spot them include on the trails and, in particular, the observation platforms, where birders can get an up-close look at these beautiful creatures.
Hunting at Hillman State Park
Hunting is a popular activity at Hillman State Park, with over 3,600 acres of land set aside for it.
The park also offers a range of hunting options, including archery, muzzleloader, and shotgun within specially designated hunting areas. Game animals like deer, turkey, squirrel and rabbit are the typical catch.
The hunting season usually starts in early October and runs through late January. Hunters are required to obtain the appropriate hunting license and follow all state regulations and park rules.
Pets
Pets are welcome to join their owners at Hillman State Park, but visitors need to be mindful that pets must be leashed and under control at all times. Additionally, they should not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes.
While dogs are allowed on the trails, they are not permitted in the beach area. Pet owners are also encouraged to clean up after their pets to help maintain the cleanliness of the park.
Camping
Unfortunately, Hillman State Park does not have its own campground. However, there are several campgrounds located within a short drive of it.
One of the closest is the Laurel Hill State Park campground, which is just a 15-minute drive away. This campground has over 250 campsites, including sites for tents, trailers, and RVs. There are also cabins available for rent.
Another option is the Kooser State Park campground, about 25 minutes from Hillman State Park. The campground here has over 50 campsites, as well as cabins and yurts.
Amenities at both these campgrounds include shower facilities, picnic tables, and fire rings. Regardless of which one you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in the beautiful Pennsylvania wilderness.
Park Location
Hillman State Park
Burgettstown,
PA 15021
Phone: 724.899.2200
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Hillman State Park:
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