I grow fields of pumpkins and squash, and I do not plant in hills. I plant in rows spaced 1 foot apart, with the seeds spaced 4-6 inches apart. I fertilize very heavily and let mother nature thin them out, so that the strongest survive.

When trialing new (new for me) cultivars of squash and pumpkins, I use a 8x8 ft square raised bed 8 inches high, and plant them same as in the field: in rows 1 foot apart, with seeds 4-6 inches apart.

When I first started growing squash and pumpkins decades ago, I planted them in hills just like everyone and every book said. It didn't work for me, but close-spaced rows did and still does. Because I fertilize heavily and water every day that it doesn't rain, the plants thrive, and when they get overcrowded, they will thin themselves out.

Thanks for the info, I won't worry so much about crowding now.