Friday, August 1, 2025
67 F
Beckley
More

    Governor closes park, forest campgrounds in state system

    West Virginia state park and forest campgrounds, as well as the scenic overlooks at Coopers Rock and Blackwater Falls, have been closed, according to Governor Jim Justice.

    Advertisement

    The closure of scenic overlooks at Coopers Rock and Blackwater Falls is due to these areas being heavily trafficked and among the first stops across the state parks system to draw crowds.

    West Virginia's state parks and forests otherwise remain open for recreational use, such as hiking, but visitors are reminded to avoid crowded areas and leave no trace following their outdoor adventures.

    "State park and forest facilities may be closed, but trails remain open and we want to remind folks that they need to properly dispose of waste by packing it in and pack it out," said West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director Stephen McDaniel. "West Virginia's state parks and forests provide a much-needed escape at this time, and picking up after yourself helps ensure they stay clean for everyone to enjoy."

    Advertisement

    Due to an influx of visitors over the weekend, West Virginia state parks officials also want to remind guests that most facilities, including restrooms, remain closed at the recommendation of state health officials. As such, arrangements should be made to remove all trash, waste and personal belongings before leaving a park or forest.

    Park guests are encouraged to continue practicing public distancing by avoiding crowded trails and public spaces. To stay up to date on state park facility closures and service changes, visit .

    West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than 7 million people each year. Made up of 35 parks, 9 forests and two rail-trails, the West Virginia State Parks system provides endless opportunities for family fun and adventure.

    West Virginia State Parks is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.

    Advertisement
    Advertisement
    Advertisement
    Advertisement

    Sign up to receive a FREE copy of West Virginia Explorer Magazine in your email weekly. Sign me up!
    David Sibray
    David Sibray
    Historian, real estate agent, and proponent of inventive economic development in West Virginia, David Sibray is the founder and publisher of West Virginia Explorer Magazine. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390.

    LEAVE A REPLY

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

    Hot this week

    August in West Virginia: When mountain customs come home

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — August in West Virginia is a...

    Wild and Wonderful: A journey through West Virginia’s most beautiful places

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — There's a reason West Virginia is...

    Historic West Virginia heat waves and how the state can recover its coolness

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — While known for its forests and...

    West Virginia to host first-ever Spartan Trifecta World Championship in the U.S.

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia will make history in...

    Nature’s classroom in the Kanawha Valley: A vibrant trail system blossoms in Buffalo

    BUFFALO, W.Va. — Among the fields and wetlands of...

    Topics

    August in West Virginia: When mountain customs come home

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — August in West Virginia is a...

    West Virginia to host first-ever Spartan Trifecta World Championship in the U.S.

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia will make history in...

    The five worst floods in West Virginia history: A Chronicle of Disaster

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Shaped by rugged mountains and winding...

    Splash into Fun: The Six Best Waterparks in West Virginia (2025 Guide)

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s natural beauty is world-famous,...

    Related Articles

    Popular Categories