Thursday, October 9, 2025
44.7 F
Beckley
More

    Lost River, Cass Scenic Railroad state parks to see major expansions

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Lost River State Park and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will enjoy nearly $13 million in expansions to be completed in 2025.

    Advertisement

    According to Gov. Jim Justice, the projects are part of West Virginia's ongoing investments to enhance outdoor recreation and tourism.

    The governor announced that Cass is adding its first campground featuring 100 campsites, modern amenities, and historic preservation, and Lost River is adding 35 modern campsites, enhancing its existing natural retreat.

    The campground projects are part of an ongoing investment in the West Virginia State Parks system. During the Justice Administration, more than $250 million in improvement projects were completed.

    Advertisement

    “I’m incredibly proud of the hard work going into the campground upgrades at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and Lost River State Park,” Justice said.

    “Each day, the world continues to discover the world-class recreational opportunities in West Virginia. By improving our campgrounds and preserving the rich history of our parks, we’re inviting more visitors to see why our state parks are the best in the country.”


    Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

    Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will soon boast its first campground on the water. It features 100 campsites with water and 50-amp electrical service, two bathhouses, a check-in station, an RV dump station, and paved roads and utilities.

    With a total investment of $8,034,810, construction began in August 2024 and is expected to be completed by July 2025.

    Advertisement
    Advertisement
    Advertisement
    Advertisement

    The campground will be located on the historic site of the Deer Creek Extract Plant, which played a pivotal role in the production of hemlock and spruce bark extracts during World War I.

    Although many of the original structures have deteriorated, remnants of the foundations will be preserved and displayed with interpretive signs to honor Cass' rich history. Visitors to the new campground will enjoy modern amenities and gain insight into the area's storied past.


    Lost River State Park

    Lost River State Park will also see significant upgrades with the addition of 35 modern campsites, each featuring water and 50-amp electrical service. The new facilities will include one bathhouse, a check-in station, an RV dump station, and paved roads and utilities.

    This project, which has a total investment of $4,863,423, began construction in August 2024 and is slated for completion by June 2025.

    Advertisement

    Nestled in the wooded mountains of Hardy County, Lost River State Park offers a peaceful escape with 26 cabins, a swimming pool, and nearly 4,000 acres of forested beauty. The new campground will enhance the experience for visitors seeking to connect with nature in a serene and secluded environment.

    To plan your visit to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park or Lost River State Park, please visit .


    Sign up to receive a FREE copy of West Virginia Explorer Magazine in your email weekly. Sign me up!
    Clyde Craig
    Clyde Craighttp://wvexplorer.com
    Clyde Craig is a writer for West Virginia Explorer. Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, he traveled with his family across the globe with the U.S. Army before returning to the Mountain State in 2011.

    LEAVE A REPLY

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

    Hot this week

    How an obscure, mysterious writer in West Virginia invented UFO lore as we know it

    RIFFLE, W.Va.— The blockbuster Men in Black film franchise...

    Historic stone walls in Morgantown, West Virginia, added to the national register

    MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The National Park Service has accepted...

    Swing into autumn with West Virginia’s three new Almost Heaven swings

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the W.Va. Department of...

    Mysterious Wetzel County worm invasion wreaked havoc in West Virginia in 1918

    LITTLETON, W.Va. — In the summer of 1918, a...

    Exclusive dinner series at Pipestem Resort State Park showcases new menu

    PIPESTEM, W.Va. — Tickets are now available for a...

    Topics

    How an obscure, mysterious writer in West Virginia invented UFO lore as we know it

    RIFFLE, W.Va.— The blockbuster Men in Black film franchise...

    Historic stone walls in Morgantown, West Virginia, added to the national register

    MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The National Park Service has accepted...

    Swing into autumn with West Virginia’s three new Almost Heaven swings

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the W.Va. Department of...

    Risk of West Virginia wildfires increases in 2025 amid dry autumn conditions

    MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The crackle of autumn leaves underfoot...

    Investigator: West Virginia ground-zero for UFO research, ET encounters

    GREEN BANK, W.Va. — A renowned paranormal investigator says...

    Related Articles

    Popular Categories