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State Parks, Forests

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State parks and forests in West Virginia offer visitors a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly recreation in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. From the stunning waterfalls and rugged canyons of Blackwater Falls State Park to the tranquil trails and scenic overlooks of Coopers Rock State Forest, these protected areas showcase the best of the Mountain State’s diverse landscapes. West Virginia’s state parks and forests provide opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching, making them ideal destinations for weekend getaways and memorable vacations. With well-maintained facilities, charming cabins, and a range of year-round activities, West Virginia’s state parks and forests invite everyone to explore, relax, and connect with nature. For more information on West Virginia state parks and forests, visit our directory.

A vehicle enters Coopers Rock State Forest in northern West Virginia. The West Virginia State Parks Foundation hopes to expand private fundraising for projects at state parks, forests and rail trails across the state.
State Parks, Forests

Foundation seeks to expand private funding for West Virginia State Parks projects

by David Sibray

HURRICANE, W.Va. — Members of the West Virginia State Parks Foundation hope to raise millions of dollars in private donations and grants for projects across the state park system, with its executive director saying some estimates put maintenance, equipment, and project needs at about $260 million. The nonprofit organization will use a new $25,000 grant … Read more

adventure tourism have become increasingly important drivers of the state's visitor economy. (Photo: David Sibray)
State Parks, Forests

Nearly $20 million in upgrades coming to West Virginia state parks

by David Sibray

BEAVER, W.Va. — Visitors to West Virginia state parks will find new campsites, expanded snowmaking, renovated facilities and extensive infrastructure improvements as the state invests nearly $20 million in parks and forests across the Mountain State. Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $19.725 million in projects Wednesday at Kanawha State Forest near Charleston. The new campground will … Read more

A steam-powered excursion train travels through the mountains at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. A new 100-site campground has opened at the popular railroad and outdoor recreation destination.
State Parks, Forests

New 100-site campground opens at popular West Virginia mountain destination

by David Sibray

CASS, W.Va. — A new 100-site campground has opened at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, adding a major new place to stay near the Greenbrier River and one of West Virginia’s best-known recreational trails. Slabtown Campground offers tent and RV sites, heated bathhouses, laundry facilities, and a camp store. Six campsites have electric, water, and sewer … Read more

A drone view captures Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park in the Ohio River near Parkersburg, where the reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion stands amid mature trees. Once the estate of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett, the island became the setting for Aaron Burr's mysterious western expedition and today is one of West Virginia's most distinctive historic destinations.
State Parks, Forests

After killing Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr ventured to this legendary island in W.Va.

by David Sibray

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — The duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton remains a defining episode in early American history. Even those with only a passing knowledge of the nation’s founding may remember how the sitting vice president fatally shot Hamilton in 1804, ending the life of one of America’s foremost statesmen and bringing Burr’s own … Read more