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.
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Restaurants at state parks across West Virginia will begin sourcing local ingredients and refreshing their menus with native flair, thanks to the enlistment of a groundbreaking chef known for his exploration of native cuisine. Known widely as the “Vagabond Chef” and frequently seen on a motorcycle as he travels the state … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — On the north shore of Summersville Lake, West Virginia will soon open its 36th state park. Boaters explore Pirate’s Cove at Summersville Lake State Park. (Photo courtesy W.Va. Dept. of Commerce)[/caption] A bill that will officially designate the land as a state park was sent to the West Virginia Legislature on August … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia and the Buckskin Council of the Boy Scouts of America have signed a memorandum that will allow scouts to use state parks for activities while encouraging them to contribute to park conservation and preservation through service projects. Under the terms of the agreement, scouts from the Buckskin Council in West … Read more
BRUCETON MILLS, W.Va. — West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice has announced several new construction projects at one of the state’s most visited forests—Coopers Rock State Forest. The construction projects begin as system-wide state park visitation continues to soar, with first-quarter revenues outpacing pre-pandemic levels by more than 200 percent, Justice said. The over $10 million … Read more
TWIN FALLS STATE PARK, W.Va. — Superintendents at 12 West Virginia state parks completed training in February to become certified special natural resources police officers. The special paramilitary training, led by the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources Police, was completed at Twin Falls Resort State Park. It included classroom time and physical, defensive tactics, and … Read more
CAIRO, W.Va. — With thorns the size of knives, this bizarre cousin of the black locust tree that’s common throughout West Virginia might have arrived in what’s now the Mountain State by prehistoric mastodon. Master naturalist Doug Wood has observed the species— known as the honey locust or thorny locust—in northern West Virginia along the … Read more
NEW CUMBERLAND, W.Va. — Nearly 8,000 feet of the most northern trout stream in West Virginia have been restored at Tomlinson Run State Park, according to Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. A public-private partnership between the division and Water and Land Solutions restored nearly 8,000 feet of stream, improved forest … Read more
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia State Parks farm-to-table dinner series is back this year and is the best way to enjoy locally sourced food, fresh local produce, and locally crafted beverages at select West Virginia State Parks. Each dinner is a unique dining experience, and seating is limited. “This dinner series is a … Read more
DAVIS, W.Va. — Blackwater Falls may be one of the best-known natural wonders in West Virginia, but the waterfall and surrounding park are best enjoyed in concert with the surrounding travel region, says an official at Blackwater Falls State Park. Eric Risinger, assistant superintendent at the state park, says tourists checking the waterfall off their … Read more
Adventure lakes at Pipestem Resort and Tygart Lake state parks are set to open on May 20, and officials are encouraging travelers to book accommodations and order tickets online in advance. Featuring waterslides, obstacles, inflatables, and beach areas, the lakes are designed as water parks and beach trips all in one, according to state parks … Read more
