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.
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
Could West Virginia residents lose control of their state parks? Some state officials are warning voters about what could be a threat to the park system, which has been nationally recognized for its beauty and accessibility. According to an article published in the Wyoming County Report and shared with permission here, every few years, the … Read more
The West Virginia Legislature this week is considering the privatization of the state’s park system. Mark Wylie, retired parks district administrator and long-time superintendent at Babcock and Watoga state parks is warning West Virginians that the bills have dire implications. “The recent legislative introduction of Senate Bill 485 and its companion, House Bill 4408, means … Read more
West Virginia State Parks announced a partnership with the Walking Miracles Family Foundation that provides lodging discounts to families in need of travel assistance due to childhood and young adult cancer treatment. The discount, which provides a 50 percent savings on state park lodge rooms and cabins, is available to families in the Walking Miracles … Read more
In the highest mountain valley in the eastern U.S., the Canaan Valley, Canaan Valley Resort will celebrate the history of the Mountain State and offer a variety of adventures and outdoor activities June 18-20 during West Virginia Days Weekend. Sam England, general manager for the resort at Canaan Valley State Park, said the resort is … Read more
The West Virginia State Parks system will host an on-site and virtual job fair at Pipestem Resort State Park on May 11 to recruit people for positions. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the job fair is being hosted in partnership with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Workforce West Virginia, and the Region … Read more
State-managed parks and forests in West Virginia have welcomed a record-breaking number of in-state guests so far this year, thanks to a promotional discount available through August, Governor Jim Justice announced today. The announcement comes as a result of a park promotion prompted by the coronavirus-19 outbreak and includes a 30-percent discount on all state … Read more
