Calhoun County, in central West Virginia, was created in 1853 from western Gilmer County and was named for statesman and U.S. vice-president John C. Calhoun. Its county seat is at Grantsville. As of the 2010 census, the county population was 7,627.
Calhoun is renowned as the home of the West Virginia Wood Festival and the West Virginia Molasses Festival. The Little Kanawha River and its west fork drain westward through the northern county. Predominantly rural and agricultural, it supports relatively little industry.
Stargazing and Night Sky Watching
Calhoun County is one of the chief destinations for stargazing and night sky watching in West Virginia. Though no more than 30 miles from urban areas at Charleston and Parkersburg to the northwest and southwest, the county enjoys very little light pollution. As a happy consequence, stargazers and other lovers of the outdoors and venturing in increasing numbers to the county. The county park has become a particularly well-known destination for night sky watching.
Cities & Towns in Calhoun County
Annamoriah, West Virginia
Arnoldsburg, West Virginia
Big Springs, West Virginia
Chloe, West Virginia
Five Forks, West Virginia
Grantsville, West Virginia
Millstone, West Virginia
Mount Zion, West Virginia
Nicut, West Virginia
Orma, West Virginia
Sand Ridge, West Virginia
Stumptown, West Virginia
Parks & Public Recreation Facilities
Calhoun County Park
Stumptown Wildlife Management Area
Calhoun County Historic Landmarks
Alberts Chapel (Sand Ridge, WV)
Regional Information for Calhoun County, West Virginia
Further information on lodging, dining, and recreation in Calhoun County may be found in our guide to travel in the Heartland Region, in central West Virginia, in which the county is located.
