Looking for free things to do in West Virginia this summer? From waterfalls and rail trails to scenic overlooks and historic towns, these family-friendly adventures cost nothing and showcase the best of the Mountain State.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Summer is the season when West Virginia truly shines. Long days, warm temperatures, and lush mountain landscapes create endless opportunities for families to explore the Mountain State. Better yet, many of its most memorable attractions cost nothing at all.
From waterfalls and scenic rail trails to mountain overlooks and historic destinations, families can enjoy a full day of adventure here without opening their wallets. Here are ten free activities that showcase some of the best experiences West Virginia has to offer this summer.
1. Explore Sandstone Falls Natural Area
One of the most impressive waterfalls in the eastern United States is also among the most accessible. Located within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Sandstone Falls spans nearly 1,500 feet across the New River near historic Hinton.
A short boardwalk leads visitors through islands and channels to observation platforms overlooking the falls. Children enjoy watching the rushing water tumble over the rocks, while adults appreciate the scenic beauty of the broad river valley. The area is also excellent for birdwatching and photography.
Families can combine a visit to Sandstone Falls with a drive through nearby Hinton, a historic railroad town known for its riverside setting and preserved downtown architecture. Nearby Brooks Falls and the Big Branch Trail offer additional fun along the way.
2. Visit Canyon Rim Overlook at New River Gorge
No family trip to southern West Virginia is complete without seeing the New River Gorge Bridge. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center, perched at the rim of the New River Gorge, offers one of the state’s most iconic views.
An upper overlook near the visitor center is accessible via a paved walkway. A lower overlook, reached via a 178-step boardwalk, offers a classic, unobstructed view of the bridge. Interpretive exhibits explain the bridge’s history, the river, and the communities that once thrived along its banks.
The short walk makes this an ideal destination for families with young children or grandparents who may not want to tackle longer hiking trails. There are plenty of restaurants in nearby Fayetteville. The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though it may be closed on holidays. Check visitor center hours.
3. Explore the boardwalk at Cranberry Glades
Within the Monongahela National Forest, the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is among the most unusual natural areas in Appalachia. The preserve contains a bog ecosystem more commonly found in northern Canada than in West Virginia.
A half-mile boardwalk lets visitors explore the wetlands without disturbing the fragile environment. Along the way, families can spot rare plants, wildflowers, dragonflies, and birds while learning about one of the state’s most remarkable habitats.
At nearly 3,400 feet, the cool mountain temperatures make this a particularly pleasant destination during the hottest days of summer. The Falls of Hills Creek and the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center are nearby. Check nature center hours.
4. Discover the Falls of Hills Creek
On the Highland Scenic Highway near Cranberry Glades, the Falls of Hills Creek features three waterfalls connected by a well-maintained trail and boardwalk system, with stairs descending to the lowest falls and then returning.
The largest waterfall drops more than 60 feet into a rocky gorge, creating one of the most dramatic waterfall scenes in West Virginia. The hike is short enough for most families yet rewarding enough to feel like a genuine adventure.
The surrounding forest stays cool and shaded throughout the summer, making it a favorite destination for visitors seeking relief from the heat. Cranberry Glades and the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center are nearby. Check the nature center’s hours.
5. Walk or bike the Greenbrier River Trail
Wandering 78 miles along the Greenbrier River from historic Lewisburg to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, the Greenbrier River Trail is one of the state’s premier outdoor recreation destinations.
Built on a former railroad grade, the trail explores remote valleys, historic communities, and dense forests. Families don’t need to tackle the entire trail. Even a short walk near Marlinton, Seebert, or Cass provides beautiful river views and opportunities to spot wildlife. The flat terrain makes the trail suitable for children, strollers, and casual bicyclists.
The Greenbrier River Trail isn’t the only scenic trail that explores beautiful mountain scenery. Other options include the North Bend Rail Trail between Parkersburg and Clarksburg and the Elk River Trail, which follows the Elk River near the state capital at Charleston.
6. Spend a day at North Bend State Park
Although overnight accommodations require payment, day use of North Bend State Park is free. Located 30 minutes east of Parkersburg and 40 minutes west of Clarksburg, the park offers scenic overlooks, hiking trails, picnic areas, and access to the North Bend Rail Trail.
Children invariably enjoy walking through the historic railroad tunnels on the rail trail, from which the rails were long since removed. Tunnel No. 13 is on the rail trail only a quarter mile from the park playground. A swimming pool, campground, and bike rentals are also located near the playground, though a fee applies.
The park’s lake area offers excellent opportunities for flatwater kayaking and waterfowl watching. Its many trails lead to rock, boulders, and towering hardwood trees. During summer, families often spend several hours exploring its recreational facilities without spending a dime. The park’s quiet atmosphere makes it one of the state’s hidden gems.
7. Watch the sunrise at Grandview
True to its name, Grandview offers some of the most spectacular vistas in West Virginia. Located within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Beckley, its overlooks offer panoramic views of the New River as it winds through steep mountain ridges.
Summer mornings are particularly beautiful as the rising sun casts long shadows across the gorge. Nearby walking trails offer additional viewpoints and opportunities to experience the area’s rich natural beauty.
8. Visit Historic Harpers Ferry
At the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, Harpers Ferry combines natural beauty with some of the nation’s most significant history. Preserved in the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the river town affords visitors a rare walk through a preserved landscape.
While some museum exhibits require admission, families can explore parts of the historic district for free, walk the streets where abolitionist John Brown made history, and enjoy scenic views from public areas such as Jefferson’s Rock.
For a fee, the park service maintains a nearby parking lot with bus service into the district, but visitors can also park in the Bolivar neighborhood above and walk in.
9. Explore Beartown State Park
A winding boardwalk and stairs lead through a shady maze of house-sized boulders at Beartown State Park, appropriately named, as visitors can likely imagine a town of bears inhabiting the boulders. Children can certainly imagine it, which is part of what makes the park so popular.
Though closed in the winter months, the park is open from dusk till dawn in the summer. The park is also near Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park and Watoga State Park. Together, the three are ideal destinations for summer fun.
10. Attend a free summer festival
West Virginia’s communities celebrate summer with dozens of festivals, fairs, concerts, and heritage events. Many offer free admission and provide opportunities to experience local culture, music, food, and traditions.
Events such as the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair, county heritage festivals, community concerts, and hometown celebrations often include children’s activities, live entertainment, and demonstrations that appeal to visitors of all ages.
Checking local event calendars before a trip can uncover unique experiences that become the highlight of a family vacation. Visit West Virginia Events & Festivals for more event ideas.
Affordable adventures close to home
The best free things to do in West Virginia often showcase the state’s greatest strengths—its mountains, rivers, forests, and historic communities. Whether you’re exploring a national park, walking a rail trail, or watching a sunset from a mountain overlook, these affordable adventures prove that some of the Mountain State’s most rewarding experiences remain completely free.
In a time when entertainment costs continue to rise, the Mountain State offers something increasingly valuable—authentic experiences rooted in nature, history, and community. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week-long summer vacation, these free things to do destinations prove that some of West Virginia’s finest adventures still cost nothing more than the drive to get there.
Other free things to do in West Virginia
Do you know of other free things to do in West Virginia? Help build our guide by letting us know!