The Ultimate Guide to West Virginia’s National and State Parks

West Virginia, also known as the “Mountain State,” is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rolling Appalachian mountains, deep river gorges, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls, the state boasts an impressive collection of national and state parks that offer endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys scenic beauty, West Virginia has something for you.

This guide highlights the best national and state parks in West Virginia, providing an overview of what each park offers, the best times to visit, and essential tips for travelers.

National Parks in West Virginia

While West Virginia has only one official national park, it is home to several national forests, national rivers, and historic sites managed by the National Park Service (NPS).

1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

🗺️ Location: Southern West Virginia
📌 Best For: Whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives

West Virginia’s only national park, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, is a premier destination for adventure seekers. Known for the stunning New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, the park features over 70,000 acres of rugged wilderness.

Top Attractions & Activities

Whitewater Rafting: The New River is one of the best whitewater rafting spots in the country, with thrilling Class III–V rapids.
Hiking: Popular trails include the Endless Wall Trail, Long Point Trail, and Grandview Rim Trail, all of which offer spectacular views of the gorge.
Rock Climbing: With over 1,400 established climbing routes, this is a paradise for climbers.
Bridge Walk Tour: Walk across the catwalk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge for a unique perspective.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot bald eagles, black bears, and deer along the trails.

Travel Tips

Visit in October for peak fall foliage.
Plan your visit around Bridge Day (held in October), where base jumpers leap from the New River Gorge Bridge.

West Virginia State Parks

West Virginia has 35 state parks and 9 state forests, each offering unique landscapes, recreational activities, and opportunities to connect with nature. Here are some of the best state parks worth exploring.

2. Blackwater Falls State Park

🗺️ Location: Davis, WV
📌 Best For: Waterfalls, hiking, photography

One of the most iconic destinations in West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park is famous for its cascading 57-foot waterfall, where the tannin-rich waters create a golden-brown hue.

Top Attractions & Activities

Blackwater Falls: Visit the park’s namesake waterfall, accessible via boardwalks and viewing platforms.
Lindy Point Overlook: A short hike leads to this breathtaking view of the Blackwater Canyon.
Elakala Falls: A series of picturesque waterfalls near the lodge.
Winter Activities: Cross-country skiing and sledding on the longest sled run on the East Coast.

Travel Tips

Arrive early in summer to avoid crowds at popular viewpoints.
Fall is the best time to visit for stunning autumn colors.

3. Canaan Valley Resort State Park

🗺️ Location: Davis, WV
📌 Best For: Skiing, hiking, mountain biking

Nestled in the highest valley east of the Mississippi, Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a year-round destination known for its diverse outdoor activities.

Top Attractions & Activities

Skiing & Snowboarding: One of West Virginia’s top ski resorts, with 47 slopes and trails.
Hiking: The Bald Knob Trail leads to panoramic mountain views.
Golfing: An 18-hole championship golf course.
Wildlife Watching: Home to black bears, deer, and over 280 bird species.

Travel Tips

Winter is best for skiing; summer is ideal for hiking and mountain biking.
Book lodging at the resort for easy access to amenities.

4. Coopers Rock State Forest

🗺️ Location: Near Morgantown, WV
📌 Best For: Rock climbing, hiking, scenic overlooks

Named after a fugitive who once lived among its cliffs, Coopers Rock State Forest offers dramatic overlooks of the Cheat River Gorge.

Top Attractions & Activities

Coopers Rock Overlook: A must-visit spot for sunrise or sunset views.
Raven Rock Trail: A rugged hike leading to breathtaking vistas.
Rock Climbing: Popular among climbers for its sandstone cliffs.
Mountain Biking: Several well-maintained trails for biking enthusiasts.

Travel Tips

Spring and fall are the best times to visit for hiking and foliage.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the views from the overlook.

5. Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob

🗺️ Location: Monongahela National Forest
📌 Best For: Rock climbing, scenic drives, backpacking

The towering Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob (West Virginia’s highest peak at 4,863 feet) make this area a hiker’s dream.

Top Attractions & Activities

Seneca Rocks Trail: A 3-mile round-trip hike with an observation deck at the top.
Spruce Knob Lookout: Drive to the highest point in the state for panoramic views.
Rock Climbing: One of the best climbing destinations in the East.
Dolly Sods Wilderness: Nearby and perfect for backcountry hiking and camping.

Travel Tips

Be prepared for rapid weather changes at Spruce Knob.
Visit in summer for clear views and cooler temperatures.

Travel Tips for Visiting West Virginia’s Parks

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom, and waterfalls are at their fullest.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for camping, hiking, and rafting.
Fall (September–November): Stunning foliage makes this the most popular season.
Winter (December–February): Great for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking.

Packing Essentials

Hiking boots: Many trails are rugged and uneven.
Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially in higher elevations.
Bug spray & sunscreen: Mosquitoes can be active in warmer months.
Map & compass/GPS: Cell service can be unreliable in remote areas.

Safety Tips

Stay on marked trails: Many parks have steep cliffs and uneven terrain.
Be bear-aware: Store food properly and carry bear spray if hiking in remote areas.
Check the weather: Flash floods and sudden storms can occur in mountainous areas.

Conclusion

West Virginia’s national and state parks offer unmatched natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs of New River Gorge, gazing at the waterfalls of Blackwater Falls, or skiing at Canaan Valley, the Mountain State promises unforgettable experiences.

Plan your trip wisely, follow safety guidelines, and embrace the wild and wonderful beauty of West Virginia!