National parks get all the glory, but state parks across the United States are endless sources of natural wonder and recreation. West Virginia’s nearly 50 state parks are no exception, each with their own unique characteristics. From mountains and rolling hills to stunning waterfalls, lakes, and canyon overlooks, the state parks of West Virginia are a sight to be seen. There’s a good reason West Virginia is dubbed “Almost Heaven.”
Here are five West Virginia state parks any nature lover enthusiast will fall for.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls gets its name from the dark tint of the 57-foot cascade, caused by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. Located in the Allegheny mountains of Tucker County, this park is one of the most photographed regions in the state of West Virginia. Visitors can enjoy mountain biking, fishing, camping, and 20 miles of hiking trails.
When to go: Any season makes for a great visit, but from mid-December through February, the quarter-mile-long magic carpet sled run is a thrill for the whole family. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, boating, swimming, and paddle sports are open at Pendleton Lake.
Fun fact: In the winter, the falls often ice over completely, giving visitors a strikingly different look at this picturesque natural wonder.
Babcock State Park
Located in Cliff Top, about an hour and a half from Charleston, Babcock State Park is one of the first state parks to be established in West Virginia. It is home to the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill, an operational replica of the water-powered Cooper’s Mill, which was once used to grind corn, wheat, and buckwheat into flour for local families in the 1800s. Visitors can boat, fish, picnic, and hike year-round at Babcock State Park. Cabin enthusiasts will get a kick out of the onsite Legacy Cabins, built in the 1930s and located near the Grist Mill.
When to go: The park is open year-round, but the Glade Creek Grist Mill is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. After that, it is open only on the weekends through the end of October.
Fun fact: You can get a view of the mill anytime you want on the Babcock webcam, a 24/7 live view of the Glade Creek Grist Mill.
Coopers Rock State Forest
In Bruceton Mills, Coopers Rock State Forest boasts a series of sandstone cliffs that run along the Cheat River Gorge. There’s an impressive view at the canyon overlook, plus opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Take a walk back in time on the Henry Clay Iron Furnace trail, a popular hiking trail with historical remnants of the region’s iron industry. There are two main camping areas, McCollum Campground and The Rhododendron Campground, which offer tent and recreational vehicle camping sites. Tent camping is open from April 1 through December 15.
When to go: Any season, but hikers will love the turning color of the fall trees. During snowy season, cross country skiing in this area is very popular. Visitors can enjoy rock climbing and bouldering year-round.
Fun fact: Many of the structures like the main overlock and picnic shelters in the park were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.
Summersville Lake
West Virginia’s newest state park, Summersville Lake was designated August 11, 2023 by Governor Jim Justice. It was the first state park to be added in 30 years. Summersville Lake is the highlight of this park, known for its blue waters and unique rock formations. The lake has 2,800 acres of water and 60 miles of shoreline, making it the largest lake in the state, and offers fishing, hiking, boating, climbing, and even snorkeling and scuba diving.
When to go: There are activities year-round, but boating and swimming enthusiasts will enjoy moderate temps on the water between June and September.
Fun fact: This park is referred to as the Bahamas of the East because of its clear water. Attention rock climbing fans: There are big plans for climbing access and education in the coming months and years.
Hawk’s Nest State Park
With epic views of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, this park is in the heart of whitewater rafting territory. Haw’s Nest State Park was named after the nesting osprey in this area before the Chesapeake and Ohio railway disrupted their habitat. Recreational opportunities in and around Hawk’s Nest include jet boat rides, swimming, whitewater rafting, biking, and hiking. Visitors can stay at the 31-room Hawk’s Nest State Park Lodge and dine with views of the Gorge at the lodge’s restaurant called The Overlook.
When to go: Campers will love year-round camping in Tentrr canvas tent campsites.
Fun fact: The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which can be seen from Hawk’s Nest State Park, was redesignated as America’s 63rd National Park in 2021, after originally being established as the New River Gorge National River in 1978.
Get trip inspiration for a visit to West Virginia State Park’s blog.
