9 Under-Appreciated State Parks In West Virginia You’re Sure To Love

When thinking of state parks in West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park and Babcock State Park undoubtedly come to mind. And while these parks might be among the best state parks in West Virginia, they’re not the only state parks in West Virginia. There are lots of lesser-known state parks to visit in West Virginia, too. Not so sure? We thought you might need some convincing, which is why we compiled a list of amazing – yet often under-appreciated – state parks to visit in West Virginia.

1. Cedar Creek State Park

Cedar Creek State Park is along Cedar Creek in Gilmer County, West Virginia, located about 4 miles south of Glenville. The park has a historic cabin and a one-room schoolhouse. Read more about the park and the charming little town of Glenville here.

2. Watters Smith Memorial State Park

Both a historical park and national historic district, Watters Smith Memorial State Park has a pioneer homestead and museum. The park also features swimming, picnicking, hiking trails, and horseback riding. Read more about the park here.

3. Little Beaver State Park

Little Beaver State Park is a state park in Raleigh County that's packed with things to do. Here, you'll find a picnic area, playground, hiking trails, mountain biking trails, fishing in Little Beaver Lake, boat rentals at Little Beaver Lake, and a 46-site campground. Read more about the park here.

4. Tomlinson Run State Park

Tomlinson Run State Park is hidden away in the very tip of the Northern Panhandle. It's the only state park in West Virginia to offer camping in a yurt. There are also cabins available. Read more about the park here.

5. Lost River State Park

Lost River State Park in Hardy County was named after the 1756 Battle of Lost River. History lovers will appreciate the park, and it also has a variety of sports opportunities, campsites, and horseback riding trails. Read more about the park here.

6. Moncove Lake State Park

This park is alongside Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area in Monroe County. The park offers great birdwatching and is right in the path of the fall hawk migration. Read more about the park here.

7. Fairfax Stone Historical Monument State Park

West Virginia's tiniest park is just 4 square acres. However, this little park has some big history. The Fairfax Stone is on the borders of Tucker County and Preston County, marking the once highly disputed border between West Virginia and Maryland. Read more about the park here.

8. Beartown State Park

Beartown State Park is located on the eastern summit of Droop Mountain, near Hillsboro. This quiet park has nothing but miles of hiking trails, but the beautiful scenery alone makes it worth a visit. Read more about the park here.

9. Audra State Park

This park in Barbour County sits along the Middle Fork River. It's a great destination in the summertime, with natural swimming pools and large, flat rocks that are perfect for sunbathing. There's also a boardwalk that leads to the scenic Alum Cave. Read more about the park here.

So, of all the state parks to visit in West Virginia, did you know about these? Ever visited any of these under-appreciated parks? If so, what'd you think? Do they qualify as some of the best state parks in West Virginia? Or, at the very least, some of the best parks in West Virginia? Tell us!

Though the state parks in West Virginia are amazing, they're not your only option for outdoor fun. Click here to read about 11 free things to do outside in West Virginia.