6 Haunted Places In West Virginia Where You Can Stay The Night… If You Dare

There's no shortage of ghost stories in West Virginia, with plenty of preserved historic buildings and lands that were strategic in the Civil War. But it's not just anywhere that you can spend all night ghost-hunting, when the paranormal activity is at its peak. If you're a fan of the supernatural, you will definitely want to visit these spots, and if you're brave enough, spend a dark night with the ghosts.

1. The Blennerhassett Hotel, Parkersburg

This hotel is thought to be haunted by the spirit of William Chancellor, the founder of the hotel. He wears an grey suit and guests sometimes get a whiff of his cigar smoke. He's thought to a friendly ghost, still trying to ensure that everyone feels cozy and comfortable in the hotel. Others have seen children in 19th-century clothes playing in the halls.

2. Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, Pocahontas County

Droop Mountain was the site of the last major conflict of the American Civil War in West Virginia, and some say that the ghosts of those fallen soldiers never left. There are cabins available for rent, so you can stay the night and maybe meet a few of those ghosts.

3. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Weston

This mental institution operated from 1864 until 1994. During the time it was open, some of the "treatments" used on patients were pretty disturbing. Some patients were subjected to solitary confinement, electroshock therapy, and restraints. In recent years, visitors have experienced some strange paranormal events in the old buildings, and overnight ghosts hunts are available to further explore the paranormal.

4. North Bend State Park, Ritchie County

This state park has a lodge, cabins, and campsites available for overnight stays. There are a few creepy ghost stories that surround the state park. You can also take a short hike to a nearby haunted tunnel on the rail trail.

5. The Lowe Hotel, Point Pleasant

Guests of this historic hotel have seen the image of a young woman dancing, a child peddling a tricycle, a former maid, and a ship captain waiting for his boat. Reserve a room, and you may meet some of these characters yourself. While you're in town, check out the Mothman museum and statue.

6. West Virginia Penitentiary, Moundsville

This prison was shut down after concerns about overcrowding and cruel conditions. Many prisoners died here, from untreated illness, murder, or execution. You can tour the prison today, and even stay overnight. Read more about the overnight ghost hunts.

If you'd like to see even more haunted places around the state, try this haunted road trip that will lead you to the scariest places in West Virginia.