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.
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
Watters Smith State Park, Lost Creek, WV 26385, USA
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, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813, USA
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, 3391 Veterans Blvd, New Cumberland, WV 26047, USA
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 Road, Lost River State Park Rd, West Virginia 26836, USA
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
Moncove Lake State Park, Co Rd 4/2, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA
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.
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, Beartown Road, Renick, WV, USA
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
Audra State Park, Audra, Buckhannon, WV 26201, USA
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.
Address: Cedar Creek, West Virginia, USA
Address: Little Beaver State Park, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813, USA
Address: Lost River State Park Road, Lost River State Park Rd, West Virginia 26836, USA
Address: Moncove Lake State Park, Co Rd 4/2, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA
Address: Watters Smith State Park, Lost Creek, WV 26385, USA
Address: Fairfax Stone State Park, Eglon, WV 26716, USA
Address: Tomlinson Run State Park, 3391 Veterans Blvd, New Cumberland, WV 26047, USA
Address: Beartown State Park, Beartown Road, Renick, WV, USA
Address: Audra State Park, Audra, Buckhannon, WV 26201, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
State Parks To Visit In West Virginia
February 11, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo
Aside from these state parks to visit in West Virginia, what are some other can’t-miss destinations?
In addition to state parks to visit in West Virginia, there are lots of other things to do outside in West Virginia. One spot that outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss is Snowshoe Mountain. Exactly as the name implies, it’s a prime spot for winter sports. Touted as the “most popular ski resort in West Virginia,” it boasts 60 slopes, some of which were created by an Olympic skier, practically guaranteeing a world-class ski experience. Don’t worry, though. There are routes for skiers of all skill levels, so you don’t have to be a pro to take advantage of all the resort has to offer.
What are the best parks in West Virginia?
There are tons of parks in West Virginia, but if you’re looking for one of the best parks in West Virginia, you’ve got to pay a visit to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Offering one of the state’s most unique park experiences, the site highlights Harpers Ferry, a quaint and historic community along the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. In addition to 22 miles of trails, the park features battlefields and museum exhibits. There’s a lot to see, which is why it’s best to start your exploration at the park’s visitor center.
What are some of the top hiking trails in West Virginia?
If you’re seeking a great hike with an even better pay-off, you’ve got to trek the Long Point Trail near Fayetteville! Easily one of the best hiking trails in West Virginia, the 1.6-mile trail, which is rated as moderate, is suitable for hikers of most skill levels. Any effort exerted will be well worth it, as the trail winds through beautiful fields of wildflowers and ends with a quintessential view of the New River Gorge Bridge. The 360-degree panorama is sure to stun. Make sure to bring a camera, so you can capture the moment.
Address: Cedar Creek, West Virginia, USA
Address: Little Beaver State Park, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813, USA
Address: Lost River State Park Road, Lost River State Park Rd, West Virginia 26836, USA
Address: Moncove Lake State Park, Co Rd 4/2, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA
Address: Watters Smith State Park, Lost Creek, WV 26385, USA
Address: Fairfax Stone State Park, Eglon, WV 26716, USA
Address: Tomlinson Run State Park, 3391 Veterans Blvd, New Cumberland, WV 26047, USA
Address: Beartown State Park, Beartown Road, Renick, WV, USA
Address: Audra State Park, Audra, Buckhannon, WV 26201, USA
West Virginia In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.
Rachel is proud to live in wild and wonderful West Virginia. She enjoys nature walks, photography, and discovering new restaurants all around the state.
