The Mountain State has so much beauty to explore, especially on foot. With 35 state parks and countless hiking trails, you have plenty of options for some exercise, fresh air, and nature views. Kick off your day, your week, or your weekend on the right foot with a day outdoors on one of these five hikes at some of the most incredible state parks to visit in West Virginia.

1. Blackwater Falls State Park – Davis
1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA
All Trails/Doug Niedholt
Considered one of the best state parks in West Virginia, go for a leisurely stroll through Blackwater Falls State Park. There are plenty of trail options and you will need to bring along plenty of water – and a snack, in case you get hungry. Head to AllTrails to find some of the best trails in the park. From shorter treks under a mile to longer treks over four miles, you will see plenty of spectacular views along the way. You can also read more about Blackwater Falls State Park in our previous coverage.
2. Holly River State Park – Hacker Valley
Holly River State Park, 680 State Park Road, Hacker Valley, WV 26222, USA
Facebook/Holly River State Park Foundation
Embark on an invigorating hike with your family or friends at Holly River State Park. You can depart from the Anderson Building if you would like. There are plenty of trails to discover at this 8,100-acre state park that's the second-largest in West Virginia. Discover breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, lush forests, wildlife, and more along your hike. Find a trail on AllTrails. You can learn more about Holly River State Park, one of the best parks in West Virginia, in our previous post.
3. North Bend State Park – Cairo
North Bend State Park Lodge, 202 N Bend Park Rd, Cairo, WV 26337, USA
All Trails/Traci Saffell
Wake up early, put on a pair of sturdy hiking boots or shoes, and set out on an epic hike at North Bend State Park. This park covers nearly 2,500 acres along the north fork of the Hughes River. You can plan your adventure and find a trail on AllTrails. Learn more about North Bend State Park on the West Virginia State Parks website.
4. Hawks Nest State Park – Ansted
49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
All Trails/Leah Gnitka
Can you think of a better way to spend a few hours than out in the fresh air and hiking the trails at Hawks Nest State Park? Make sure to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, and dress for the weather for the hike along the Loop Trail Path that will take you to the Hawks Nest Overlook and the observation tower. (Don’t forget your camera.) You can learn more about Hawks Nest Overlook in our previous coverage. It's one of the best things to do outside in West Virginia.
5. Tygart Lake State Park – Grafton
1240 Paul E. Malone Rd, Grafton, WV 26354, USA
All Trails/Mark F.
Arguably one of the best state parks to visit in West Virginia, head outdoors for a refreshing hike at Tygart Lake State Park. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks and wear a sturdy pair of hiking shoes. Feel free to choose a hike on AllTrails. This state also has a lodge you can visit. Read more about Tygart Lake State Park Lodge in this post.

What do you think of these state parks to visit in West Virginia? Have you gone hiking at any of them? Do you have favorite hikes in West Virginia? Share your experience in the comments! If you love hiking in winter, here are 11 picturesque trails that are perfect for winter hiking in West Virginia.

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State Parks To Visit In Virginia

Melissa M. | January 14, 2022

What are some of the best state parks to visit in Virginia?

Blackwater Falls State Park is considered the best park in the state so it’s no wonder why it’s also the most visited. The largest park in West Virginia is Watoga State Park which covers over 10,000 acres in the Pocahontas Mountains. Not only can you find some of the most beautiful scenery here but plenty of recreational activities to keep you busy all year long. Babcock State Park is another fantastic place to visit and it even offers views of its charming grist mill along Glade Creek, a perfect spot for photos!

What are some of the best things to do outside in West Virginia?

Aside from exploring some of the state’s most magnificent parks, you can go mountain biking, white water rafting, rock climbing, fishing, zip-lining, swimming, boating, hiking, and so much more! You can even find ATV trails, caves to explore, or do something more daring like skydiving. The Mountain State is a perfect outdoor playground for all to enjoy.

Are there any waterfall hikes I can take in West Virginia?

Waterfalls are plentiful throughout the Mountain State, so there are many options when it comes to waterfall hikes. In our post, 7 Of The Greatest Waterfall Hiking Trails In West Virginia For Beginners, you can read about several easy trails that lead to breathtaking falls.

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Featured Addresses
Blackwater Falls State Park, 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA
Holly River State Park, 680 State Park Road, Hacker Valley, WV 26222, USA
North Bend State Park Lake, West Virginia, USA
Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
Tygart Lake State Park, 1240 Paul E Malone Rd, Grafton, WV 26354, USA