West Virginia State Parks: Getting Closer to Nature

Location:

Buckhannon, WV

Highlights:

If you're craving a break from city noise and need fresh air and forest vibes, we can’t recommend Audra State Park enough. Nestled in the woodlands of Barbour and Upshur Counties, this scenic gem offers a serene escape into West Virginia’s natural beauty.

Recommended For:

Families, hikers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to camp under the stars.

What we Love:

The crystal-clear Middle Fork River, the hike to Alum Cave, and peaceful forest surroundings perfect for picnicking or unplugging.

• Explore hiking trails through lush woods and along riverbanks, with stunning views of the Alum Cave rock cliff.
• Relax by the river for a refreshing picnic, or wade into the clean, cool waters.
• Camp overnight and fall asleep to the gentle sound of the river and whispering trees.
• Bring the whole family—this park is peaceful, well-maintained, and a great choice for outdoor bonding.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available.

Best time to visit:

Summer for swimming and camping, Fall for crisp air and colorful foliage.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for rocky river spots and bug spray for the trails!

Distance:

About 2 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Audra State Park:

From I-79, take Exit 99 toward Weston/Elkins. Follow US-33 East to Buckhannon, then continue on County Route 11 to Audra Park Road.

Address:

8397 Audra Park Road, Buckhannon, WV
Phone: 304-457-1162

Location:

Clifftop, WV

Highlights:

Need an escape that blends adrenaline with stunning natural scenery? Babcock State Park is the ultimate playground for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Recommended For:

Adventure-seekers, campers, fishing and hunting enthusiasts, and families looking for an active getaway in the mountains.

What we Love:

Whitewater rafting and zip lining thrills, cozy creekside cabins, and endless forest trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.

• Stay in one of 13 fully-equipped cabins along Glade Creek or camp at the 52-unit campground with options for tents, RVs, and campers.
• Adventure through zip lining, whitewater rafting, and scavenger hunting with two geocache sites.
• Explore numerous hiking trails that lead you through thick forests, past scenic overlooks, and across peaceful streams.
• Fish & Hunt with designated areas and seasons—great for the outdoor sportsman.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available.

Best time to visit:

Spring and Fall for active outdoor fun and mild weather; summer for rafting and family vacations.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for creek exploring, and don’t forget your GPS if you’re geocaching!

Distance:

About 1 hour from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Babcock State Park:

Take US-60 East from Charleston toward Clifftop. Turn onto WV-41 South, then follow signs to Babcock State Park along Babcock Road.

Address:

486 Babcock Road, Clifftop, WV
Phone: 304-438-3004

Location:

Renick, WV

Highlights:

If you're up for an easy, scenic stroll with dramatic cliff views and hidden caves, Beartown State Park is a quick, rewarding escape into West Virginia's wild side.

Recommended For:

Families, geology enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure.

What we Love:

Towering boulders, narrow crevices, the relaxing boardwalk path, and nearby history at Droop Mountain Battlefield.

• Stroll the half-mile boardwalk and marvel at sandstone formations, overhangs, and mossy caves beneath Droop Mountain’s summit.
• Geocache with family or friends as you explore scenic corners of the park on a fun outdoor scavenger hunt.
• Visit nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, the site of the Civil War’s last major conflict in West Virginia.
• Camp or stay overnight at nearby Seneca State Forest or Watoga State Park, just a short drive away.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available.

Best time to visit:

Spring and Fall for cooler temps and vibrant scenery.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy shoes for rockier areas and bring a flashlight if you’re peeking into crevices.

Distance:

About 2.5 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Beartown State Park:

From Lewisburg, take US-219 North through Renick. Turn onto Beartown Road (CR-219/4) and follow signs to the park entrance near Droop Mountain.

Address:

Beartown Road, Renick, WV
Phone: 304-799-4087

Romantic West Virginia State Parks

Location:

Berkeley Springs, WV

Highlights:

If you’ve ever dreamed of soaking in natural mineral springs just like George Washington once did, Berkeley Springs State Park is the historic spa town escape you didn’t know you needed.

Recommended For:

Spa lovers, history buffs, wellness travelers, and couples seeking a rejuvenating retreat.

What we Love:

The Roman bathhouse experience, warm spring-fed swimming pool, and museum packed with colonial-era charm.

• Relax in warm Roman baths, enjoy a massage, or spend time in the soothing saunas.
• Explore the free upstairs museum in the historic bathhouse, showcasing local artifacts and spa history.
• Swim in the spring-fed outdoor pool, kept at a naturally comfortable 74°F year-round.
• Play a round at the nearby Cacapon Resort State Park’s championship golf course.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; spa services priced separately and vary by treatment.

Best time to visit:

Spring and Fall for mild weather and peaceful spa days.

Local tips:

Book spa treatments in advance—weekends can fill up quickly!

Distance:

About 2 hours from Washington, D.C.

How to Get to Berkeley Springs State Park:

From I-70 W, take Exit 1B onto US-522 South. Follow US-522 into downtown Berkeley Springs—parking is available near the park entrance.

Address:

2 South Washington Street, Berkeley Springs, WV
Phone: 304-258-9147

Location:

Davis, WV

Highlights:

If you’re looking for jaw-dropping views and year-round outdoor fun, Blackwater Falls State Park delivers with its stunning amber-hued waterfall, fresh mountain air, and every season’s adventure.

Recommended For:

Nature photographers, families, snow lovers, and travelers craving mountain escapes full of fresh air and scenic trails.

What we Love:

The dramatic 57-foot waterfall, scenic overlooks, winter sled runs, and cozy warming hut filled with hot drinks.

• See the breathtaking Blackwater Falls from multiple viewing platforms—don’t forget your camera!
• Play year-round with swimming, fishing, and hiking in the warmer months, plus sledding and cross-country skiing in the winter.
• Warm up in the seasonal hut with a cup of hot cocoa or rent gear like snowshoes and toboggans right on site.
• Stay overnight at Blackwater Lodge or in park cabins for a full mountain getaway experience.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; lodging and rentals priced separately.

Best time to visit:

Fall for foliage, winter for snow play, and summer for waterfalls and wildflowers.

Local tips:

Arrive early in peak seasons—viewpoints and sledding spots fill up fast!

Distance:

About 3 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Blackwater Falls State Park:

From Elkins, take US-219 North to WV-32 North toward Davis. Turn left onto Blackwater Lodge Road and follow signs to the park entrance.

Address:

1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, WV
Phone: 304-259-5216

Location:

Hinton, WV

Highlights:

If lakeside sunsets and action-packed days sound like your kind of trip, Bluestone State Park is your all-in-one destination for water sports, camping, and serious adventure.

Recommended For:

Outdoor thrill-seekers, lake lovers, campers, and families looking for fun-packed nature getaways.

What we Love:

Endless water activities, spacious campgrounds, and easy access to golfing and aerial adventures at Pipestem Resort.

• Swim, boat, or fish in the scenic Bluestone Lake, with rental options available for a day on the water.
• Adventure through mountain biking trails, rock climbing sites, and whitewater rafting excursions in the nearby New River Gorge region.
• Camp at one of four campgrounds—32 sites include RV and tent access with electric/water hookups and a central bathhouse.
• Golf at two beautiful courses nearby at Pipestem Resort State Park, just minutes away.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; camping and activity rentals vary by season.

Best time to visit:

Summer for lake activities, Fall for stunning mountain views and cooler hiking weather.

Local tips:

Bring your own gear for water and climbing sports to save on rental costs, and book campsites early during peak months!

Distance:

About 1.5 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Bluestone State Park:

Take I-64 East to Exit 139 toward Hinton. Continue on WV-20 South, then follow signs to the park entrance on Bluestone Lake Road.

Address:

78 HC, Hinton, WV
Phone: 304-466-2805

Location:

Berkeley Springs, WV

Highlights:

If you’re craving forest trails, lake views, and mountain air, Cacapon Resort State Park is the perfect place to unplug, explore, and unwind.

Recommended For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, horseback riders, anglers, hunters, and families looking for an active nature escape.

What we Love:

Horseback rides through the woods, peaceful fishing trips, and geocaching adventures that make the whole park feel like a playground.

• Fish in the park's scenic lake, stocked for both daytime and overnight trout fishing experiences.
• Ride through the trails on horseback or enjoy pony rides—fun for all ages.
• Bike across varied mountain terrain with routes for beginners to experienced riders.
• Explore through geocaching and spot wildlife while hiking or hunting within designated areas.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; activity rentals and horseback rides priced separately.

Best time to visit:

Spring and Fall for mild weather and vivid views; Summer for full access to lake activities.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars—wildlife sightings are common along the trails!

Distance:

About 2 hours from Washington, D.C.

How to Get to Cacapon Resort State Park:

Take I-70 West to US-522 South into Berkeley Springs. Follow WV-9 West, then turn left onto Cacapon Lodge Drive.

Address:

818 Cacapon Lodge Drive, Berkeley Springs, WV
Phone: 304-258-1022

Family-Friendly West Virginia State Parks

Location:

Cass, WV

Highlights:

If you’ve ever wanted to ride a vintage steam train through the mountains, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is your ticket to a bygone era with stunning views and rich railroad history.

Recommended For:

Train lovers, families, history buffs, and outdoor explorers looking for a mix of nostalgia and nature.

What we Love:

The scenic 11-mile steam train ride, immersive museum exhibits, and charming old lumber town vibes.

• Ride a restored steam-driven locomotive up the mountainside, with sweeping views of Bald Knob—the third highest peak in the state.
• Tour the free on-site museum and learn about the mechanics, history, and stories behind the trains and town.
• Explore nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield, hike local trails, or cast a line in a quiet fishing spot.
• Enjoy other activities like boating, golfing, and hunting in this well-rounded park experience.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; train tickets and tours priced separately.

Best time to visit:

Fall for stunning foliage views from the train; Summer for full museum and activity access.

Local tips:

Book train tickets in advance—they sell out fast in peak seasons!

Distance:

About 3.5 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park:

From Elkins, take US-219 South to WV-66 East, then follow signs into the historic town of Cass.

Address:

242 Main Street, Cass, WV
Phone: 304-456-4300

Location:

Glenville, WV

Highlights:

If you’re craving peaceful woodland beauty with a dash of Civil War history, Cedar Creek State Park is a scenic and enriching West Virginia getaway.

Recommended For:

History buffs, families, tent and RV campers, and outdoor adventurers looking for quiet charm and cultural depth.

What we Love:

History reenactments at Bulltown, beautiful forested campsites, and serene lake views perfect for boating and swimming.

• Tour historic sites like Job’s Temple (circa 1861), Civil War trenches, and the immersive Bulltown Historic Area.
• Camp at one of 65 sites with running water and electric hookups, and easy access to supplies like firewood and ice.
• Swim, boat, and fish in the peaceful lake or enjoy a round of golf surrounded by rolling hills.
• Hike wooded trails that provide a refreshing escape and great opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; camping fees vary by site and season.

Best time to visit:

Summer for swimming and historical events; Fall for cool hikes and foliage.

Local tips:

Check the park’s calendar—reenactments and historical tours are seasonal highlights!

Distance:

About 2 hours from Charleston, WV.

How to Get to Cedar Creek State Park:

Take I-79 North to Exit 67 for Flatwoods. Follow WV-5 West through Glenville, then turn onto Cedar Creek Road and follow signs into the park.

Address:

2947 Cedar Creek Road, Glenville, WV
Phone: 304-462-7158

Location:

Williamsport, MD

Highlights:

If you’re a fan of history with a side of gorgeous river views, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal offers a perfect blend of educational adventure and scenic outdoor exploration.

Recommended For:

History enthusiasts, hikers, families, photographers, and anyone curious about early American transportation and canal life.

What we Love:

Walking the historic towpath, the rugged Billy Goat Trail, views of Great Falls, and peaceful boat rides through time.

• Learn about 19th-century transportation along “The Grand Old Ditch,” used for over 100 years to move coal, lumber, and produce.
• Hike the famous Billy Goat Trail for dramatic Potomac River views and a heart-pumping climb.
• Visit Great Falls for a powerful and scenic river experience along one of the most iconic stretches of the canal.
• Ride a historic-style canal boat for a guided journey into America’s past.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; boat rides and visitor centers are free or have low admission fees.

Best time to visit:

Spring and Fall for mild temps and stunning river views.

Local tips:

The Billy Goat Trail can be rocky—wear hiking shoes and bring water!

Distance:

About 2 hours from Charleston, WV; under 2 hours from Washington, D.C.

How to Get to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal:

From I-70, take Exit 26 toward Williamsport. Follow signs to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Visitor Center on West Potomac Street.

Address:

205 West Potomac Street, Williamsport, MD
Phone: 301-582-0813