Spring is just around the corner. The melting snow and heavier rainfall during spring refreshes West Virginia’s rivers and creeks making it the perfect time of year to go waterfall chasing and we have a gushing road trip that will have you traveling throughout Almost Heaven to the best waterfall spots in the state.

Stop 1: Camp Creek State Park and Forest

Our first stop is in the southern part of the state off I-77 in Mercer County, WV. Known for its beautiful waterfalls and great camping, Camp Creek is home to nearly 6,000 acres of lush forest, 35 miles of trails and seven miles of streams. There you can check out Campbell Falls which is easily located right alongside Camp Creek Road.

Stop 2: Twin Falls Resort State Park

Just northwest of our first stop, Twin Falls Resort State park is set on a high, wooded ridge in the rugged mountains of Wyoming County. Twin Falls is home to two seasonal waterfalls that give the park its name, Marsh Fork and Black Fork Falls. Marsh Fork is a short walk from the falls parking lot. Black Fork Falls is a ½ hike along Falls Trail. In addition to the falls, visitors to Twin Falls can enjoy more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and 18 -hole golf course, the fully-functional Pioneer Farm, and cozy lodgings at the resort lodge or cabins.

Stop 3: Hawks Nest State Park

From Twin Falls, make your way up to Hawks Nest State Park. Mill Creek Falls is a 20-foot drop on Mill Creek. This the largest drop of several falls that can be spotted as you hike along the Hawks Nest Rail Trail. While you visit, don’t miss out on the other amazing attractions in and around this state park. Hawks Nest offers a nature museum, aerial tramway, jetboat rides and some of the most challenging whitewater boating waterways in the nation. Additionally, the park is located just 10 miles north of the iconic new River Gorge Bridge. Hawks Nest also boasts a lodge with 31 luxurious rooms.

Stop 4: Holly River State Park

From Hawks Nest, make your way north to Holly River State Park. With 8,101 acres of dense forest, there is plenty to explore in this peaceful paradise. This state park is home to five waterfalls: Tecumseh Falls, Tenskwatawa Falls, Upper Falls, Shupe’s Chute, and Lower Falls. Catch the best waterfall views from the Potato Knob Trail.

Stop 5: Valley Falls State Park

Near Fairmont, WV, Valley Falls State Park is about an hour north of Holly River. Its name comes from a series of four picturesque falls created by the dark, rushing waters of the Tygart Valley River. The falls tumble over two wide, rocky ledges and are followed by a series of rapids. The river and falls is a popular destination for kayakers.

Stop 6: Blackwater Falls State Park

Last but most certainly not least, our final stop on our waterfall road trip is Blackwater Falls State Park. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, the park is named for the unique amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. Follow the Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail to access the viewing deck beside Blackwater Falls. Additionally, the Elakala Trail will guide you to an excellent view of Elakala Falls. When visiting Blackwater Falls, be sure to check out the surrounding area, including the quaint towns of Davis and Thomas, WV. Visitors can stay at Blackwater Falls’ comfortable lodge or cabins.  

Whether you visit one or all of the spots on our waterfall road trip, the gorgeous waterfalls throughout West Virginia’s state parks are truly unique and remarkable. As you travel through the state and witness the stunning beauty of these magnificent falls on our list, you’ll see exactly why West Virginia is referred to as Almost Heaven.

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