Programs

Do you frequent state parks? Appreciate the beauty and natural wonder of our forests? Do you attend special park events, activities and programs? If that’s you, then you already are a friend of West Virginia State Parks. Make it official by participating in our Very Important Parks Person Program.

Do you love hiking at West Virginia’s state parks and forests? Challenge yourself by going the extra mile and join the West Virginia State Parks Hiking Program. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls or longer treks, this program is a great way to experience the beauty of more than 1,200 miles of park and forest trails.

The West Virginia State Parks system’s mission statement is “to promote conservation by preserving and protecting natural areas of unique or exceptional scenic, scientific, cultural, archaeological, or historical significance and to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the citizens of this state and its visitors.” The parks system upholds their mission by adopting policies that better the environment. Some of these policies include, installing more efficient LED lights at all park facilities, providing recycling programs for guests and discontinuing the use of styrofoam products.

 

West Virginia State Parks also provides electric vehicle charging stations at Blackwater Falls, Cacapon, Canaan Valley, Chief Logan, Hawks Nest, Pipestem, Stonewall, Twin Falls and Tygart Lake. These stations allow guests with electronically powered cars to recharge while they enjoy their stay.

Hiking and biking are one of West Virginia’s state parks and forests main reasons for visitation to our beautiful state park system. With more than 1,200 miles of park and forest trails, including three rail trails, it takes a lot of effort and work to keep these trails clean and well maintained. Challenge yourself by going the extra mile and consider having your group Adopt-A-Trail!

West Virginia’s incredible flora and fauna make it the perfect place to get outside, discover the natural world and learn about the state’s rich natural heritage. While natural wonders can be explored at every single state park, forest or trail in West Virginia, certain areas have Nature Centers and naturalist programming to take the experience to the next level. Be sure to learn more about each park’s offerings before you hit the road!