About This Park
Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls, along with a few of the park’s other features like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook, are some of the state’s most photographed spots. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views year-round by taking the steps to the falls or using viewing platforms. The park has 20 miles of hiking trails, the longest sledding magic carpet on the East Coast, a comfortable lodge and more.
Contact
- Phone: 304-259-5216
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260
History
The area that is now Blackwater Falls State Park has been a favored destination for adventurers since the 1800s. The land came under the protection of the state parks system in the 1930s when the West Virginia Power and Transmission Company, which owned the Blackwater Canyon, donated 446 acres around a scenic overlook at the head of the canyon, including the falls itself. The park was formerly established in 1937. In 1955, the state began adding cabins, a lodge and fishing facilities.
Dining
The lodge restaurant, The Smokehouse, is open daily and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. A well-rounded menu is available and buffets are offered during peak seasons and holiday weekends. The restaurant caters banquets, receptions and barbecues for special groups like business meetings, family reunions and weddings.
At this time, The Smokehouse menu varies frequently. For current menu items, visit the Smokehouse at Blackwater Falls Facebook page or call 304-259-5216 and ask for the restaurant.
Restaurant Hours
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 4-7 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-9 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Trails
Allegheny Trail
Balanced Rock Trail
Balsam Fir Trail
Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail
Cherry Lane Trail
Davis Trail
Dobbin House Trail
Elakala Trail
Gee Haw Trail
Gentle Trail
Lindy Point Trail
Pase Point Trail
Pendleton Trace Trail
Red Spruce Trail
Rhododendron Trail
River Road Trail
Shay Trace Trail
Spudder Track Trail
Stemwinder Trail
Watertank Trail
Yellow Birch Trail
Nearby Attractions
Canaan Valley Resort
Blackwater Falls State Park is less than seven miles from Canaan Valley Resort State Park. This area is a hiking and biking paradise, and more!
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Visit the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, with 16,225 acres managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge features 31 miles of year-round trails, hunting and fishing opportunities.
Davis and Thomas, WV
Get a taste of small-town West Virginia and visit the nearby towns of Davis and Thomas for art shops, breweries and restaurants, live music and other local favorites. For more information about these towns and more activities in the area, visit the Tucker County CVB’s website here.
Monongahela National Forest
Spanning nearly a million acres, this forest encompasses one of America’s most diverse ecological regions. Hundreds of bird species live here, as do 8 types of endangered animals and 75 kinds of trees. Highlights include Spruce Knob (the state’s highest peak at 4,863 feet), rustic camping, picnicking, and backpacking.