About This Park
Established in 1936, Coopers Rock State Forest boasts some of the most iconic views in Almost Heaven. Located just off I-68, about 13 miles from Morgantown, the park features canyon overlooks, historical sites, picnic shelters, 50 miles of hiking and biking trails, sandstone cliffs for climbing and bouldering, cross-country ski terrain, a lake perfect for reeling in trout and a nearby river for rafting.
Winter Note: Coopers Rock State Forest main gate is closed until April 1st, 2021. The forest is still accessible by foot or bike, however, vehicles may park at the day use parking area. It is roughly 3-miles from the parking area to the main overlook along the road or roadside hiking trail.
Contact
- Phone: 304-594-1561
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 61 County Line Dr., Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
History
Coopers Rock State Forest is named for Coopers Rock, a series of sandstone cliffs above the Cheat River Gorge. Legend has it that a fugitive hid near what is now the overlook. A cooper by trade, he continued to make and sell barrels from his mountain hideout. During the 1800s the iron industry flourished in the area that is now Coopers Rock. Today the remains of the Henry Clay Furnace – the first steam-powered blast furnace in western Virginia – is a popular hiking and biking destination in the forest. The forest proper was established in 1936. Many of its structures, including the main overlook, picnic shelters and superintendent’s house, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Eleven of these structures have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Camping
Coopers Rock campground has 25 sites, all with electrical hookups, a central bathhouse with showers, and water available at an outside faucet. Wireless Internet is available for registered campsites and pets are permitted as long as your furry friends are kept on a leash. All campsites at Coopers Rock State Forest are reservable, as available.
Note: McCollum and Rhododendron campgrounds close for the season November 10, 2019 and will reopen for camping on April 1st each year. Opening dates are somewhat weather dependent.
Trails
Clay Furnace Trail
Clay Run Trail
Darnell Hollow Trail
Eagle Trail
Glade Run Trail
Goodspeed Highway Trail
Johnson Hollow Trail
Ken's Run Trail
Lick Run Trail
McCollum Trail
Mont Chateau Trail
Rattlesnake Trail
Ravens Rock Trail
Reservoir Loop Trail
Rhododendron Trail
Ridge Trail
Rock City Trail
Roadside Trail
Scott Run Trail
Underlook Trail
Virgin Hemlock Trail
Ski Trails
Intermediate Ski Trail
Advanced Ski Trail
Reservoir Ski Trail
Additional Information
Picnicking
Pack a picnic for a trail side lunch break! Numerous picnic sites and three shelters are provided for the enjoyment of forest visitors. These sites offer tables, grills, drinking water and restroom facilities. Reserve by calling the forest office at 304-594-1561.
The Trading Post
The Trading Post at Coopers Rock State Forest features souvenirs and a wide array of apparel. The Trading Post is open from April through mid-November and typically reopens for the season on April 1.
Nearby Attractions
Whitewater rafting
Are you ready for an adventure? Area outfitters provide guided trips and shuttle services on the Cheat River for whitewater rafting. The Cheat at its peak runs up to Class IV+ rapids. Float trips can also be arranged on the flatwater sections of the river.
Lakeview Golf Resort and Spa
Enjoy one of the state’s top family and golf resorts! Relax in 187 guestrooms, a full-service spa, two restaurants, an indoor swimming pool and fitness center, and two championship golf courses. Talk about rest and relaxation!
Cheat Lake
This 13-mile reservoir on the Cheat River is a popular area for boating and fishing. Three marinas provide rentals including ski boats, pontoons, paddleboards and kayaks. Your day on the water awaits!