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.
Notice: Visitors to Coopers Rock State Forest during the 2024-2025 season can expect ongoing repairs and new construction on various projects, including the bridge accessing the scenic overlook; please be aware and cautious around work zones. Call (304) 594-1561 for more information.
Contact
- Phone: 304-594-1561
- Email: coopersrocksf@wv.gov
- 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 has two campgrounds and 50 total campsites. Each site can be reserved a year in advance. Both campgrounds close during the winter but open by the first weekend in April, depending on weather. To confirm opening dates, call the forest office at 304-594-1561.
McCollum Campground
This RV campground has electrical hookups at each site, a central bathhouse with showers, water available at multiple outside faucets and a centralized dump station. WiFi is available at the McCollum Campground for registered campsites and pets are permitted if they remain on a leash. Note: McCollum Campground closes for the season at the end of November.
Rhododendron Campground
Trailers are not permitted in this primitive campground. There is no electricity available and potable water is available at the restrooms. There are no showers at Rhododendron Campground, but registered guests may use the showers located in McCollum Campground restroom. Note: Rhododendron Campground closes for the season after the first weekend of November.
Trails
Download Park Trail MapClay 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
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
Visit the Trading Post at the scenic overlook area for souvenirs, snacks, toys, apparel, state forest merchandise and other items made in West Virginia.
The Trading Post is open daily, April 1 through mid-November. Normal open hours are from 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Contact the Trading Post at 304-594-3786 to check hours or to ask questions.
Nearby Attractions
ALLEGHENY TRAIL (ALT)
The Allegheny Trail is a 311-mile north-south trail with its northern terminus on the Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania-West Virginia border near Bruceton Mills. It wends its way south until meeting the Appalachian Trail on Peters Mountain at the Virginia-West Virginia border. Founded in 1972 by the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association, this trail is also known as the ALT. To learn more about the ALT, click here.
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. The nearby Youghiogheny River offers some of America’s best whitewater, trips run from April to November.
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!
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West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey's Museum of Geology and Natural History
The West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey’s Museum of Geology and Natural History, located in the lobby of the Survey’s office on Cheat Lake near Morgantown, showcases the rich and varied story of West Virginia’s geology through rock, mineral, fossil and natural history displays. In addition to being a repository for all types of geologic specimens, the museum’s ongoing collection includes historic books, maps, manuscripts and artifacts. The museum is located at 1 Mont Chateau Drive, Morgantown, WV 26508 Open hours are: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. The museum is closed weekends and holidays. Learn more by calling 304-594-2331 or visiting wvgs.wvnet.edu/www/museum/museum.htm.
West Virginia Botanic Garden at Tibbs Run Preserve
The West Virginia Botanic Garden at Tibbs Run Preserve seeks to foster learning, inspiration, nd wellbeing through the beauty and wonder of plants, the natural environment and culturally enriching experiences. The garden is located at 1061 Tyrone Road in Morgantown WV, 26508. To learn more, find maps, hours, events and a FAQ page, visit wvbg.org.