Holly River State Park Overview & History

Park Overview

With 8,101 acres, Holly River is West Virginia’s second largest state park and is known for its wide range of flora, including wildflowers and ferns. Located in a narrow valley in the Mountain Lakes region, the park is surrounded by heavily forested mountains, some reaching more than 2,800 feet in height. The dense forests of Holly River provide guests with a natural setting where they can find peaceful solitude. Recreational opportunities include camping, hiking, swimming and tennis. Amenities include picnic shelters and corrals for campers with horses.

Park History

The area now known as Holly River State Park was settled around 1870 by a group of immigrants from Switzerland. After years of the land being stripped of useful timber, the U.S. Department of Agriculture began purchasing land, and in 1937 began reforesting and restoring the area to the deep woodlands enjoyed by visitors today. In 1938, Holly River was designated a wildlife refuge and opened as an official state park, but it wasn’t until 1954 that the federal government deeded the land to the state of West Virginia. Since then, many trails have been blazed, cabins have been refurbished and campsites have been constructed. Other improvements have included the construction of game courts, a swimming pool and other outdoor recreational facilities enjoyed by hundreds of visitors each year.