Kanawha State Forest Overview & History

Forest Overview

Located seven miles from Charleston, Kanawha State Forest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest covers 9,300 acres with more than 60 miles of hiking and biking trails that are ideal for every season. Many naturalists take note of the forest for its diverse wildflower and bird populations. Rich cover forest sites provide nesting habitat for 19 species of wood warblers, drawing the attention of bird watchers from far and wide. Picnic shelters and playground equipment are available for the enjoyment of every visitor. In-season hunting is permitted for those with a valid license. After a full day of fun, you can nestle beneath the stars on a perfectly equipped campground, one of the few near Charleston. The campground is open from April to December, weather permitting.

Forest History

The original land that makes up the Kanawha State Forest was once the site of extensive mining and logging. In 1937, the West Virginia Conservation Commission purchased 6,705 acres on the headwaters of Davis Creek outside of Charleston. The following year, Camp Kanawha arose as a project of the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC removed coal tipples and other structures no longer in use and built roads, the superintendent’s residence and picnic shelters. A dam was also built across Davis Creek to create a small lake. After Camp Kanawha was closed in 1942, the state acquired an additional 2,500 acres. The Kanawha State Forest Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.