Green Initiative

The West Virginia State Parks system’s mission statement is “to promote conservation by preserving and protecting natural areas of unique or exceptional scenic, scientific, cultural, archaeological, or historical significance and to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the citizens of this state and its visitors.” The parks system upholds their mission by adopting policies that better the environment. Some of these policies include, installing more efficient LED lights at all park facilities, providing recycling programs for guests and discontinuing the use of styrofoam products.

West Virginia State Parks also provides electric vehicle charging stations at Blackwater Falls, Cacapon, Canaan Valley, Chief Logan, Hawks Nest, Pipestem, Stonewall, Twin Falls and Tygart Lake. These stations allow guests with electronically powered cars to recharge while they enjoy their stay. There is no fee for charging an electronic car at a state park.

Hiking Program

Do you love hiking at West Virginia's state parks and forests? Challenge yourself by going the extra mile and join the West Virginia State Parks Hiking Program. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls or longer treks, this program is a great way to experience the beauty of more than 1,200 miles of park and forest trails.

Earn Rewards for Hiking at State Parks and Forests

Get more out of your time on the trail by enrolling in this program. Once registered, all you have to do is log your hiking miles at state parks and forests. You'll earn rewards for reaching personal plateaus. The program is not a competition, is self-paced and does not have a time limit to earn rewards.

After you register, we'll send you a log card to record your mileage. All mileage must be hiked on designated trails in a state park or forest. This includes the North Bend and Greenbrier River rail trails. You also will receive rewards as you reach hiking plateaus of 25, 50 and 100 miles.

Join the West Virginia State Parks Hiking Program Today!

Joining the hiking program is simple. Click here to download a registration form. Once completed, mail it to the West Virginia State Parks Office along with the $15 registration fee. Mail should be addressed as follows:

West Virginia State Parks Hiking Program
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Parks and Recreation Section
324 4th Avenue
South Charleston, West Virginia 25303

Questions about the West Virginia State Park Hiking Program may be emailed to dnr.parks@wv.gov.

Very Important Parks Person Program

Do you frequent state parks? Appreciate the beauty and natural wonder of our forests? Do you attend special park events, activities and programs? If that's you, then you already are a friend of West Virginia State Parks. Make it official by participating in our Very Important Parks Person Program.

Become a VIPP Today!

A lifetime of enjoyment at state parks and forests awaits. To enroll, use the form below or call 304-558-2764.

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VIPP Perks

By visiting designated park facilities and completing program requirements, you'll receive a patch and $25 West Virginia State Parks gift card. Please, allow two weeks to receive your enrollment letter and log cards in the mail.