Sometimes a getaway calls for extra special accommodations. From yurts to backcountry cabins, West Virginia state parks and forests offer a range of unique dwellings that will become just as much a part of your memories as the area’s natural beauty and vast array of recreational offerings.

Historic Housing

Before it became part of the state park system, the charming mountain community of Cass was a company town for a paper mill. Logs cut from nearby Cheat Mountain were brought to Cass by rail, where they were processed for use by paper and hardwood flooring companies. Cass’s skilled laborers, who worked in the mill or the locomotive repair shop, lived with their families in cozy little row houses that lined the street.

Today those white frame Company Houses have been restored as guest houses for visitors to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Visitors can ride an antique steam locomotive to the top of the mountain and back, stroll the quiet streets of Cass, fish in the Greenbrier River, or just sit on the porch and soak in the slower-paced mountain life. 

These restored two-story houses come in 2, 3, and 4-bedroom configurations and some can accommodate up to 14 people. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens and linens, bathrooms and showers, TV, WiFi, and propane heat and central air. Two houses are ADA accessible.

Firetower Stays

The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower located in the Seneca State Forest is one of West Virginia State Park’s most iconic attractions. The 65-foot tower provides 360-degree views of the forest and unobstructed views of the night sky. The tower may be reserved for overnight stays between May and October. The tower has two cots but can accommodate up to four guests.

The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower is a popular attraction and books up fast. Due to demand, we recommend that you make your reservation up to a year in advance.

Outpost Cabins

When you really want to get away from it all, Camp Creek State Park and Forest offers the perfect scenic secluded retreat in the mountains. The park’s Ranger Outpost Cabin can be accessed only by a 3.3-mile hike into the forest, so load up your backpack before you set out for your overnight adventure! 

The primitive cabin features a studio-style interior with four bunk beds and a loft with a twin bed. Outside you’ll find a cooking grate, fire ring, picnic table and toilet. Guests must bring their own bedding, lights, water and food.

Set atop Big Ridge Mountain near the historic Lost River Fire Tower, the Primitive Outpost Cabin at Lost River State Park is accessed via a 2-mile hike through the woods. Guests can backpack to the cabin or — for an added adventure — contact the park stables to have a horse ride you up.

The cabin has a bunk bed with two queen-size mattresses and a dining room set and chairs. Private outdoor latrines are located on site.

Yurt Life

Yurts were traditionally used as dwellings by nomadic groups in the mountains of Inner Asia. These portable round tents were covered and insulated with skins or felt. Envision yourself as an explorer at Tomlinson Run State Park sleeping in a yurt of your own. The park’s modernized version consists of a durable fabric cover stretched over a wood frame with a frame door. A 5-person yurt comes with a cooler, propane stove, lantern, picnic table and cookware, and one set of bunk beds. It’s the perfect base camp for a day of hiking, biking and fishing.

Group Lodging

If you’re planning a get-together for a large group, gather them all under one roof at The Old Inn at Cacapon Resort State Park. This hand-hewn log structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps was the first lodge in the West Virginia park system.

The inn sleeps up to 32 people and features 12 bedrooms with 8 full baths and 1 half bath. The bedroom on the first floor is ADA accessible, as is the remainder of the first floor, including the sitting room, common room, dining room, kitchen and a half bath.

The kitchen is fully equipped for large groups with a commercial stove, ice machine, two refrigerators, two dishwashers, commercial microwave, commercial coffee maker, toaster, pots and pans, and dishes. Other amenities include cable TV and WiFi.

The Old Inn is conveniently located near park amenities including Cacapon Resort’s Healing Waters Spa and an 18-hole championship golf course.

All unique dwelling opportunities at state parks are by advanced reservation.

Start planning your Almost Heaven getaway and book your unique stay today!

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