We want everyone to be able to enjoy our beautiful state parks and forests. Visitors of all abilities can find accessible lodging, trails, scenic overlooks and outdoor activities here in Almost Heaven.

Plan an overnight stay

Lodge rooms and cabins throughout the park system have accessibility options. All you have to do is decide which part of the state you’d like to visit, from Chief Logan Lodge in the heart of southern West Virginia to the newly renovated Cacapon Resort State Park in the Eastern Panhandle. Or from North Bend State Park in the Mid-Ohio Valley to Watoga State Park in the eastern mountains. View a complete list of accessible accommodations here.

Enjoy trails, boardwalks and overlooks

Several parks offer paved trails that can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers where you can get in touch with nature and soak in the scenery. The Gentle Trail at Blackwater Falls State Park leads to a viewing platform of the spectacular main falls. The Spotted Salamander Trail at Kanawha State Forest features braille interpretive nature stations around the paved loop course. At Twin Falls Resort State Park, the Twin Oaks Trail provides a gentle walk on a quarter-mile trail.

Those with limited ability will be able to take in stunning views at the overlooks at Coopers Rock State Forest and Hawks Nest State Park. The observation deck at Cacapon Resort is accessible. Getting to the area requires a short drive to the site, but it’s worth the effort. For a stunning viewshed that is easily accessible, look to the park lodges. At Tygart Lake State Park you can take in a spectacular sunset over the lake as you dine on the patio or in the lodge restaurant. The dining room at Hawks Nest Lodge treats guests to spectacular views of the New River Gorge. Meanwhile, the Cardinal Deck of the lodge at Pipestem Resort State Park offers jaw-dropping views of the Bluestone River Gorge. Visitors will also be rewarded with sweeping views from the lodge portico at Canaan Valley Resort State Park.

Cast a line in WV lakes and streams

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources manages seasonal stockings on public lakes, streams and rivers throughout the state. Look for designated Class Q fishing areas that offer unique angling opportunities for children and individuals with disabilities. Those areas include Mash Fork at Camp Creek State Park and Forest. You can also find accessible piers like those at Beech Fork and Tomlinson Run state parks. Consult the WVDNR for more information and to view a fishing interactive map.

Safe places for kids to play

Parks have accessible playgrounds, with Kanawha State Forest having recently installed new accessible equipment adjacent to the Spotted Salamander Trail. A swing set features a wheelchair platform swing that operates with a pull chain and a child adaptive swing with back support and a secure front panel. Self-propelled spinner equipment is designed for inclusive play. The ADA-compliant swings and spinners are set on a solid rubber surface.

Take in the scenery from a train

All aboard! The train at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park can accommodate wheelchairs. Passengers can enjoy an authentic steam-driven locomotive train ride up the mountain, stopping at awe-inspiring overlooks at Whittaker Station and Bald Knob.

Plan Your Trip Today!

Everyone has different needs and abilities. If you have questions about a particular area or activity, speak with a park employee about your considerations.

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