Unplug and unwind at Cabwaylingo State Forest
Southern West Virginia retreat is a favorite destination for hiking, hunting and fishing
With more than 8,000 acres of forest to explore at Cabwaylingo State Forest, you can unplug and unwind and enjoy a distraction free getaway in nature’s playground. Do yourself and your family a favor and plan a phone-free weekend in this beautiful forest, named after four neighboring counties: Cabell, Wayne, Lincoln and Mingo. Just a short jaunt from Huntington, Cabwaylingo is a favorite retreat for family reunions and recreational activities like hunting, fishing and hiking.
Here’s everything you need to know about this beautiful state forest and a few things you might enjoy during your stay.
Your cabin is a part of history
Established in the 1930s, Cabwaylingo was one of several parks and forests in West Virginia to benefit from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps initiative to rebuild forested land throughout the country.
Between 1935 and 1939, two CCC companies occupied Camp Anthony Wayne (now known as Cabwaylingo), where they surveyed timber and game, fought forest fires, cleared trails and built log cabins. These legacy cabins are still used today and feature a cozy wood frame or stone construction. These are the kinds of cabins childhood vacation memories are made in!
The forest also has two campgrounds, one of which is near a decommissioned fire tower. While closed to the public, you can see it by hiking the Indian Trail at Cabwaylingo State Forest or camping at the Tick Ridge Campground.
A forest to explore and activities to enjoy
Nine miles of hiking trails wind through the woods, showcasing a variety of wildflowers trees as well as overhanging rock cliffs that once provided shelter for early settlers. The park also has game courts, playgrounds and several picnic shelters.
Anglers can cast a line in the West Fork of Twelvepole Creek, which is stocked with trout monthly from February to May. A proper license and stamps are required and can be purchased at www.wvfish.com.
Hunting also is permitted in the forest during the proper season. Big game includes deer and turkey, but there’s also squirrel, rabbit and grouse. Now’s a great time to start planning your fall hunting excursion. But make sure you have a license before you go. They can be purchased at www.wvhunt.com.
Nearby attractions
The sprawling, 720-acre lake at Beech Fork State Park is a favorite spot for recreational boating and fishing.
Highlights of Chief Logan State Park include summer outdoor theater, a live wildlife exhibit and a museum of local and regional history.
Camden Park, West Virginia’s oldest and only amusement park, promises thrills, fun and games for the whole family. Attractions include a wooden rollercoaster, carousel, miniature golf and paddle boats.
Visitors can experience 19th century living history and watch skilled artisans at work at Heritage Farm Museum & Village, which also has a petting zoo and gift shop.
Visit Cabwaylingo State Forest and discover your “Almost Heaven.” Plan your West Virginia State Parks getaway today!
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