The Best West Virginia Parks for Summer Hiking and Picnicking
Summer is the perfect time to explore the stunning natural beauty of West Virginia, and what better way to do so than by hiking and picnicking in our magnificent parks? With so many options to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to what we think are five of the best parks for your summer outdoor adventures: Audra State Park, Coopers Rock State Forest, Babcock State Park, New River Gorge National Park, and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
Audra State Park
Located in Barbour County, West Virginia, Audra State Park is a scenic 355-acre park that offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. The park’s centerpiece is the Middle Fork River, which flows through the park, creating beautiful rock formations and cascades.
The park’s main hiking attraction is the Alum Cave Trail. This family-friendly trail stretches 2.7 miles and is rated as easy, making it perfect for both campers and day visitors. The trail features a boardwalk that winds below the impressive Alum Cave overhang and provides spectacular views of the Middle Fork River.ย ย In some areas, the trail provides access to the river for wading and nature exploration.
Hikers on the Alum Cave Trail may encounter wildlife such as white-tailed deer, squirrels, and various bird species. The trail also showcases diverse plant life, including popular rhododendron thickets and varieties of maple, oak, and pine trees. The trail offers excellent opportunities for nature photography, especially when the foliage is colorful.
Audra State Park offers camping facilities, including 67 campsites, some with electric hookups. The park also has a swimming area in the Middle Fork River, which is popular during summer months. Picnicking is available in the park, with picnic sites located near the campground and day-use areas.
Coopers Rock State Forest
Not technically a park, but if you want a spectacular summer outdoor experience, Coopers Rock State Forest is hard to beat. Straddling both Monongalia and Preston County borders, this 12,747-acre forest offers some of West Virginia’s best hiking and picnicking opportunities. The forest boasts over 50 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, perfect for summer exploration.
The crown jewel is the Coopers Rock Overlook trail, leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge from 1,200 feet above the river – an ideal spot for a memorable summer picnic. Speaking of picnics, the forest features several well-maintained picnic areas with tables and grills, many offering scenic views that make for perfect outdoor dining.
After your hike and picnic, cool off in the shade of the forest’s lush canopy. With its variety of trails and picturesque picnic spots, Coopers Rock State Forest is a top choice for summer outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike and dine amidst nature’s splendor.
Babcock State Park
For summer hiking and picnicking, Babcock State Park in Fayette County is a top choice. This 4,127-acre park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, perfect for summer exploration. The park’s main attraction, the Glade Creek Grist Mill, provides a stunning backdrop for photos and picnics alike.
Hikers can enjoy trails like the moderate 3-mile Narrow Gauge Trail along Glade Creek, ideal for a creekside picnic. For a more adventurous hike, try the Rocky Trail, which rewards with scenic overlooks perfect for a mountaintop lunch break.
Picnickers will find numerous areas throughout the park, including spots near the Grist Mill and along Glade Creek. The Island-in-the-Sky picnic area offers panoramic views of the New River Gorge, making for a memorable summer meal outdoors.
With its combination of well-maintained trails, picturesque picnic spots, and the option to cool off with a swim in Boley Lake, Babcock State Park provides an ideal setting for summer hiking and picnicking adventures in West Virginia.
New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge, West Virginia’s first national park, offers exceptional summer hiking and picnicking experiences. Encompassing over 70,000 acres along one of North America’s oldest rivers, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hikers can explore over 100 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The Endless Wall Trail, a moderate 2.4-mile loop, is particularly popular in summer, offering stunning views of the gorge and access to rock climbing areas. For a more leisurely hike, try the Grandview Rim Trail, which provides scenic overlooks perfect for a picnic break.
Picnicking opportunities abound throughout the park. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center area offers tables with a spectacular view of the New River Gorge Bridge. Grandview is another prime picnic spot, featuring tables near the Main Overlook with panoramic gorge vistas. For a riverside picnic, head to the Sandstone Falls area, where you can enjoy your meal with the soothing sound of the river in the background.
With its diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged cliffs, New River Gorge National Park provides a stunning backdrop for summer hiking adventures and scenic picnics, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers.
The park’s combination of stunning scenery, diverse recreational opportunities, and well-maintained picnic areas makes it an ideal destination for a summer picnic in West Virginia.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
While known for its historic railroad, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park also offers unique summer hiking and picnicking experiences. Located in Pocahontas County, this park combines natural beauty with a glimpse into West Virginia’s logging history.
Hikers can enjoy trails that showcase the Appalachian wilderness and the park’s industrial past. The Leatherbark Trail, a moderate 4-mile round trip, takes you through lush forests to a scenic overlook. For a historical hike, explore the short Cabin Trail, which leads to restored logging camp houses.
Picnicking in Cass offers a nostalgic twist. The main picnic area near the Cass Depot provides tables and grills, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals amid the charm of a preserved logging town. For a truly unique experience, pack a picnic to enjoy at Whittaker Station or Bald Knob after a scenic train ride up the mountain.
Whether you’re hiking through history-rich forests or picnicking in the shadow of vintage steam engines, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park provides a distinctive summer outdoor adventure that blends nature with West Virginia’s industrial heritage.
Safety Tips and Reminders:
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
- Check park websites for current conditions, closures, or alerts before visiting.
- Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and check for ticks during your summer hikes.
West Virginia’s parks offer endless opportunities for summer hiking and picnicking, and Audra State Park, Coopers Rock State Forest, Babcock State Park, New River Gorge National Park, and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park are just a few of the many incredible destinations to explore. So grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and head out to discover the natural beauty of the Mountain State. And remember, if you need any gear or essentials for your outdoor adventures, Country Roads Sporting Goods has you covered!
These are just a few of our favorites, but we have so many more beautiful parks here in the Mountain State.ย What’s your favoriate West Virginia park for hiking and picnicking?ย Share with us below!
