Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park protects roughly 2,300 acres of high-elevation spruce, hemlock, and hardwood forest on the Allegheny Plateau. The park's centerpiece is Blackwater Falls, where the Blackwater River drops about 57 feet into an eight-mile canyon. The tea-colored water comes from tannins released by spruce and hemlock needles upstream — the same natural staining that gave the "Blackwater" its name.

The park sits at the edge of Canaan Valley, the highest large valley east of the Mississippi, and serves as a gateway to Dolly Sods Wilderness, Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and the tiny mountain towns of Davis and Thomas.

Because of the elevation — parts of the park sit above 3,000 feet — spring arrives late and winter lingers, which gives visitors distinct seasonal experiences from icy frozen waterfalls to dense green summer shade.

The park maintains more than 20 miles of trails, most of them short and family-friendly.

Lindy Point Trail — about 0.5 miles round trip on a flat, well-trodden path to a sandstone overlook above the Blackwater Canyon.

Elakala Trail — a short loop from the lodge down to the Shays Run cascades, with several staircase sections.

Blackwater Falls Boardwalk — roughly 214 steps descending to viewing platforms at the base of the main falls.

Pendleton Point / Balanced Rock Trail — gentle paths leading to canyon views and a precarious-looking balancing boulder.

Gentle Trail — an accessible, mostly level path with a falls viewpoint suited to strollers and wheelchairs.

Blackwater Falls offers three very different ways to stay overnight. The Blackwater Falls Lodge is a full-service hotel-style property with roughly 54 rooms, an on-site restaurant, indoor pool, and game room — the easiest option for travelers who want comfort and a canyon view.

Scattered through the woods are dozens of modern cabins, from one-bedroom classics to larger multi-bedroom units with full kitchens and fireplaces. Cabins book far in advance for fall foliage weekends.

The campground offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups, plus bathhouses and a camp store. Reserve early — this is one of the most popular camping destinations in the state.

Fishing in the Blackwater River is limited by the rugged canyon, but nearby waters in Canaan Valley and the surrounding national forest provide trout and warm-water opportunities. Anglers should carry a valid West Virginia fishing license.

Wildlife watching is a year-round activity. Black bears, white-tailed deer, beavers, porcupines, and a long list of northern songbirds live in the park's high forests. Winter tracking and spring birding are local favorites.