Monongalia & Preston Counties, West Virginia
Coopers Rock State Forest
Fifteen minutes from Morgantown, Coopers Rock delivers one of the state's great gorge overlooks, 50 miles of trails, historic iron furnace ruins, and a sandstone climbing playground above the Cheat River.
Quick Info
- County / Location
- Monongalia & Preston Counties, near Morgantown, WV
- Best For
- Overlooks, hiking, rock climbing, picnics, camping
- Best Time to Visit
- April–November; October for foliage
- Time Needed
- 2–4 hours for the overlook and easy trails; a full day to hike
- Fees
- Day use free; small fee for camping
- Notable Amenities
- Overlook, picnic areas, campground, trails, historic iron furnace
Overview
Coopers Rock State Forest covers nearly 13,000 acres of high Allegheny Plateau on both sides of the Cheat River near Morgantown. Its centerpiece is the Coopers Rock Overlook, a sandstone cliff that looks out over the Cheat River Gorge, more than 1,000 feet below.
The forest grew out of land that was heavily logged and mined in the 1800s; the stone ruins of the Henry Clay Iron Furnace, built around 1834, still stand along Clay Run and recall that industrial past. The Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the picnic shelters and trails in the 1930s.
Today Coopers Rock is a local favorite for quick escapes from WVU and Morgantown, and a serious destination for climbers drawn to its sandstone walls.
Things to Do
- •Take in the view from the Coopers Rock Overlook.
- •Rock climb or boulder on the forest's sandstone crags.
- •Hike to the historic Henry Clay Iron Furnace ruins.
- •Picnic at the CCC-era shelters along the rim.
- •Explore Rock City's maze of giant boulders.
- •Camp in the quiet forest campground.
Hiking Trails
Coopers Rock maintains around 50 miles of trails, from paved overlook paths to steep gorge descents and long forest loops.
Rattlesnake Trail — a rim trail with multiple gorge viewpoints, one of the forest's most popular walks.
Rock City Trail — an easy loop through a jumble of enormous sandstone blocks.
Clay Run Trail — a moderate route to the Henry Clay Iron Furnace ruins, passing a small waterfall.
Mont Chateau Trail — a longer, quieter forest loop away from the main overlook crowds.
Roadside Trail — a short connector along the rim near the picnic areas.
Camping & Lodging
The forest's McCollum Campground offers roughly 25 wooded sites, some with electric hookups, along with restrooms, showers, and a small camp store. It is a straightforward, low-key base for exploring the gorge.
There are no cabins or lodge at Coopers Rock. Because Morgantown is only about 15 minutes away, many visitors stay in town and drive out for the day.
Rock Climbing & Scenery
Coopers Rock is one of West Virginia's best trad climbing areas, with sandstone cliffs and crags around the gorge offering routes for a range of abilities, plus excellent bouldering. Climbers should follow current access rules, register where required, and never climb above the road or overlook railings.
Non-climbers still get plenty of scenery: the overlook, Rock City's boulders, and the deep Cheat River Gorge create constant photo opportunities. The forest is home to deer, black bears, and a rich mix of songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Best Time to Visit & Directions
Spring through fall is the main season, with October delivering outstanding foliage over the gorge. Winter is quiet but the access road can be icy; check conditions before heading up.
From Morgantown, take I-68 east to Exit 15, then follow County Route 73/12 to the forest entrance. The drive is about 15 minutes from downtown Morgantown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee for the overlook?+
No. Access to the overlook and trails is free. You only pay a small fee to camp or for special permits.
Can beginners rock climb here?+
Coopers Rock is primarily a trad climbing area with some easier routes and bouldering. Beginners should go with experienced climbers or a guide.
How far is the overlook from parking?+
It is a short walk on a paved path from the main overlook parking area, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
Is the campground open year-round?+
Camping is generally seasonal, roughly spring through fall. Check current dates and reservation details before you travel.
Can I bring my dog?+
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails and in the campground. Keep them away from cliff edges and other visitors' picnic areas.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent guide to West Virginia's state parks, mountain towns, trails, and waterfalls. We publish practical, first-hand trip planning for the Mountain State. Learn more about us.