Historic Bramwell
At its peak, tiny Bramwell claimed more millionaires per capita than any town in America, all made rich by coal. Today you can tour grand Victorian and Tudor homes and the coal-era bank on a self-guided or guided walk.
Southern Highlands
Mercer County WV Travel Guide
Bluefield, Princeton, Pipestem and the Millionaire's Town of Bramwell make up a corner of West Virginia where mountain resorts, coal-era mansions and high-elevation state parks sit side by side.
Quick Info
- County Seat
- Princeton, WV
- Best For
- Resorts, history, golf, family trips
- Best Time
- Spring–fall; year-round at Pipestem
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
Where the Highlands Meet History
Mercer County sits on the high plateau of southern West Virginia, right on the Virginia line. Its elevation — Bluefield is one of the highest cities east of the Mississippi — gives it cooler summers, snowy winters and long, dramatic views.
The county's story is inseparable from coal. Bluefield grew rich on the Pocahontas coalfields, and nearby Bramwell became known as the "Millionaire's Town" for the number of wealthy coal operators who built grand homes along its single main street.
Today the county blends that history with modern outdoor recreation. Pipestem Resort State Park anchors the south, Camp Creek offers a quieter escape, and Pinnacle Rock rises above it all as one of the most photographed formations in the region.
City Life
Bluefield: The High City
Bluefield straddles the Virginia border and spills down a steep ridge, giving it a distinctive, terraced look. Its downtown holds a cluster of historic buildings, a restored theater and the Bluefield Area Arts Center, along with local restaurants and shops.
The city is famous for its mountain setting and its nostalgic landmarks, including the long-running Ridge Runner train excursion that once linked the two Bluefields. Views from the higher streets stretch for miles across the surrounding ridges.
It is a good base for exploring both Mercer County and the Virginia highlands just across the state line.
Pipestem Resort State Park
Pipestem is one of West Virginia's flagship state parks, set on the rim of the Bluestone River Gorge. The park is famous for its aerial tramway, which carries guests 3,000 feet down into the canyon to a second lodge perched beside the river.
The park is a full resort, with two lodges, cabins, a campground, an 18-hole golf course, indoor and outdoor pools and a wide network of trails, including routes to the gorge floor and its waterfalls. Theaters and nature programs round out the offerings.
Because it sits on the rim, Pipestem delivers big views without a strenuous hike, and its central location makes it an easy add-on to a New River Gorge or southern highlands road trip.
Bramwell & Princeton
Princeton
The county seat and main commercial center, Princeton offers local restaurants, the Princeton Railroad Museum and easy access to the Glenwood Park recreation area and the East River.
Pinnacle Rock, Camp Creek & the Great Outdoors
Pinnacle Rock State Park is built around a dramatic sandstone tower that rises from the ridge top, with a short trail and overlooks looking out over the rugged valley below. It is a quick, high-reward stop for photographers and road-trippers.
Camp Creek State Park and Forest, just off I-77, offers a gentler outdoor escape with waterfalls, swimming, fishing, trails and both developed and primitive camping in a forested mountain setting.
Together with Pipestem and the Bluestone River, these parks give Mercer County a surprisingly deep menu of hiking, fishing, paddling and camping close to the interstate.
Getting to Mercer County
Mercer County is reached via Interstate 77 and US Route 460, roughly 90 minutes south of Charleston and just over the Virginia border from Wytheville. The drive across the highlands is scenic throughout.
Related Guides
Mercer County FAQ
What is Mercer County WV known for?
Pipestem Resort State Park, the historic coal town of Bramwell, Bluefield's mountain setting and high elevation, and Pinnacle Rock State Park.
Is Pipestem good for families?
Yes. The tramway, pools, golf, easy overlook trails and range of lodges and cabins make it one of the most family-friendly parks in the state.
Can you tour the Bramwell mansions?
Yes. Several of the historic homes and the old bank are open for tours on select days, and the town's compact size makes it easy to walk the main street.
How far is Mercer County from the New River Gorge?
About 50 to 60 minutes north via I-77 and US-19. Many travelers pair southern highlands attractions with a New River Gorge visit on the same trip.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel publication devoted to the Mountain State. We cross the state to bring you detailed, trustworthy guides to its counties, parks and small towns. Read our story →