Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park spreads across roughly 10,100 acres of the Greenbrier River Valley, making it the largest park in the West Virginia state system. Most of its roads, cabins, and trails were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, and that Depression-era craftsmanship still defines the park's character.

The name "Watoga" is often translated as "river of the floating canoes," a nod to the Greenbrier River that forms the park's western boundary. The Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile converted rail line, runs through the park and is one of the best long-distance biking and walking paths in the East.

In 2021, Watoga was designated an International Dark Sky Park — the first in West Virginia — recognizing its exceptionally dark night skies. Together with nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield and Calvin Price State Forest, the area is a premier destination for stargazing in the eastern United States.

Watoga maintains around 40 miles of trails, ranging from easy lake loops to long ridge walks.

Ann Bailey Trail — a moderate loop named for the legendary frontier scout, passing through quiet hardwood forest with occasional overlooks.

Brooks Memorial Arboretum Trail — an easy interpretive walk through a labeled collection of native trees and shrubs.

Honeybee Trail — a short, family-friendly path near the lake and picnic areas.

Island Lick Trail — a longer route climbing away from the river valley for forest views.

Greenbrier River Trail — not a hiking trail in the traditional sense, but a level, graded 78-mile path ideal for walking, running, and cycling.

Watoga's CCC-era cabins are the park's signature lodging — sturdy chestnut and pine structures built in the 1930s, now modernized with kitchens, baths, and fireplaces. There are more than 30 cabins, from one-bedroom retreats to larger family units, plus a restaurant at the park office area.

Two campgrounds serve tent and RV campers. Riverside Campground sits along the Greenbrier River with electric hookups, while Beaver Creek Campground offers a more wooded setting. Both have bathhouses with hot showers.

Because of the dark sky status, camping at Watoga is especially rewarding for photographers and astronomers who want the Milky Way overhead.

Watoga Lake is stocked with trout and also holds warm-water species, making it a relaxing place to cast from shore or a small boat. The Greenbrier River adds miles of river fishing for smallmouth bass and other species. A West Virginia fishing license is required.

The park's outdoor swimming pool is a summer highlight, typically open from late May through early September. Watoga Lake is not a swimming lake — use the pool instead.