10 Ways You Can Give Back During Your Trip To Pocahontas County
Travel is evolving, with more people seeking meaningful, eco-conscious experiences that make a positive impact. In Pocahontas County, West Virginia, we believe in responsible travel — encouraging visitors to volunteer, support local businesses and help preserve our public lands.
Sustainable tourism is more than just a trend — it’s shaping the future of travel. According to Straits Research, travelers in 2025 will prioritize experiences that not only minimize environmental impact but also support local communities and economies. True sustainability goes beyond nature conservation; it’s about engaging with the places you visit in a way that leaves them better than you found them. So, how can you make a difference during your trip? Here are 10 ways to give back while exploring Pocahontas County.
1. Volunteer At An Event
Giving your time to a community event is a rewarding way to give back during your trip! Plus, volunteering lets you experience annual events from a unique perspective.
Exciting opportunities include the Great Greenbrier River Race, a family-friendly triathlon featuring a 3-mile run, a 4-mile kayak or canoe section and a 10-mile bike ride. Volunteers can help at aid stations or shuttle athletes to and from locations. This year’s race takes place on April 26.
Other outdoor events to support include the Monday Lick Celebration, marking the launch of Pocahontas County’s newest mountain biking trail system, as well as upcoming races — Minetana XC Race (May 25), Monday Lick Mountain Bike Race (June 21-22) and Slaty Fork Enduro (August 9-10).
2. Practice Leave No Trace Principles
If you’re exploring the outdoors, following the Leave No Trace principles is essential. As an official Leave No Trace partner, the Pocahontas County CVB encourages visitors to respect our lands, streams and wildlife.
Before your visit, take time to familiarize yourself with these seven principles:
- Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Principle 2: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly
- Principle 4: Leave What You Find
- Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Principle 6: Respect Wildlife
- Principle 7: Be Considerate of Others
3. Get To Work With The U.S. Forest Service
The United States Forest Service (USFS) frequently hosts volunteer events, including trail maintenance and forest clean-up days. These efforts help keep public lands clean and safe for future generations.
Volunteering with the USFS is a great way to connect with nature, meet fellow travelers and give back to the trails you love. Follow the Pocahontas County CVB on Facebook to stay updated on these volunteer opportunities.
4. Help Maintain Local Trails
Beyond volunteering at races, you can help maintain the trails year-round by getting involved with organizations like the Snowshoe Highlands Area Recreation Collaborative (SHARC) and Pocahontas Trails. SHARC works with landowners to develop and implement trail-building and maintenance strategies, ensuring sustainable access for outdoor enthusiasts. Pocahontas Trails, our local International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) chapter, focuses on improving and promoting the county’s trails through community collaboration, working with local organizations to design, repair and build trails. To find volunteer opportunities, check the Pocahontas Trails website or reach out to SHARC directly.
5. Visit Local Attractions
Travelers are seeking deeper connections with the places they visit. The “Sustainable Tourism Market 2025-2029” report reveals that travelers are shifting their preference toward local and authentic experiences.
Pocahontas County is home to many hidden gems and cultural landmarks, from Appalachian heritage sites and historic landmarks to the world’s largest steerable telescope at the Green Bank Observatory. Exploring these unique attractions supports preservation efforts and enriches your experience.
6. Dine Locally
The best way to experience a destination’s culture? Through its food! Pocahontas County’s restaurants serve up Appalachian-inspired dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in home-cooked meals or fresh flavors from local farmers, dining here directly supports small businesses and agricultural producers.
7. Support Local Businesses
Shopping local is one of the easiest ways to contribute to sustainable tourism. Spending money at small businesses, galleries and boutiques ensures your dollars stay within the local economy.
Pocahontas County has incredible local businesses that add character to the region. Whether you’re picking up handcrafted souvenirs or exploring an art gallery, every purchase makes a difference.
8. Attend Cultural Events
Immersing yourself in cultural experiences is a great way to support the local arts and traditions. Events like Yew Mountain Center’s nature workshops and live performances at the Pocahontas County Opera House showcase the region’s creative spirit. Check out our events calendar to find more information about upcoming performances, workshops and festivals.
9. Camp Sustainably
Camping is one of the most eco-friendly lodging choices when done responsibly. Staying at a campground reduces your carbon footprint compared to traditional hotels while allowing you to fully connect with nature.
The campgrounds in Pocahontas County are on protected public lands or locally owned and operated, meaning your stay directly benefits the community. And the best part? You’ll be treated to peaceful night skies free from city lights.
10. Slow Down and Stay Longer
You don’t need months to experience slow travel — just a few extra days can make a big difference. Rather than packing your itinerary to the brim, take your time and enjoy the balance of adventure and relaxation that Pocahontas County offers.
Now that you know how to give back during your trip, it’s time to start planning! Request a free Adventure Guide to explore everything Pocahontas County has to offer.