State Parks and Forests
Our state parks offer a variety of experiences, from history to recreation. Take in the scenic beauty of Watoga State Park, West Virginia’s largest state park, step back in time at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park or explore the fascinating rock formations at Beartown State Park. Ride a steam-powered locomotive through the mountains at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park or follow miles of riverside beauty at the Greenbrier River Trail State Park.
For those seeking quieter, more remote escapes, our two state forests provide just that. Seneca State Forest features mountain biking and hiking trails, fishing on Seneca Lake and rustic cabins — all beneath a canopy of stars. Calvin Price State Forest invites quiet reflection with undeveloped landscapes, perfect for stargazing, birdwatching and spotting wildlife.
Monongahela National Forest
Pocahontas County is home to nearly one-third of the Monongahela National Forest — the largest national forest in West Virginia. Here, over 400 miles of trails are open to hikers, bikers and equestrians. Some of the county’s most cherished destinations are tucked within the Mon (as the locals call it), including Falls of Hills Creek, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, Highland Scenic Highway, Buffalo Lake, Gaudineer Scenic Area, West Fork Trail and various campsites where you can fully unplug and reconnect with nature.
Handley Wildlife Management Area
Just eight miles from Marlinton, the Handley Wildlife Management Area offers another way to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can fish in the lake, hike wooded trails, hunt in-season or set up camp and spend the night surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the mountains.
Prepare For Your Time Outdoors
We ask that all visitors follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to help protect the natural beauty of our parks and public lands. Before heading out, check with the U.S. Forest Service and West Virginia State Parks for the latest safety information and user updates. Additionally, we encourage all Pocahontas County visitors to sign up for local emergency alerts and weather notifications by texting “Join911alerts” to 31002.
Contact information for the two U.S. Forest Service offices in Pocahontas County:
Marlinton Ranger District
304-799-4334
1103 Cemetery Road, Marlinton, West Virginia 24954
Greenbrier Ranger District
304-456-3335
7409 Staunton Parkersburg Turnpike, Bartow, West Virginia 24920