National Parks in West Virginia
8 NPS units in West Virginia — complete visitor guides with fees, hours, hiking, camping, and seasonal tips.
Visiting National Parks in West Virginia
West Virginia is home to 8 units managed by the National Park Service, ranging from stunning natural areas to historic sites, monuments, and recreation areas. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a multi-week adventure, West Virginia's national parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.
Before your visit, make sure to check current entrance fees, operating hours, and any active alerts — all updated daily on each park's page. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all NPS units and is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple parks in West Virginia.
Other NPS Units in West Virginia
Appalachian
National Scenic Trail
The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190+ mile long public footpath that traverses…
Bluestone
National Scenic River
The Bluestone River and the rugged and ancient gorge it has carved…
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal
National Historical Park
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream…
Chesapeake Bay
Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to…
Gauley River
National Recreation Area
The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of…
Harpers Ferry
National Historical Park
At the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, on the ancestral…
Lewis & Clark
National Historic Trail
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through…
New River Gorge
National Park & Preserve
A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River…
Planning Your West Virginia National Park Trip
- →Best time to visit: Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer the best combination of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds across West Virginia's parks.
- →America the Beautiful Pass: At $80/year, this annual pass covers entrance to all 8+ NPS units in West Virginia and all other NPS units nationwide.
- →Book early: Lodging and campsite reservations at popular parks fill up months in advance. Plan and book as early as possible, especially for summer visits.
- →Check alerts: Road closures, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures can affect your plans. Check each park's page for current alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many national parks are in West Virginia?
West Virginia has 0 designated national parks and 8 total NPS-managed units, including monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites.
What is the best national park to visit in West Virginia?
The best park depends on your interests. Each park offers a unique experience. Browse the parks above to find the one that matches your travel style.
Do I need a pass to visit national parks in West Virginia?
Most NPS units in West Virginia charge an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all of them and is great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 parks.
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.