A Guide to Blackwater Falls State Park
Nestled in the heart of Tucker County, West Virginia is a place of tranquility and majestic natural wonders. There is a canyon here that is home to breathtaking vistas, year-round recreation, and one of the most iconic waterfalls in the state. Take a ride through quaint towns and over curvy mountain roads to reach this 2,300-acre realm. A place that is quickly becoming one of the most visited in the state, and even if you haven't been there, I can almost guarantee you've at least seen a photograph of its majesty. Park your car and begin down the descending boardwalk, you'll hear the rushing of water before you see its breathtaking beauty. This is Blackwater Falls State Park.
Established in 1837, when the West Virginia Power and Transmission Company donated 446 acres of its land to the West Virginia State Parks System; this park is aptly named after its central feature the Blackwater Falls. The state's tallest waterfall and the park's namesake 57-foot-high cascade of water. Because of the tannin in fallen hemlock and red spruce needles upstream, the water that flows here is tented in such a dark color that it almost appears black. The waterfall also marks the beginning of the 8-mile-long Blackwater Canyon. Some of the most scenic vistas in the state are along the rim of this forested gorge, and it's a breathtaking scene regardless of the time of year.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Blackwater Falls State Park is located less than a half-hour from the Maryland border and about three hours east of Charleston, WV, or three hours west of Washington DC.
The park is open year-round, with plenty of activities to keep you busy all four seasons
There is no entry fee for the State Park
Grab a West Virginia Road map, because you might not have cell service to take you from one location to the next.
Pack your Camera! This state park is home to some of the most photographed spots in West Virginia that are sure to inspire you.
Where to Stay in the State Park:
The Lodge - Recently renovated with 54 rooms to choose from, a pool, and a restaurant. The lodge is probably the best fit for those looking for extra comfort on their trip.
Cabins- There are 39 fully furnished cabins in varying sizes with functioning kitchens, water, TV, and Wi-Fi. The park also has 13 furnished vacation cabins that are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, featuring a washer dryer, gas fireplace, and all the amenities you could want from home.
Tentrr Campsites- I would describe this as "Glamping". The Tentrr Campsites are preset canvas tents with a queen-sized memory foam bed inside. You get the luxury of a comfy bed with the fun of camping!
State Park Campground- Open from late April through the end of October there are 65 total sites here that all have electric hook-up and can accommodate tents and trailers. The campground had a nice bathhouse with hot water showers, laundry, and a water fill/dump station.
Where to Eat in the Local Area:
The Smokehouse- Located at the Lodge within the state park.
Hellbender Burritos- Davis, WV
Mountain State Brewing Co- Thomas, WV (This location is only open Thursday- Sunday, but one of my favorite West Virginia Breweries)
Purple Fiddle - Thomas, WV (Restaurant during the day bar and Music venue at night)
Tip Top Coffee - Thomas, WV (Coffee, baked goods, and small bites)
Best Things to do in the Park:
Home to spectacular vistas, multiple hiking trails, and activities for the whole family, Black Waterfalls state park is one of the gems that makes West Virginia so Wild and Wonderful.
Chase Waterfalls:
The crown jewel of the park, the Black Waterfalls, is only one of 3 waterfalls within the state park borders. The other two Ekalaka Falls and Falls of Pendleton are equally as beautiful and you should definitely check them out if you have the time and capability. To get to the Blackwater Falls, park in the lot at the Trading Post and walk along the boardwalk for several different views of the park's flagship waterfall, just note the boardwalk has over 200 steps. You can also take the Gentle trail on the other side of the canyon for a handicap-accessible trail that takes you to a different viewpoint of the falls. Ekala Falls and The Falls of Pendleton aren't as easily accessible as they involve a hike to reach. The hike to Elakala Falls is only half a mile round trip and actually gives you the opportunity to walk overtip of the waterfalls on a small footbridge. The Pendleton Trace Trail will take you to the Falls of Pendleton and is a bit longer at 1.4 miles round trip. If you're not up to hiking this, you can view the falls from across the canyon at one of the many road pullouts.
Take in the Views:
This state park is known for its breathtaking scenic vistas. Lindy Point, Pendleton Point, and Pase Point are all a must-see when visiting this state park. With an observation deck that sits on the rim of the blackwater canyon, Lindy Point might be one of the most photographed overlooks in the entire state. With a singular and unique rock pillar standing above the rest, this viewpoint will take your breath away no matter the time of year. Keep driving through the park and you'll find one of my favorite spots in the state Pendleton Point, walk a little further down the trail and find Pendleton Overlook. I visited this spot last fall during peak foliage, I had never seen a place so beautiful and it was a true reminder that West Virginia is Almost heaven.
Sled in the Snow:
Just when you think this park has it all, you learn they have the longest sled run on the East Coast! At a quarter of a mile long, riders ride the magic carpet to the top of the run and sled back down just to do it all over again. Make sure to bundle up in your winter weather gear because the Blackwater Falls sled run is a must-do for the whole family! Tickets are required for this activity and are valid for a two-hour session. They can be purchased online unless it's the day of in which case you'll have to try for a walk-in spot. The sled run isn't the only winter activity within the park though there are over 10 miles of cross-country skiing trails within the park, and it's also a great place for snowshoeing.
Other Fun things within the park:
Hiking (There are 20 miles worth of trails in the park)
Biking
Kayaking/Canoeing
Fishing
The Nature Center
Whether you plan on just visiting for the day or having an overnight getaway, there is no denying Blackwater Falls State Park has a beauty that is rare to find. The activities here cater to people of all ages and abilities and are sure to make your trip to this West Virginia State Park a memorable one.
