The best camping near Coopers Rock State Forest

It’s impossible to overstay your welcome at Coopers Rock, the state park that got its name from the legend of a famous fugitive who turned his hidden nook of the forest into a barrel workshop! Not to worry, the 12,713 acres of lush timber are fugitive-free these days, though a day hike through the nearby labyrinth of rocks and cliffs at Cheat River Gorge offers a panorama view so damn stunning it might just be illegal. Come in June, for trails abloom with rhododendron and mountain laurel; an observant eye might just spot an owl, fox or deer as well. For hikers that seek variety above all, Coopers Rock is the cream of the crop with trails that bend across mountain ridges and valleys, twist along creeks, and wind through rocky boulders and tall cliffs. Henry Clay Iron Furnace Trail is exactly what you’d expect—a wooded trail that sends you back in time to the 1800s, when this stone furnace was used to produce iron. When you just can’t bear to leave Coopers Rock, head to the Overlook Trading Post for a souvenir and one last picnic over the awe-inspiring gorge.

The ideal time to visit Coopers Rock State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage presents a spectacular display of colors. Summer offers a full bloom of activities, though it can be quite warm. Winters are less crowded but prepare for chilly temperatures and limited access to some areas of the park.

• Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for seasonal changes in the forest.
• Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your visit accordingly.
• Stay on marked trails to preserve the natural habitat and ensure your safety.
• Remember to pack out your trash and leave no trace to maintain the park's beauty.
• Accessibility varies across the park, so inquire ahead if you require special accommodations.