Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most popular state parks in West Virginia. And it’s for good reason!
Between the incredible vistas of the Blackwater Canyon and the gorgeous waterfalls, not to mention the multiple miles of hiking trails, there are tons of fun things to do at Blackwater Falls State Park.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend getaway, you won’t be bored.
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Prepare For Your Visit to Blackwater Falls State Park
Location
Blackwater Falls State Park is in Davis, WV. It’s less than three hours from major cities like Pittsburgh and Washington, DC, and less than five hours from Philadelphia and Columbus, OH.
Free Entry
West Virginia’s state parks offer FREE entry for all guests!
Best Time to Visit Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is open year-round and is a great destination to visit anytime.
Depending on the time of year, certain activities listed below may not be available, so it’s all about what interests you the most. Of course, the waterfalls are gorgeous, covered in snow and frozen over. But they also look great in spring, full from the snow melt or rains of the season.
Amenities
- Lodging: Blackwater Falls State Park offers accommodation at the Blackwater Lodge and cabins.
- Dining: The Blackwater Lodge features a restaurant, and the Blackwater Trading Post has a snack bar.
- Restrooms: Located throughout the park, including at the Blackwater Lodge, Blackwater Trading Post, and Nordic Center.
Limited Cellular Service
We had about 1-2 bars of service while visiting Blackwater Falls State Park and Davis, WV. There is wifi if you are a guest of the lodge.
Download a Map
Before visiting Blackwater Falls State Park, it’s recommended that you download a map. However, if you forget, you can pick up a map at Blackwater Falls Lodge or Blackwater Falls Trading Post.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember to respect nature as you visit this park. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave the area as you found it.
As these destinations become increasingly popular, we must remain diligent in keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Best Things to Do at Blackwater Falls State Park
Visit Blackwater Falls
Of course, the first main thing to do at Blackwater Falls State Park is to see its namesake waterfall! Blackwater Falls is the tallest waterfall in West Virginia, and the half-mile out-and-back trail makes it easy to see.
The trail is a boardwalk with multiple steps (over 200). Be cautious when visiting in the winter, as the roads may be slippery due to snow and ice.
Get a Photo at the Almost Heaven Swing
Right before you head down to Blackwater Falls, stop and grab a photo at the Almost Heaven Swing! West Virginia has over 30 of these swings across the state as of publication, and they keep adding more!
Take in the View at Pendleton Point Overlook
There are many overlooks of the Blackwater Canyon. The Pendleton Point Overlook is one of the easiest to access and offers views to the south. From here, you can see the Blackwater Lodge and one of the falls along Shays Run.
There are several overlooks at Pendleton Point. The main one features a tower viewer and guard rails. The others are more rocky outcroppings.
Rent a Boat at Pendleton Lake
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you can rent single kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards at Penndleton Lake. It’s a fun way to enjoy the smaller, 8-acre lake.
Rentals are also offered weekends only after Labor Day until the fourth Sunday in October.
Hike to Elakala Falls
Although Blackwater Falls is more impressive, you don’t want to miss hiking down to Elakala Falls. The trail leaves from the Blackwater Lodge.
You’ll reach the bridge over the falls pretty quickly. To get closer to the falls, you’ll have to deviate from the trail a bit. Be careful as you climb down!
Hike to Balanced Rock
After hiking to Elakala Falls, continue along the Balanced Rock Trail to Balanced Rock. It’s not the most impressive balancing rock we’ve seen, but it’s a beautiful hike and still worth seeing!
Take a Ride on the Longest Sled Run on the East Coast
One of the biggest draws to Blackwater Falls State Park is the sled run! At a quarter-mile long, it’s the longest sled run on the East Coast.
The sled run is open mid-December through February. You can also rent cross-country skis and snowshoes at the Nordic Center.
Take in the Sunset at Lindy Point Overlook
One of the best places to see the sunrise or sunset is at the Lindy Point Overlook. The trail to the overlook is approximately 1/3 mile long, and although it features several rocks and roots to navigate, it’s relatively easy.
No matter if you’re at the viewing platform in the early morning or late evening, the view over the Blackwater Canyon can’t be beat!
More to Do Near Blackwater Falls State Park
Ten minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park is Canaan Valley Resort State Park. There, you can golf in the summer months and ski in the winter months! And, of course, hike year-round. Don’t forget to stop and grab a photo at the Almost Heaven Swing there!
You can also hike along the Blackwater Canyon via the Blackwater Canyon Trail to several waterfalls, including Douglas Falls and Albert Falls.
And for a good view, head over to one of the remaining fire towers in the Monongahela National Forest. The Olson Observation Tower has 133 steps to the top and features 360° views of the surrounding area.
Other Great West Virginia State Parks
We’ve had fun exploring some of West Virginia’s state parks and forests. Some of our favorites include Beartown State Park, Lost River State Park, Pinnacle Rock State Park, and Coopers Rock State Forest. All of them offer something unique and beautiful and are worth visiting!
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