National parks in West Virginia

West Virginia has eight National Park Service units. These parks offer depth and adventure. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides world-class hiking, camping, and dark skies. It sits above one of the continent’s oldest rivers. Most other units are in the state’s eastern part and along its rivers. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park follows the Potomac. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park combines Civil War and abolitionist history in a striking river junction. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail also passes through, tracing the spine of the Appalachians. Additional units include Bluestone National Scenic River and Gauley River National Recreation Area. These areas focus on water-based activities and family trips, away from large crowds or visitor centers. West Virginia suits those seeking genuine wildness, historical significance, and a destination that still requires some effort to get to.