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West Virginia
121

West Virginia State Parks

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USA Parks
West Virginia
Metro Valley Region
Kanawha State Forest
Kanawha State Forest Kanawha State Forest © Jason Vickers
Located just seven miles south of Charleston, West Virginia, Kanawha State Forest is in close proximity to the heavily populated Kanawha Valley and is a recreational haven. Some of the states most popular picnic areas are here, along with significant hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing opportunities. A playground attracts families during the summer season and the fully equipped campground is one of the few in the Charleston area. The 9,300-acre forest is noted among naturalists for its diverse wildflower and bird populations. Rich cove forest sites provide nesting habitat for 19 species of wood warblers, a feature which draws birders from as far away as Canada.
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KANAWHA STATE FOREST
KANAWHA STATE FOREST
Rt. 2 Box 285
Charleston, West Virginia   25314

Phone: 304-558-3500
Toll Free: 800-225-5982
Email: park email button icon
Located just seven miles south of Charleston, West Virginia, this forest's close proximity to the heavily populated Kanawha Valley has made it a recreational haven. Some of the state's most popular picnic areas are here, along with significant hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing opportunities. Kanawha's swimming pool and playground attract families during the summer season, and the fully equipped campground is one of the few in the Charleston area.

The 9,300-acre forest is noted among naturalists for its diverse wildflower and bird populations. Rich cove forest sites provide nesting habitat for 19 species of wood warblers, a feature which draws birders from as far away as Canada.
History of the Area
- In the early 1900s, logging activities were prominent in the area around Kanawha State Forest. Many timber companies operated in the region, causing deforestation and damage to the land.

- In 1923, the West Virginia Conservation Commission was established to address these ecological concerns. The commission aimed to protect the state's natural resources, and one of its initiatives was the creation of state forests.

- Kanawha State Forest was officially established in 1937. Its primary purpose was to restore the forested landscape, support wildlife conservation, and provide recreational opportunities for the public.

- The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in the development of Kanawha State Forest. From 1933 to 1942, CCC workers were assigned to the forest, where they constructed numerous facilities, such as roads, trails, cabins, and picnic areas. The CCC's work greatly contributed to the forest's infrastructure.

- During World War II, Kanawha State Forest was temporarily repurposed. It served as a recreational area for soldiers stationed at Camp Kanawha, a military camp adjacent to the forest.

- Over the years, Kanawha State Forest has undergone various expansions and improvements. The addition of adjoining land and the acquisition of private properties have expanded the forest's size and protected more natural habitats.

- Today, Kanawha State Forest spans approximately 9,300 acres and offers a wide array of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, picnicking, and cross-country skiing, among other activities.

- The forest also serves as an important educational and research site, providing opportunities for nature study and scientific exploration.
Camping
Overnight visitors enjoy the forest's 46-site, fully equipped camping area. The campground is served by two bathhouses and coin-operated laundry facilities. All sites have fireplaces and picnic tables. In addition, 25 sites feature electricity and water hookups. Firewood and ice are available. A dump station is available for campground guests.

The campground is open from mid-April to the end of October (weather permitting). Only one tent or trailer is allowed per site and check-out time is 12 noon. An attendant is on duty from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily. Campers may select a site that is not taken or reserved and the attendant will stop by and register you.

Reservations are only being accepted for periods that include a major holiday, two day minimum.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
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Swimming
The popular swimming pool opens to visitors on Memorial Day weekend and closes for the season on Labor Day.
Fishing
Properly licensed individuals are welcome to hunt or fish in-season, in specified areas. No hunting zones surround all forest recreational facilites. Fishing opportunities are available at the two-acre Ellison Pond. Fishing is restricted to children 10 years of age and under and Class Q license holders from March 1 through May 31. The remainder of the year is open to anyone properly licensed. The pond is stocked with trout, bass and bluegill. Other neaby fishing areas include: Kanawha River, Ridenour Park, Coonskin Park and Wine Cellar Park.


Location
Kanawha State Forest is located near Charleston, Elkview and Hurricane

Trails
More than 25 miles of trails provide a challenge for even the serious hiker. Included is "The Spotted Salamander" trail, a paved, level walkway with braille interpretive nature stations designed for both visually impaired and physically challenged guests. Click Here for hiking trail descriptions.
Area Attractions
West Virginia State Capitol complex

West Virginia Governor's Mansion

Culture Center with State Museum

Capitol Market (WV produce, vendors and more)"Mountain Stage" live radio show

The Clay Center and Avampato Discovery Museum

Tri-State Greyhound Park and Casino

Charleston Town Center Mall

Southridge Shopping complex

South Charleston, W.Va. Ice Skating complex

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 29 Great Place To Escape by Jennifer_B
park review stars; one to five Kanawha State Forest is a great place to camp, mountain bike and hike. --The pool has been closed for years. The headquarters/gift shop are now in the former pool complex. --There are at least twice as many trails as mentioned here. --A wheelchair-accessible playground has been added next to the Spotted Salamander Trail.
April 4 2 RV Women having fun fun by Sue and Sharon
park review stars; one to five a great park for RV camping 28ft. outstand camp host/ park very clean Aug 2009
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Area Cabins and Lodges
Marriott Hotels Resorts
200 Lee St E
Charleston, WV
(304) 345-6500
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Cottages and Cabins
Deluxe Log Cabins Rental, Tree Houses rental and Glamping Yurts cabins. All located a a remote scenic wooded area, near the New River national River and Gauley River National recreational area. Only 10 minutes from the New River Gorge Bridge Each cabin has a Hot tub and 3 cabins have a Red Heart Shaped Jacuzzi tub and gas fireplaces - Great for Romantic Get-a-Ways.
36.5 miles from park*

Directions
From I-64 in Charleston, take Exit 58A, drive south on US 119. Turn left onto Oakwood Rd. at the second stop light, (following the brown and white routing signs)go 3/4 mile and take a left before George Washington High School continuing on Oakwood Road, turn right onto Bridge Rd., and right onto Connell Rd. At the bottom of Connell, make a sharp left onto Kanawha Forest Drive, follow to the forest entrance.

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West Virginia
121

West Virginia State Parks

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