The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in , Pocahontas County

Beartown State Park is a natural area of 107 acres located on the eastern summit of Droop Mountain, seven miles southwest of Hillsboro, West Virginia. The name Beartown was chosen because local residents claimed that the many cave-like openings in the rocks made ideal winter dens for the black bears of the area. Also, the many deep, narrow crevasses were formed in a somewhat regular criss-cross pattern and appear from above like the streets of a small town. Beartown is noted for its unusual rock formations, which are comprised of Droop, or Pottsville, Sandstone formed during the Pennsylvanian age. Massive boulders, overhanging cliffs, and deep crevasses stir the imagination of most visitors. Pocketing the face of the cliffs are hundreds of eroded pits, ranging from the size of marbles to others large enough to hold two grown men. Ice and snow commonly remain in the deeper crevasses until mid to late summer. Vegetation clings tenaciously to life, sending roots into mere cracks in the rocks.The land was purchased in 1970 with funds from the Nature Conservancy and a donation from Mrs. Edwin G. Polan, in memory of her son, Ronald Keith Neal, who lost his life in the Vietnam War. Development of the park has been minimal in order to preserve the natural attractions of the area. However, basic facilities are provided, and a boardwalk permits easy access. Interpretive signs along the boardwalk guide visitors and provide insights concerning the ecology of the area. The park is open daily from April to October. During the closed winter season foot travel to the boardwalk area is welcome, with parking available at the closed entrance gate. Group tours may be arranged by contacting the Superintendent at nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. No fee is charged to visit Beartown.

The Cranberry Glades botanical area is one of the largest and most botanically significant bogs in the Appalachian Mountains. The Glades resemble an arctic tundra misplaced in these southern mountains. Found here are many of the same rare plants, birds, mammals, and even reindeer moss which are commonly found in bogs of the far north. Enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk and learn about this amazing ecosystem.

Located in the mountains of Pocahontas County, Watoga State Park is West Virginia’s largest state park. With 10,100 acres of land, Watoga is filled with many recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing and boating. Watoga Lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities and is part of the Division of Natural Resources' stocking program. A multipurpose building, museum and observation tower are just a few of the unique attractions at Watoga State Park.

Located in the Greenbrier River Valley north of Lewisburg, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, which links more than 300 historical sites in 16 states. Dedicated in 1928 as West Virginia’s first state park, Droop Mountain is known for its reenactments of the Battle of Droop Mountain, the last major American Civil War conflict in West Virginia. Reenactments occur in October of even-numbered years. The park also provides hiking trails, picnic shelters and play areas for use any time of the year.

Tucked away in a narrow gorge just off the Highland Scenic Highway is a hidden treasure known as the Falls of Hills Creek Scenic Area. This popular 114 acre area contains three waterfalls - 25 feet, 45 feet, and 63 feet. The lower falls, at 63 feet is the second highest waterfall in West Virginia. A three quarter mile trail leads visitors to spectacular views of the three waterfalls as Hills Creek descends 220 feet between the upper and lower falls. The first 1700 feet of trail is a paved, wheelchair accessible path to the upper falls viewing platform. The remainder of the trail is more strenuous with stairways and boardwalks leading to the lower falls. There are 382 stair steps to the lower falls. The complete trip takes about an hour, or longer, if you want to rest often or just enjoy the scenic beauty.

The Science Center remains temporarily closed for COVID 19 restrictions (see greenbankobservatory.org for updates). However our grounds are open for walking tours, docent activities, and seated presentations. See our website for complete schedules and updates.

The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center has many interesting features that appeal to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The exhibit hall features many interactive displays which are both educational and entertaining to young and old alike. The auditorium offers short films on request on topics, such as Smokey Bear Story, Jewels of the Monongahela, Cranberry Glades, wildflowers, and many others. The nature center is host to several popular events during the open season. Kids Night activities include live snake shows, educational programs, magic shows, wildlife presentations, games and visits by Smokey Bear.

The Highland Scenic Highway is a beautiful corridor through Monongahela National Forest. This designated National Scenic Byway extends 43 miles from Richwood to US Route 219, north of Marlinton, WV. It has four developed scenic overlooks. Each site provides a comfortable rest stop, with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Highway traverses the mountainous terrain of the Allegheny Highlands and Plateau, and rises from Richwood, elevation 2,325 feet, to over 4,500 feet along the Parkway. The Highway is a paved two-lane road, designated as State Routes 39 and 150. Rt. 150 is a 23-mile Parkway section that is not maintained in the winter. Travel is discouraged on Rt. 150 between November and March, sometimes April.