West Virginia Blackwater Falls State Park
The water in this gorgeous park isn't exactly black, but it is an interesting shade and only one of the many attractions
Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the falls of the Blackwater River whose amber-colored waters plunge five stories then twist and tumble through an eight-mile long gorge. The "black" water is a result of tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls are one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia.
Make Blackwater Falls a Mother’s Day Tradition
Sunday, May 10 is Mother’s Day and beginning at 1 p.m. a wonderful Dinner Buffet begins. The cost is $15.95 per person with children ages 10 and under dining free. Buffet entrees include: roasted turkey, spiral ham, baked Tilapia, pot roast, assorted desserts and more. Reservations are recommended.
Blackwater Falls offers a seasonal variety of overnight packages. Take advantage of a Cross-Country Ski, Stay & Play Package or a Cozy Cabin Getaway.
Accommodations
Lodge Rooms:
Blackwater Lodge sits on the canyon's south rim, providing a sweeping view of the densely forested gorge. Each of the 54 air-conditioned guest rooms has a private bath, phone and color television. The lodge also features a game room and a sitting room with a cozy fireplace. The new 200-seat Harr Conference Center and indoor pool make Blackwater Lodge a comfortable retreat in a mountain setting.
Cabins:
Situated in a lovely wooded area about one mile from the lodge are 26 deluxe year-round vacation cabins. They are all made with handsome wood-paneled walls, stone fireplaces and forced air furnaces for year-round comfort. Each cabin has a bath with shower and is completely furnished.
Blackwater Falls State Park offers three (3) pet friendly cabins available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please call for details.
Campground:
Blackwater Campsite The 65-unit tent and trailer campground has individual sites with centrally located hot showers, Laundromat and dumping station. A total of 30 sites have electric hookups. The campground is open from the last weekend in April through October 31annually with a maximum camping period of two weeks. Reservations are accepted for 20 of Blackwater Falls' campsites from Memorial Day through Labor Day. In addition to the usual fee, a $5 handling fee will be charged. Your advanced reservations will be secured with VISA, Maser Card, American Express or Diners Club. Reservations are recommended during summer months. Please call 1-800-CALL-WVA, M-F/ 8am-4pm,and we'll be glad to help you with your plans.
Amenities
Restaurant
Fine Dining The lodge restaurant is open daily year round and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving the best regional fare, where "the dining rivals the view." A well-rounded menu is available and buffets are offered during peak seasons and holiday weekends. The restaurant can cater banquets, receptions and barbecues for special groups such as business meetings, family reunions and weddings.
Indoor Pool
A great place to relax for a swim, unwind in the hot tub or work out in the fitness room, equipped with treadmills, bikes and additional exercise equipment. Open 10 AM to 10 PM daily, this is a welcome addition to the comfortable accommodations at Blackwater Falls State Park. This facility is for registered Lodge & Cabin guests
Picnic Shelters
Are ideal for reunions, family outings, catered functions, parties, cookouts and are available for reservation during the summer season. Reservations are recommended for summer weekends and holidays.
Gift Shops
Two gift shops are located on Blackwater Falls State Park. The Lodge Gift Shop is open daily, year round. The Trading Post is located at the Falls parking area and is also open daily year round. Both gift shops offer a variety of souvenirs, T-shirts, toys, jewelry, West Virginia Glass and other items.
Special Features
Elakala Falls - The waters of Shay Run reach the Blackwater Canyon's edge and cascade down the canyon's wall as Elakala Falls. A short walk along the Elakala Trail from the Lodge will take hikers over the upper section of Elakala Falls.
Recreation
Cross Country Skiing - Over ten miles of park trails can be enjoyed bySki the Trail beginning as well as more experienced cross country skiers. Many of these are groomed and maintained specifically for cross country skiing. A full service cross country ski center offers ski lessons and equipment rental. The Sled Run & Cross Country Ski Center are open from mid-December through March 15th.
Sledding - The sledding hill is one-quarter mile long and sledders get to the top by a rope tow, available on weekends when snows are sufficient. The hill and tow area are groomed and maintained for sledding. Sleds are available for rent at the cross country ski center. The Sled Run & Cross Country Ski Center are open from mid-December through March 15th.
Hiking - The park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails.Hike a Trail Map and trail guides are available which will assist guests in planning a hike of the right length and duration.
Nature and Recreation Programs - The park naturalist offers a variety of programs on the park's natural and cultural history. Also, programs and tours can be arranged for groups. These are available year round. Call ahead to 1-800-CALL-WVA and ask to speak to Blackwater Falls Naturalists.
Nature Center - The Nature Center is open daily from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. The Nature Center offers displays, programs and information on the park's natural resources.
Boating and Games - Boating is offered at Pendleton Lake from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day. Game courts aPeddle Boat Funnd equipment such as tennis, volleyball and basketball are also available during the summer months. Come enjoy the waters of Pendleton Lake, beginning Memorial Day Weekend. Daily 10AM - 6PM.
Swimming - Blackwater Lodge has a small indoor pool for registered Lodge and Cabin Guests. Registered Campground guests may use the pool for a nominal fee. At nearby Canaan Valley Resort, a large outdoor heated pool is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. Pendleton Lake no longer offers outdoor swimming.
Fishing - The Blackwater River is stocked weekly with trout from early spring through early summer. The section of the Blackwater River that runs through the park is a catch and release area. It is stocked regularly with trout. Fishing is also allowed at Pendleton Lake. Proper license and stamps are required.
