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Bruceton Mills, WV

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Coopers Rock State Forest

4.7 (54 reviews)

Coopers Rock State Forest Photos

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Rob B.

One of the most beautiful places in WV! I've been coming here since I was a kid and I always enjoy it for all that it is. It's a great place to have a picnic or cookout. The hiking and mtb trails are great. The camping is great. They have a nice gift shop that also has your basic odds and ends that you might need while camping or hiking. The views from Raven Rock and the Overlook are captivating. There is a lot to see here including caves and wild animals. This is a beautiful place in all regards and I hope you get to enjoy it as much as I have over the years. Have fun and be safe :)

Chelsea W.

Great view. We did a short stop on our way home. It's a quick walk to the point from the parking area, wheelchair accessible too. Looking forward to coming back for some hikes maybe a camping trip?

David F.

A beautiful spot with spectacular views. Almost heaven! We arrived on a wonderful sunny day. Easy walk to the viewpoint.

Troy B.

Very nice State Park located near Morgantown. We stopped on Saturday to see the Coopers Rock Overlook (Named after a fugitive Barrel Maker (Cooper) that supposedly hid out here while being pursued by the law). The overlook was easy to reach from the parking lot, and had a fantastic view. The overlook itself is built upon the rock and it surrounded by fencing (Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the depression) to keep people from falling off. The rock itself is also slightly angled, so it might be hard for some people to walk down. There is a cool trail that goes under the rock called the "Underlook" and that was not an easy hike because of all the rocks (some that needed traversing), but it was worth seeing in my opinion. Cheers!

View of Morgantown in the distance.
Gilbert G.

In June 2023, our family made a road stop here on a drive from Washington DC to Morgantown, WV. This is a must-stop destination for quick views and a chance to stretch your legs. It will add about 30 minutes to your trip. We did not have enough time to check out the Raven Rock Trail. The main Cooper's Rock overlook is easily accessible from the parking lot and provides gorgeous views of the valley below. Second, it's close to I-68 (few minutes drive south of the freeway). Third, you can admire the results of work by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.

Samantha R.

This is an amazing state forest for camping and hiking! I've stayed at the Rhododendron camp site and loved it. The bathroom is really clean and well maintained. There's a good amount of space between campsites too. The only downside of being over in this campsite versus the McCollum campsite is you have to drive to McCollum to access showers and a sink to clean your dishes. But in comparing both camp sites, Rhodedendron has more shade and is overall quieter. The park itself is so well maintained too. There's a great playground for kiddos, an awesome gift shop with ice cream and other snacks and goodies and tons of well maintained trails. This spot is awesome!!

Coopers rock Morgantown Wv
Lewis B.

Coopers rock is one of the coolest places I've ever visited got to see the sunset here it's a sight to see for sure

Always a beautiful spot to take in some fresh air.
Mariam W.

I've visited this spot twice, a few years apart in time. I have never hiked here or stayed longer than 20 minutes. The big scenic overlook of the Cheat River canyon is a very short walk from a parking lot - a perfect rest stop for the weary traveler needing to stretch their legs and re-energize. This time we also pushed our daughter in the toddler swings at the playground near the parking lot. If you live in the Morgantown area you have a gem right next to you - I imagine the camping is peaceful. Love all the rhododendrons growing in this area - just need to stop by when they are in bloom in the late Spring / early Summer.

Underlook Trail
Natalie H.

Amazing views, geological sites, and hiking trails. The main overlook and the trails nearby the overlook rock formation are incredible. It was convenient how these main sites were all close together and pretty easily accessible from the parking and gift shop area. The main downside was the bathrooms. I don't expect much from state park restroom facilities, but the stalls at Cooper's Rock were very weird and only came up 4 feet from the ground, so adults could easily look over the top. Very awkward and unpleasant. We also hiked the Ravens Rock trail, which afforded another incredible overlook view at the end - it terminates along a power line path, so the trees are cut away for great views. The trail wasn't steep or challenging, but the surface was very rocky which made for rough walking. Do not attempt if you don't have good boots.

Signage
Marissa C.

What a beautiful forest! We headed up to enjoy the famous Coopers Rock Overlook, which gives a lovely view of the Cheat River Gorge. The rock formations that make up the "deck" are fascinating in their own right, and the bridge, stone steps, and railings that help with access and safety on it were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s/early 1940s. Then, of course, there is the view, which includes the forest and river. There were also a lot of large birds flying overhead that were interesting to see. The walk to the overlook from the parking lot is not far, which also means you are close to other amenities including a playground, a couple of shelterhouses, benches in the shade, and the Trading Post. There are a lot of trail options available, and we also saw several rattlesnake crossing signs. A great view that's worth a stop even just to enjoy the overlook!

Tiffany Y.

Cooper's Rock State Forest is a beautiful place for outdoor activities. We came for the hiking and gorgeous views, but you can also camp, fish, etc. There are short trails and extended hikes, and some of the trails are definitely rockier than I expected! We loved the Raven Rocks hike. But overall this park is a great day or weekend trip (or longer!)

Coopers Rock State Forest
Anshita S.

Nice area to spend a few hours at. They have various spots for picnic and various trails at varied difficulty levels. We visited on a friday morning during labor day weekend and the weather was just perfect. There were very few people as well. We were not in a mood to hike but to just have a relaxing walk. So we took the Roadside trail. It is a out and back trail. Even though at times you could see and hear the cars, it was mostly a very peaceful walk. Not sure if people would have the same experience on busy summer days. They also have a lovely scenic overlook that you can literally drive to. You just have to walk a few steps and you are at the overlook. We were fortunate to have the entire overlook to ourselves for over 10 minutes. Lovely place to spend a few hours of your day.

Rumit P.

A group of friends and I stayed at Little Bear's Den in Deep Creek Lake Maryland and about 30 minutes from the lake is this state forest, across the state line. The walk to the views is about 1 minute on relatively flat but uneven stone terrain. You don't have to toil or hike to get to them. There was no cost, and the visitors center was under construction. There was plenty of parking during the day on a weekday in mid-July and very few others so it was nice getaway. We hiked one of the shorter trails that went down and around Coopers Rock (it's not paved or cleared out very well, and navigation is a bit difficult) but then got spooked by a woman who stated that she and her two toddler daughters encountered a rattlesnake (we didn't, luckily). If you can find it, there's a small cave under Coopers Rock that is markedly cooler (but expectedly pitch black). I would consider coming back here when it's not so hot and attempt one of the longer trails.

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1 year ago

Been there last week loved it. The atmosphere was nice and pretty. the roads were pretty narrow while going deep in make sure to drive safe.

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5 years ago

Winter xc skiing is the best time up there! If you're hiking, stay off the tracks!!! (PLEASE!) ;)

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7 years ago

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4 years ago

Wonderful trails and beautiful views. There's a wide variety of well kept trails and a great play set for the kiddos.

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Review Highlights - Coopers Rock State Forest

“But it was a short 5 minute walk out to the overlook so it was easy to get back to a different trail.”

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All Earth Eco Tours - Time for You (and your child too!) Tuesdays

All Earth Eco Tours

4.3(6 reviews)
20.3 mi

My family and I recently went on a kayaking tour with All Earth Eco Tours, and it was an incredible…read moreexperience from start to finish. Our guide, Oliver, was knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about the environment and the Savage River Reservoir. He made us feel relaxed and welcomed, including my daughter's cutout of "Flat Stanley", who came along for the adventure. Oliver shared numerous insights about the history, wildlife, and ecosystem of the reservoir. The setting itself is absolutely stunning--peaceful, remote, and surrounded by pristine forest. The calm, glassy water made for an easy paddle, perfect for all skill levels, especially for our 7 yo daughter, who joined in a tandem kyack. We saw herons, turtles, and even a hawk soaring overhead. We heard woodpeckers also. The local eagles were not active when we went out, but that didn't lessen the experience. Oliver made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe, as we paddled out and back. This tour is the perfect way to unwind. I can't recommend it highly enough--no matter your skill level, kayaking the Savage River Reservoir with All Earth Eco Tours is a must-do when visiting the Deep Creek Lake area. Thank you, Oliver, for such a memorable day!

So unhappy with this business. We called and tried to schedule a tour over the weekend. They…read morecouldn't be bothered to call us back. If they were full, they could have just said that rather than ignoring us.

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All Earth Eco Tours - Book a private group Yoga to You session today!

Book a private group Yoga to You session today!

All Earth Eco Tours - Hooray for summer! Now booking Yoga to You and all of our fantastic programs! Call today! 301-746-4083

Hooray for summer! Now booking Yoga to You and all of our fantastic programs! Call today! 301-746-4083

All Earth Eco Tours - Yoga to You. No socks or shoes required.

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Yoga to You. No socks or shoes required.

Woodstock Tower - It's quite a way down - don't fall!

Woodstock Tower

4.9(15 reviews)
89.9 mi

Great place with great views!…read more Pop "Woodstock Tower" into Google Maps, and it will take you to the right spot (Apple Maps only took me to the trailhead a distance away). This will put you near a little overlook off the dirt road or if you keep going, a small gravel parking lot. Be prepared to drive on dirt and gravel roads for over a mile to get here; you are going the right way! This end of the trail has a clearly marked sign saying it is the Woodstock Tower. From either of those parking lots it's only about ¼ mile walk to get to the tower. The path varies from rocky to flat dirt. Loads of hickory nuts line the path. You could also come from the other end of the trail, which is over a mile away in the other direction. The climb up is steep but manageable (I'd recommend being more careful descending!) with metal steps. Considering she's still standing 90 years after her construction, I'd say the tower is stable. Hats off to the Civilian Conservation Corps for building this lasting landmark! The views from the top are great and worth the short walk and short climb. I met a local man at the top who shoots a lot of videos from up there. He did warn that sometimes there are black bears in the area; I never saw one my whole time, but just keep alert. It was a little cold on the mid-October day we were there and the top of the mountain did mean lots of cross wind, so dress appropriately. Unless you're weird about heights (apologies to my wife; thanks for walking out to it with us, Baby), this is a worthwhile visit. Definitely recommend!

What a pleasant surprise! We drove up the mountain on Christmas Eve and simply enjoyed the views…read more Our goal of finding the tower wasn't easy being that my bf hadn't been up there since he was a kid. Nevertheless we found it :-) I was a bit apprehensive of climbing it at first but took baby steps lol. What a beautiful scenery once you reach the top. Great experience!

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Woodstock Tower - My wife's scared of heights, so she waited at the bottom for us.

My wife's scared of heights, so she waited at the bottom for us.

Woodstock Tower - Stunning vistas - Eastern side

Stunning vistas - Eastern side

Woodstock Tower - Pretty easy trail

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Pretty easy trail

Valley Falls State Park

Valley Falls State Park

5.0(18 reviews)
24.4 mi

Tony and I went for a nice hike today at Valley Falls State Park in Fairmont WV…read more The Park is lovely and the Park is free to enjoy with plenty of picnic tables, restrooms, grills, playground, and the gorgeous waterfalls

Valley Falls State Park. Fairmont, WV. My husband and I visited this scenic West Virginia State…read morePark in Sept, 2025. Its highlight is a series of four cascading WATERFALLS on the Tygart Valley River that are easily accessible by a short path from the parking lot. There are large flat rocks right next to the falls, allowing for scenic photographs but no swimming. (Fishing with license and whitewater kayaking are allowed). Fun Fact: this is one of the sites for West Virginia's "Almost Heaven" swings, installed by the state's Department of Tourism across the state for photo opps. This particular swing has the falls in the background. (As of late 2025, there are 51 swings in the state). We had a unique experience at the park in that we were approached by a park volunteer in an ATV offering us a ride down to the falls, and then continuing along some park paths with his commentary about the history of the site as a 19th-century mill town, and pointing out some gristmills. Both park admission and the ATV ride were free although we did give the volunteer a tip. There are 18 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, ranging from easy to difficult. We didn't do any hiking on this visit, but did eat our picnic lunch at one of the conveniently located picnic table. There is a gift shop on-site, as well as clean restrooms. It's also a site on WV's Waterfalls Trail, wherein you can earn prizes for checking it at specific WV waterfalls. Note that this is a day-use park, so no camping is allowed. Wi-Fi connectivity is low to non-existent. We approached the park from the south, near Pruntytown, WV, and while the distance was short (about 12 miles), it took us about 25 minutes to reach because of curvy roads. On our return, we went to Tygart Lake State Park, via Grafton, where we camped for the night.

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Valley Falls State Park
Valley Falls State Park
Valley Falls State Park

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Great Allegheny Passage

Great Allegheny Passage

4.8(4 reviews)
54.5 mi

A friend and I rode the Great Allegheny Trail from Myersdale, PA down to Cumberland, MD. It was a…read more33 mile ride overall, but we really enjoyed it. Now, neither of us are Lance Armstrong wanna-bes. We're old farts riding plain bikes. From Myersdale, the first 9 miles is uphill, but since it's an old railroad, it's a very gentle uphill slope. The highlight of this part of the trip was riding across the Keystone Viaduct. On our uphill leg, our average speed was 8.0 mph (from my GPS). At the end of the 9 miles uphill, we arrived at the Eastern Continental Divide. From there, it's ALL downhill all the way to Cumberland. We overheard someone else on the trail say that on the downhill side, "you don't need pedals, all you need are brakes." My GPS said our average speed during the downhill leg was 13 mph. There are a few spots along the way you could get on the trail and just do the downhill portion. We saw some families with kids doing the downhill portion, too. As an alternative, you can ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad from Cumberland up to Frostburg, then ride your bikes from Frostburg 16 miles back down the hill to Cumberland. Lesson learned: We had planned to stop and have lunch in Frostburg, MD. When we arrived in Frostburg, we found there was a nice rest area for bicyclists along the side of the trail with maps of the town, park benches, bicycle racks, and port-a-potties. Unfortunately, the path goes by at the BOTTOM of the side of the hill that Frostburg is on. In order to go into town for lunch, we would have had to either bike or hike half a mile UP a steep hill. We decided not to do that. We just ate snacks that we had packed in our backpacks and continued onward to Cumberland. The scenery was beautiful. There were three long tunnels to go through. Each tunnel was either short enough it didn't need to be lit up because you could see light from either side, or had installed lighting (the Big Savage Tunnel was really long but well-lit inside). The trail is well marked with mile markers along the way so you can tell how far you are from Cumberland, MD. The trail ends right in downtown Cumberland next to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad train station and right where the C&O Canal Towpath begins. We had a great time and I would love to come back here and do the downhill portion with my kids sometime. I think we might try the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad 1-way trip up to Frostburg then ride our bikes down the hill. Side note: Why do I give it 4 stars instead of 5? Only because I try to reserve my 5 star ratings for restaurants that are truly spectacular, and I don't want to inflate my average grade with a rating for a bike trail. :-)

We did it! My husband Rick & I biked the 130+ miles of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail between…read moreCumberland, MD & McKeesport, PA! I'm sore now! We'd been planning this trip for years as we are avid bike trail riders, and it's been our goal to bike the entire extant length of the trail. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Great Allegheny Passage, it's the ultimate in rails-to-trails conversions. It occupies the roadbeds of several abandoned rail lines including the Western Maryland, the B&O, and the P&LE. It connects with the C&O Towpath in Cumberland, and it's planned to connect with the present South Side/Three Rivers Heritage Trail in Pittsburgh. Thus a bike ride all the way from Pittsburgh (Station Square) to Washington, DC will be possible. So my brother Paul drove us down from Pittsburgh to the Canal Heritage Center, a former railway station in Cumberland. This also doubles as the train station for the Western Maryland Scenic Railway. And yes, because my husband's a railfan, I've ridden their trains. We arrived in Cumberland in the afternoon and from the Canal Heritage Center, we set out for the initial 17 miles to Frostburg. Because we had to carry overnight bags and our food supplies (I'm a type-1 diabetic) we borrowed some kiddie trailers from a friend. Rick carried the overnight bags and I carried the coolers. The initial ride from Cumberland to Frostburg is also the steepest. The Great Allegheny Passage rises from an elevation of about 500 feet in Cumberland to about 1600 feet in Frostburg. But the climb isn't that bad as the right-of-way remains an active rail line at this point. It's not like you're climbing Sycamore Street in Pittsburgh or Lombard Street in San Francisco. Here the line follows the Western Maryland Scenic Railway. The State of Maryland had considered forcing the rail line to discontinue so they could build the trail. But then they realized how much money visitors bring into Cumberland and Frostburg because of the train line. The scenic highpoint here is Helmstetter's Curve, where the trail and rail line arc around the Helmstetter farm in a "U" pattern. It's a smaller version of Horseshoe Curve in Altoona. Just beyond that the train line and the trail share Brush Tunnel. The tunnel is lighted, but trail riders are warned not to enter when a train is approaching. The WMSR runs both diesel and steam locomotives. Guess which one we saw? I'll give you a hint--Railfan Rick was slightly disappointed. We arrived in Frostburg and spent the night at the Trail Inn. We set out again the next day and just north of Frostburg, we hit the Borden Tunnel. This tunnel is NOT lighted. You MUST dismount your bike and walk it through. This tunnel is over 900 feet long, so headlights or a working flashlight are recommended. Around milepost 20, we came up to the Mason-Dixon Line, the boundary between MD and PA and the boundary between North and South (read your American history). A 1900 foot bridge connects the two sides. We turned to the north and went thru Big Savage Tunnel. This tunnel is 3,294 feet long, the longest on the GAP. It is lighted, but please take note. The Big Savage Tunnel is CLOSED between late November and early April and there is NO DETOUR route around it. So plan carefully if you intend to bike or hike in the area between those dates. Not long after leaving the Big Savage Tunnel, we came to the highest point on the Great Allegheny Passage at 2392 feet. We'd climbed 1892 feet since leaving Cumberland! A few miles later we hit Deal and from that point, it's all downgrade to McKeesport. Deal has restrooms, if you need to make a pit stop. Continuing northbound we made our way to Sand Patch, PA. Here we crossed the Eastern Continental Divide, marked by a short tunnel, which demarcates two watersheds of the Atlantic Ocean: the Gulf of Mexico watershed and the Atlantic Seaboard watershed. Much of the Great Allegheny Passage parallels the Amtrak Capitol Limited route and I've seen signs marking the divide while riding the train. We'd been following Flaugherty Creek and north of Sand Patch, we crossed the 909 foot long Keystone Viaduct. We made our way into Meyersdale, PA and as this is the largest town en route, we stopped at Food Lion for some supplies including steaks for our dinner tonight. We also made a rest stop here as we've been pedaling for about 20 miles with another 45 to go. Besides, I needed a snack for my blood sugars. Meyersdale was first settled by the Monongahela Indians and has hosted the PA Maple Syrup Festival for the past 60 years. --Continued in Part Two below--

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Great Allegheny Passage - The GAP begins.... This is right in front of the old train station, below the big C &O Canal sign.

The GAP begins.... This is right in front of the old train station, below the big C &O Canal sign.

Great Allegheny Passage
Great Allegheny Passage

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Coopers Rock State Forest - parks - Updated October 2026

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