About The Park
With 8,101 acres of dense forest, Holly River is West Virginia’s second largest state park. Located in a narrow valley in the Mountain Lakes region, the park is surrounded by heavily forested mountains, some reaching more than 2,800 feet in height. The dense forests of Holly River provide guests with a natural setting where they can find peaceful solitude. Recreational opportunities in this park include camping, hiking, swimming and tennis. Amenities include picnic shelters, the Holly River Restaurant and corrals for campers with horses. Holly River State Park is known for a wide range of flora, including wildflowers and ferns.
History
The area now known as Holly River State Park was settled around 1870 by a group of immigrants from Switzerland. After years of the land being stripped of useful timber, the U.S. Department of Agriculture began purchasing land, and in 1937 began reforesting and restoring the area to the deep woodlands enjoyed by visitors today. In 1938, Holly River was designated a wildlife refuge and opened as an official state park, but it wasn’t until 1954 that the federal government deeded the land to the state of West Virginia. Since then, many trails have been blazed, cabins have been refurbished and campsites have been constructed. Other improvements have included the construction of game courts, a swimming pool and other outdoor recreational facilities enjoyed by hundreds of visitors each year.
Accommodations
Cabins
Holly River State Park has 10 completely furnished cabins featuring warm, stone fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances and linens. Cabins are constructed of natural stone and logs located in a peaceful setting of rhododendron and sturdy hemlock. These cabins are set up to accommodate either two or four people and are open seasonally.
Camping
Holly River State Park’s campground has 88 units with electric hookups, picnic tables and cooking grills. A dumping station and four centralized bathhouses with coin-operated washers and dryers are available. Only one tent or trailer is allowed per site and check-in time is noon. West Virginia State Park campground reservations are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. Campgrounds are open on a first-come, first-serve basis through October 31.
Additional Information
Picnicking
Holly River offers seasonal recreation and nature programs and a trout-rearing pond with facilities ideal for picnics and reunions. There are two large pavilions that may be rented by the day. Shelters are reservable up to a year in advance with a picture-perfect trout rearing pond located near the park headquarters. Guests can learn about the many types of trout that are stocked in the park and the importance of protecting them for the generations to come.
Contact Information
680 State Park Rd., Hacker Valley
West Virginia 26222
