Thorny Mountain Fire Tower
Sleep 65 feet up in the only fire tower east of the Mississippi open for overnight stays. Unforgettable views and off-grid tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unique experience year-round
Thorny Mountain Fire Tower
Best Time
Unique experience year-round
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sleep 65 feet up in the only fire tower east of the Mississippi open for overnight stays. Unforgettable views and off-grid tranquility.
"The best place I have ever stayed, amazing views and friendly people!"
🎯 Book a Year Out!
This popular spot books up fast. Plan your trip a full year in advance to guarantee a stay.
📵 Prepare for No Service
Enjoy being off the grid! Cell service is unreliable to non-existent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic 360° Views
Top of the tower
Experience breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of the surrounding mountains and forests. Sunsets and sunrises are spectacular.
Overnight Fire Tower Stay
Thorny Mountain Fire Tower
Sleep 65 feet in the air in the only fire tower east of the Mississippi open for overnight stays. A truly unique adventure.
+1
Seneca State Forest Exploration
Base of the tower
Explore numerous trails, including sections of the Greenbrier River and the Appalachian Trail nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Far in Advance
Embrace the Off-Grid Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Year Out!
This popular spot books up fast. Plan your trip a full year in advance to guarantee a stay.
📵 Prepare for No Service
Enjoy being off the grid! Cell service is unreliable to non-existent.
🍎 Pack All Your Food
No nearby stores or restaurants. Bring everything you need for meals and snacks.
👟 Stairs are a Workout
The 65-foot climb is a good workout, but the views are worth it!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Year Out!
This popular spot books up fast. Plan your trip a full year in advance to guarantee a stay.
📵 Prepare for No Service
Enjoy being off the grid! Cell service is unreliable to non-existent.
🍎 Pack All Your Food
No nearby stores or restaurants. Bring everything you need for meals and snacks.
👟 Stairs are a Workout
The 65-foot climb is a good workout, but the views are worth it!
🔦 Bring a Headlamp
Essential for navigating the tower and surrounding area after dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower for its absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views, especially during sunrise and sunset, and the unique, unforgettable experience of staying overnight high above the forest. The peace and quiet are major draws, offering a true escape. However, the extreme booking demand, lack of cell service, and rustic amenities are points to consider.
"Fantastic views all around. If you go be prepared no cell phone service. No nothing just fabulous views and peace and quiet. If you have not made reservations yet good luck"
Jamie Cutrer
"Was finally able to book a couple overnight stays at the end of last year. This had been a bucket list item for me and I wasn't disappointed. I went solo and it was incredible. The tower itself feels very stable and secure even though it can get real windy. The stairs are a workout. They've done a lot of renovations making it even nicer. New windows all around, fresh paint, etc. Amazing 360 degree views. Lots of wasps around the top during the day but they stayed away for the most part. Just something to be aware of. Would like to have had a hand crank winch at the top again to assist with bringing supplies up. There is a rope available but makes it super hard to do manually. You can sometimes get a cell signal from the tower but it's intermittent. Other than that you're off the grid entirely. Will definitely go again in the future."
A. Vidal
"Stayed here a few years back. It was an incredible experience. Sunsets and sunrises were amazing. We stayed 4th of July weekend so we got to see distant fireworks from all sides.
Of course, it’s not going to be as luxurious as the photos portray, but if you’re choosing to make a reservation a year in advance to sleep in the fire tower, you probably aren’t terribly concerned with luxury. There’s a small restroom on site, and you can drive back down to the check in building for a decent shower.
There were so many trails, and the section of the Greenbrier River that goes past the area was so fun to walk through. The AT goes through the forest there as well. There isn’t a grocery store or restaurant nearby, so just be prepared with food for the campfire. You can drive an hour or so to Snowshoe for a nice dinner."
Jessica Hardesty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower is located within Seneca State Forest in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. You'll typically drive to the forest and then follow signs for the fire tower. Be prepared for winding mountain roads.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of the tower. You can drive up to the tower itself.
Even without a reservation, you can often climb the stairs to the top during the day to enjoy the views, though overnight stays require booking.
The drive involves scenic, but often winding, mountain roads. Allow ample time and drive cautiously, especially if you're not accustomed to mountain driving.
The tower involves climbing 65 feet of stairs, which can be challenging for some. The base area has a picnic shelter and pit toilet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are essential and typically need to be made a full year in advance due to high demand. Check the WV State Parks website for booking information and availability.
Rental fees vary, but the experience is considered a bucket-list item. It's best to check the official WV State Parks website for the most current pricing.
Specific check-in and check-out times are usually provided upon booking. It's common for rentals like this to have a standard afternoon check-in and morning check-out.
While not explicitly stated, families with children have stayed, suggesting it's generally family-friendly. However, the stairs might be a consideration for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Cancellation policies are typically set by WV State Parks. It's advisable to review these policies carefully when booking, as popular rentals often have strict rules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tower itself provides shelter and incredible views. At the base, you'll find a pit toilet, a supply of firewood, and a picnic shelter with a table and firepit.
No, there is no electricity or running water inside the tower. You'll need to bring your own water and be prepared for a rustic experience.
Pack essentials like food, water, sleeping bags, warm clothing, a flashlight or headlamp, toiletries, and any personal items. Firewood is provided.
Being at a higher elevation, weather can change quickly. Expect it to be cooler than surrounding areas, and be prepared for wind, rain, or fog.
The stairs can be steep and may rattle in the wind. Wasps have been noted around the top during the day. Always be mindful of your surroundings and the weather.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no grocery stores or restaurants nearby. You must bring all your food and drinks with you. The nearest town for supplies is a considerable drive.
Yes, there is a firepit at the base with a picnic table, perfect for campfire cooking. Firewood is supplied.
Think easy-to-prepare campfire meals, snacks, and plenty of water. Items that don't require refrigeration are ideal if you're concerned about cooler space.
There are no refrigeration facilities. Bring a cooler with ice for perishable items.
Yes, firewood is provided, and there is a firepit at the base of the tower for campfires.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for capturing the 360-degree views. Foggy mornings can also create stunning, atmospheric shots.
Expect sweeping mountain vistas, forest landscapes, and incredible sky views. The tower itself also makes for unique photographic compositions.
The open design of the tower and the unobstructed views make photography relatively easy. Just be mindful of the wind and any wasps.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions like sunrise/sunset, but consider its stability in wind.
Generally, no. However, always be respectful of other guests and the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic way to spark their imagination and encourage an appreciation for nature. Key considerations for families: Pack plenty of snacks and easy-to-prepare meals, as dining options are non-existent. Ensure children are comfortable with heights and can manage the stairs safely. The provided firewood and firepit at the base offer a fun evening activity. Remember to bring entertainment for downtime, as cell service is limited.
💑 Couples Seeking a Unique Getaway
The seclusion and unique nature of the stay create an intimate and memorable experience. Recommendations for couples: Book well in advance to secure this highly sought-after spot. Pack a special meal or some wine to enjoy by the campfire at the base. The quiet solitude and stunning views offer a perfect backdrop for quality time together.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Tips for solo visitors: Embrace the off-grid aspect and use the time for reading, journaling, or simply enjoying the solitude. Be sure to pack all necessary supplies, as you'll be self-sufficient. The stability of the tower and the provided amenities make it a safe and comfortable base for a solo adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Experience of Staying in a Fire Tower
+1Travelers rave about the incredible sunsets and sunrises, often painting the sky with vibrant colors over a sea of fog or 'smoke on the mountains.' The sense of peace and quiet is profound, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. While the amenities are rustic—think pit toilets and no cell service—this is precisely what many visitors seek: a chance to disconnect and appreciate the natural world.
Recent renovations have enhanced the comfort and stability of the tower, making it even more appealing. However, the climb up the stairs is a significant physical aspect of the stay, and visitors should be prepared for this workout. The reward, however, is an unforgettable perspective and a story to tell.
Planning Your Visit: What to Expect and Pack
Essential packing includes all your food and water, as there are no nearby stores or restaurants. Think campfire-friendly meals and plenty of hydration. You'll also need sleeping bags, warm clothing (as temperatures can drop significantly at night), a flashlight or headlamp for navigating after dark, and personal toiletries. Firewood is provided, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire at the base.
While the tower offers shelter and incredible views, it lacks electricity and running water. The base area provides a pit toilet, a picnic shelter, and a firepit. For those seeking a shower, driving back to the check-in building for facilities is an option. Be prepared for the stairs—they are a workout, but the panoramic rewards are well worth the effort.
Exploring Seneca State Forest
For those who enjoy longer treks, sections of the renowned Appalachian Trail (AT) pass through the forest, providing opportunities for thru-hikers and day-trippers alike. The Greenbrier River also flows through the area, offering scenic beauty and potential for riverside walks. The combination of the fire tower stay and forest exploration creates a comprehensive nature retreat.
Beyond hiking, the forest provides a serene environment for activities like birdwatching and simply enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness. The remoteness of the area contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
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