Bluestone State Park
Wilderness park with cabins adjacent to Bluestone Lake, offering hiking, fishing, and rafting opportunities amidst stunning Appalachian scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Bluestone State Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wilderness park with cabins adjacent to Bluestone Lake, offering hiking, fishing, and rafting opportunities amidst stunning Appalachian scenery.
"Highly recommend this park if you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to stay that has amazing staff."
Cabin Comforts
Cabins offer great amenities, but check appliances upon arrival. Staff are quick to replace faulty items. :house:
Trail Variety
Choose trails wisely! Eagle Point is challenging; others are easy for kids. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bluestone Lake
Adjacent to the park
A vast, scenic lake perfect for fishing, boating, and enjoying the tranquil waters.
Almost Heaven Swing
Scenic overlook
Capture breathtaking views of the Appalachian landscape and New River from this iconic photo spot.
Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
From easy family walks to challenging treks like Eagle Point Trail, explore diverse terrain and scenic vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cabin Comforts
Cabins offer great amenities, but check appliances upon arrival. Staff are quick to replace faulty items. :house:
Trail Variety
Choose trails wisely! Eagle Point is challenging; others are easy for kids. :hiking_boot:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wildlife like beavers along the New River.
Scenic Drives
Enjoy curvy roads with stunning views of the New River and forested landscapes.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cabin Comforts
Cabins offer great amenities, but check appliances upon arrival. Staff are quick to replace faulty items. :house:
Trail Variety
Choose trails wisely! Eagle Point is challenging; others are easy for kids. :hiking_boot:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wildlife like beavers along the New River.
Scenic Drives
Enjoy curvy roads with stunning views of the New River and forested landscapes.
Photo Opportunities
Don't miss the 'Almost Heaven' swing for memorable shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bluestone State Park for its beautiful scenery, relaxing atmosphere, and outstanding staff who are exceptionally helpful and accommodating. The park offers a range of activities from hiking to enjoying the lake, making it a great spot for creating memories. However, some trails, like the Overlook Trail, may not be well-maintained.
"Bluestone State Park is an amazing place to stay. Beautiful views, relaxing atmosphere, great wildlife, pool staff and pool were great, office staff very helpful and professional the facility staff is outstanding and as a whole the staff is absolutely amazing and accommodating. We arrived to find out the refrigerator was not staying cold enough, we called the office within 10 minutes 2 very nice gentlemen arrived checked it and told us they would be right back with a replacement. They were back within 10 minutes and took out the old and brought in the replacement in a very short amount of time. Called for trash pickup and a nice gentleman arrived within minutes and took our trash. Highly recommend this park if you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to stay that has amazing staff and wonderful accommodations. There is also so much to do in West Virginia! You can relax at your cabin or at the pool or do some traveling around this part of this beautiful state. Highly recommend a West Virginia visit and a stay at Bluestone State Park is a great place to start making great memories of your visit!"
Tina Channell
"We did the Overlook Trail. Not very well maintained (multiple trees and heavy brush fallen over trail) and the view is just OK once you reach the end. Walking along the ridge of the mountain towards the end is cool. Decent elevation change so physically good for you. Obviously not a well traveled route by the growth, but we were the only ones on the trail so relaxing hike."
Eric B
"Beautiful state park, has hiking for all different levels of hikers. We did the eagle trail. Eagle point trail is very challenging no recommended for children and pets, a beautiful view is found a the end. Do Not hike this trail if you are not a experience fit hiker."
Blanca Petrillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bluestone State Park is located in Summers County, West Virginia. The park is accessible via scenic, winding roads, offering beautiful views of the Appalachian landscape.
A personal vehicle is recommended for exploring Bluestone State Park and its surrounding attractions. The park itself has roads leading to various trailheads and overlooks.
The closest major airport is Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, West Virginia, which is about a 2-hour drive from Bluestone State Park.
Yes, GPS is generally reliable for navigating to Bluestone State Park. However, cell service can be spotty in some rural areas, so it's advisable to download offline maps.
Yes, Bluestone State Park is a great destination for day trips, especially if you're exploring southern West Virginia. You can easily combine it with visits to Pipestem State Park or Sandstone Falls.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bluestone State Park generally does not have an entrance fee for day use. However, fees may apply for specific activities or amenities like camping and cabin rentals.
Bluestone State Park is typically open year-round for day use. Specific facilities like campgrounds and cabins have their own operating seasons and hours. It's best to check the official West Virginia State Parks website for the most current information.
Reservations for cabins and campsites at Bluestone State Park can usually be made through the West Virginia State Parks reservation system online or by phone. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the park's official schedule for potential events. The park has hosted memorial events like the USMC Sgt. Mecot Camara Memorial Ruck.
Pets are generally allowed in Bluestone State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Some specific areas or facilities may have restrictions, so it's always wise to check park regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
For a challenging hike with a rewarding view, try the Eagle Point Trail. For easier walks suitable for families and young children, consider shorter, less strenuous paths. The Overlook Trail offers a moderate option, though it can be overgrown.
Bluestone Lake is ideal for fishing and boating. While not explicitly mentioned for swimming, its scenic beauty makes it a great spot for enjoying the water.
Yes, visitors have reported seeing wildlife, including beavers in the New River.
The 'Almost Heaven' swing is a popular photo opportunity offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's located at a scenic overlook within Bluestone State Park.
Yes, Bluestone State Park offers easy walking trails suitable for young children, allowing them to explore creeks and enjoy nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bluestone State Park itself does not appear to have on-site restaurants. Visitors often bring their own food for picnics or utilize cabin kitchens.
Nearby towns like Hinton offer dining options. For a unique experience, consider places like Secret Sandwich Society or Mayari NRG if you're exploring the wider southern WV area.
Yes, picnic areas are available, and it's a great way to enjoy the park's scenery. Many visitors opt for picnics, especially if staying in cabins with kitchens.
You'll find grocery stores in the nearby town of Hinton, which is convenient for stocking up on supplies for your stay.
Hinton offers a range of local eateries, from casual diners to cafes. It's a good place to find local flavors and grab a meal before or after visiting the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Almost Heaven' swing is a must-visit for iconic shots. Scenic overlooks along the winding roads also provide stunning backdrops of the New River and Appalachian mountains.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for landscape photography. Early mornings can also be magical with mist over the lake.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's essential to check with the park office or the West Virginia State Parks website for current drone policies before flying.
Expect to photograph lush forests, the expansive Bluestone Lake, the winding New River, and rolling Appalachian hills. Fall colors are particularly spectacular.
Beyond the 'Almost Heaven' swing, explore various overlooks along the park roads. The views from the ridge trails, like the Overlook Trail, can also be rewarding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
When staying in cabins, families can benefit from the helpful staff who are quick to address any issues, ensuring a comfortable stay.
🏞️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Hikers
Beyond the challenging routes, the park provides varied terrain for all levels. The scenic drives and overlooks offer stunning vistas, perfect for those who enjoy exploring by car as well.
The park's natural beauty, from the lake to the forested mountains, makes it an ideal destination for immersing yourself in the wilderness. 📸 Photographers & View Seekers
The winding roads leading to and through the park provide numerous scenic overlooks with sweeping vistas of the New River and Appalachian mountains, especially captivating during fall foliage. +1Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) are ideal for capturing the best light.
The park's natural beauty, from the serene Bluestone Lake to the lush forests, provides a diverse range of photographic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bluestone's Trails
For families and less experienced hikers, there are easier options. A short walk after visiting the 'Almost Heaven' swing is perfect for young kids, offering a chance to explore creeks.
When planning your hike, it's always a good idea to check current trail conditions with park staff. The park's natural setting means trails can be affected by weather and seasonal changes.
Proper footwear is essential, and carrying water is always advised, especially on longer or more challenging routes. Bluestone Lake: A Water Lover's Paradise
Boating is also a popular pastime, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding Appalachian landscape. While specific details about swimming are less prominent, the lake's serene atmosphere makes it a picturesque spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural environment.
The lake is a key feature of the park, contributing to its appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation. Visitors often combine lake activities with scenic drives along the park's winding roads, which offer stunning views of the New River and the lake itself.
The presence of wildlife, such as beavers spotted in the New River near the lake, adds to the natural charm of the area. The 'Almost Heaven' Experience
This swing is strategically placed to offer breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Appalachian landscape and the winding New River. Beyond the swing, the park's scenic overlooks and winding roads provide numerous opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
The park is especially beautiful during the fall, when the foliage transforms the mountains into a vibrant tapestry of colors. For those looking to slow down and appreciate the moment, exploring Bluestone State Park offers a chance to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
The park's tranquil atmosphere, combined with its scenic vistas, makes it a compelling destination for both relaxation and adventure. 
Social
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