State Parks and National Parks

A number of factors figure into Lost River State Park's popularity.

It is easily reached from major population centers and handy to other West Virginia attractions, such as Spruce Knob, the state's highest point.

Its history is interesting. At one time the park was the summer retreat of the famous Lee family of Virginia. A cabin built in the 1800s by "Light Horse Harry" Lee is now a seasonal museum.

Later the park was a resort, and visitors may still sample mineral waters that once "cured" resort guests.

Lost River's built-in charms are considerable. Its 3,712 acres are studded with old, massive trees and full of wildlife. Deer and varied birds are abundant, and bears and golden and bald eagles have been sighted here.

A hike or horseback ride to "Cranny Crow," a scenic lookout at 3,200 feet, reveals commanding views around the park. Twenty-five miles of trails snake through the park. Fifteen miles are open to equestrians (horses may be rented) and two miles are open to mountain bikers.

The park has no campsites, but there is a private campground nearby. The park does have 11 year-round and 15 seasonal cabins. Facilities also include game courts and a wheelchair-accessible swimming pool.