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Thorny Mountain Fire Tower

The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in the Seneca State Forest in West Virginia is one of many historic fire towers that dot the forested landscape. Once a fixture atop peaks across America, they provided housing and protection for individuals whose duty was to search for wildfires. Improvement in radio and cellular technology, the rise of aircraft spotters, and budget cuts have led to the abandonment of many fire lookout towers.

Thorny Mountain ceased operations in 1988 and was abandoned for years until it was recently restored for use as an overnight accommodation for those looking to camp under the stars! It is one of the few places in the United States that offer up this unique opportunity.

 

Resources

Official Website

(304) 799-6213

From Marlinton, follow WV Route 39 east for 5.5 miles. Turn left onto WV Route 28 and continue north for 10.2 miles. Turn left into the main Seneca State Forest entrance and follow Loop Road (follow signs for guidance).

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