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Watoga State Park

Named after the Cherokee word for “starry waters,” Watoga State Park is the state’s largest state park, spread over 10,000 acres of mountainous terrain hiding crystal clear lakes and streams and richly forested hillsides. Formerly a state forest, the state park opened to the public in 1937. Today, Watoga is known for its excellent fishing opportunities along Watoga Lake, its strenuous hiking trails leading to magnificent overlooks, its rustic cabins, and its fire tower-turned-observation overlook.

Additionally, the International Dark Sky Association awarded Watoga State Park with an official Dark Sky Park status in October 2021.

Resources

There are more than 37 miles of hiking, horseback, mountain bike, and cross-country skiing trails at Watoga State Park. Most notably, 5.5 miles of the rugged Allegheny Trail cross through the park as it travels from Blackwater Falls State Park to the Virginia border in Monroe County. The 3-mile Ann Bailey Trail follows an old roadbed across the top of Pyles Mountain and Workman Ridge to the Ann Bailey Lookout Tower, while a 1.5-mile trail encircles Watoga Lake.

Official Website

(304) 799-4087

  • From Marlinton, follow US Route 219 south for 9.5 miles. Turn left at County Route 27 (Seebert Road) and follow that and County Route 27/3 (Seebert River Road) for 3 miles.
  • From Lewisburg at Interstate 64, follow US Route 219 north for 30 miles. Turn right at County Route 27 (Seebert Road) and follow that and County Route 27/3 (Seebert River Road) for 3 miles.

Gallery

Watoga State Park
Watoga State Park
Watoga Lake
Watoga Lake

Weather

Watoga State Park Weather
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Laurel Falls
Thorny Mountain Fire Tower

American Byways is an exploration-focused website that helps you discover hidden gems, find unique waypoints, and trek to spectacular natural wonders.

Comments:

  • Deb Viergutz

    December 19, 2022

    Sounds beautiful! What town is near here?

    reply...

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