Less than 15 miles from Morgantown, West Virginia, you will find a stunning 12,747-acre protected forest. Coopers Rock State Forest is home to a vibrant stretch of trails and forest that share a border with the canyons of the Cheat River, which is notorious with white water rafters. Besides being a scenic area to pitch a tent, Coopers Rock actually offers a multitude of options for recreation. This includes picnicking, fishing, hiking, hunting, camping, and rock climbing. Visitors who want to use the park for hunting or fishing are asked to obtain the proper licensing prior to arriving. The extra step is worth it though, as the park features a glistening six-acre pond that’s brimming with fresh trout that’s located on the northern side of the forest. 

 Coopers Rock State Forest has been, and continues to be a hugely popular destination with rock climbing enthusiasts. It’s considered one of the best areas for bouldering in the eastern U.S., and there are at least 5 popular climbing sites that are easy to find within the park. Those destinations are Roof Rocks, Upper Rock City, Sunset Wall, Roadside Rocks, and Tilted Tree. 

 If you enjoy winter sports, you’ll be pleased to find that Coopers Rock is also known for its ski terrain in the winter. Be careful, however, as the trails here are known to be best suited for intermediate to experienced skiiers. For those considering trying them out, frequent visitors suggest waiting until the snow is densely packed on, at least half a foot, to avoid injury on the many rocks, branches and roots on the trails below the snow.

 Breathtaking views atop sky-high cliffs make camping at the park almost a given for visitors. The park offers two different campgrounds, each offering the options of comforts like water and electricity hook-ups, or more traditional tent camping. All accommodations here are first come first serve. McCollum Campground serves as the main camping area and accommodates a total of 25 campsites, each equipped with electrical and water hook-ups, a bathhouse and even wireless internet. Pets are welcome visitors as long as they remain on a leash or crate at all times.



Coopers Rock State Forest

We stayed here 9/2018 at site #10 and can't wait to return. There is a small campground just by the entrance that has a small store and electric sites with RV hookups. Site 10 was at the campground at the top of the hill, sparsely populated, and had beautiful views beyond the trees. There were toilets and drinking water, but no electricity.  The bathrooms do not have lighting so bring a headlamp or flashlight. Each site had a fire ring and a picnic table. Trails were well maintained, but be warned that the overlook is crowded.

Go all the way up the hill

I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!

Fun Rock Climbing

Coopers Rock State Forest is located in the northeast area of WV, just east of Morgantown…home of WVU. Easy to access, feels remote, yet close to a great college town.

We camped in McCollum campground within Coopers Rock State Forest. A small campground, but during the week it was quiet while being full. Surprisingly, you had wifi service, which is a modern day miracle, seeing most of WV has "no service" emblazoned across your phone. You have one shower house/flush toilet…but its sufficient. Downside: campsites enjoy no privacy or seclustion…

Trails inside the park are excellent and varied. There are plenty of trails to keep you occupied for a week or more, and the scenary will keep you coming back.

The Raven Rock Trail culminated with an incredible long view of the Cheat River Gorge. You could easily spend an entire morning reveling in the beauty of the gorge and the bluffs offer fantastic photo opportunities…as does Coopers Rock, especially at sunset. A memorable visit.

Much history surrounds this state forest. The Henry Clay Furnace Trail revealed some of the interesting history of the area, prompting you to dig deeper.

At some point during your stay at Coopers Rock, find your way down to Morgantown. Its really a cool town. Take a lunch break at Black Bear Burrito…you will thank me later. For all your outdoor enthusiast needs alot an hour or two for Pathfinder outdoor retailer. The staff were fantastic, knowledgeable of all the surrounding outdoor pursuits and experts of all adventure gear that they sell. If you desire the burger, choose Tailpipes.

We used Coopers Rock as a jump-off point for three weeks of nearby camping and hiking…Lovin' West Virginia!

Scenic and Quiet

We have NOT stayed in or photographed the campground at [Coopers Rock state forest](https://wvstateparks.com/park/coopers-rock-state-forest/), but I wanted to provide some photos of the park and a brief review of the area as we’ve been there several times. I have visited Coopers Rock both in winter (note: not all parking areas are open in winter, especially after it starts snowing) and summer. It's a popular hiking destination that's relatively close to [Morgantown](http://www.tourmorgantown.com/), so it gets pretty crowded in the summer and I would suggest arriving early if you're going to do one of the main trails like Raven Rock. The views of Cheat River from both Coopers Rock and Raven Rock are pretty awesome, and it really just depends on whether or not you feel like working a little bit for the view - the Coopers Rock view is essentially right next to the top parking lot (which is also where those cool rock animals are), whereas the Raven Rock view is at the end of the 1.2 mile (2.4 out and back) trail. I would suggest heading to the Coopers Rock viewpoint if you have young kids, as there is a fence built around the viewing rocks - there is nothing between you and the cliffside at Raven Rock.

If you're in the Coopers Rock area and want a great place to eat and grab a beer after a hike, I highly suggest swinging into Morgantown and heading to [Mountain State Brewing Co](http://mountainstatebrewing.com/) (not to be confused with Morgantown Brewing, which I've also eaten at but prefer Mountain State) which is situated along the Monongahela. If the weather is nice, sit outside on the patio - they have pretty good beer, awesome pizzas, and relaxing view of the (muddy) river.

Great views of the Cheat River close to Morgantown

Was an excellent place to take my son and our dog. We plan to go again when the weather gets warmer.

Camping@Coopers Rock

This small campground is just a couple of miles from busy Hwy 68, but amazingly quiet. Sites are average to large, with a few that can accommodate larger RV’s. All have electricity, a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern pole.

There is almost no privacy between sites, but sites are spacious. The campground is kept very clean. Bathrooms are older, but kept clean and have nice HOT showers. There is also a small laundry room with dishwashing sink behind the bathhouse. Both ice and firewood are sold onsite.

There are many hiking trails in the area, including the very popular [Raven Rock trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/raven-rock-trail) that leads to an incredible overlook of the Cheat River Valley and Canyon. Also very popular are both the Big Sandy and Cheat Rivers, both within 10 miles to the put ins. Lots of options nearby for just a few hours and/or a full day of whitewater fun.

Morgantown, about 10 miles away, is the closest town and is filled with everything you need. We enjoyed a great cycling day on the [Mon River Trail](https://www.traillink.com/trail/mon-river-trail-north/) which runs along the Monongahela River, accessible from downtown Morgantown or Star City.

Quiet campground with easy access to outdoor fun

Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time. Didn't miss his PS4 at all.. Great place to go for a long weekend trip.

Very clean (except restrooms)and  quiet. Pet friendly!

While I wish the campgrounds were a little closer to the visitor center, there are trails that lead you to great overlooks, hiking, and climbing all over the place. There are electrical hookups, and running water/showers. If youre willing to do a little hiking, there's a great old kiln you can visit and actually crawl inside of!

great access to views and rock climbing!

This is the largest state forest in West Virginia, it has a total of 25 sites that vary in their privacy. Each site has electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire grates, and utility post. The sites in the middle of the loop lack privacy that the outer loop sites have. There is one bath house that has hot showers, flush toilets, water spigots, and now WIFI. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. There are gravel pull-ins for the sites, there are a couple of pull through sites for RVs.

The campground gets busy during the fall because it is so close to Morgantown and Mountaineer games. There are lots of hiking trails, coopers rock is definitely a must to see during sunset. Ravens rock is also a beautiful look out trail. Rock climbers have a lot of rock outcroppings on short trails for climbers to utilize. Fishing, biking, and hunting are also popular activities that can be done here.

Must See Sunsets

My boyfriend and I stayed at the Rhodeodendron Campground during a climbing trip. It is the more primitive campground, but we very much enjoyed it. The sites are spread out and not on top of each other, giving you privacy. It was nice and quiet, which I very much value. The only complaint was that the bathrooms were a bit of a hike, but they were flush toilets so it's not really much of a complaint. Great experience there. Were also allowed to head over to the McCollum Campground to use the wifi, showers, and facilities there.

Fantastic!

Awesome views and great hiking trails. Not far from Cheat lake and cheat river for fishing. The camp sites are well kept and have easy access to bathrooms and firewood. Also cabins near by if you wish to rent out those. Must see for a weekend trip.

Amazing Fun

We often do dispersed, leave no trace, primitive camping throughout the state forest. There are wonderful, well maintained trails throughout. If you want to dive into nature within a 30 minute drive from Morgantown, this is your place to go. Take the scenic hike to raven’s rock for views that will not disappoint.

Beautiful Mountains

We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there. Campground was in great shape, the RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently. The bathrooms were clean and heated to a comfortable level. Showers had great pressure as well. The spots were well spaced out and pretty spacious, the site we were in had electric hookup for 50a/30a/20a but no water at the site but there was water near the bathroom area. Nice big fire pit in the center area for groups.

Near Perfect Campground

The McCollum Campground at Coopers Rock State Forest is a great place to stay. The sites are nicely spaced apart, the camp staff is helpful, and the showers are very clean. The camp Wi-Fi isn't the best but we did have cell service with Consumer Cellular (AT&amp;T Towers) and were able to work while we camped. The campground is only a short drive to the scenic overlook but if you're feeling adventurous you can take a hike. There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play. My only complaint is the firewood available to purchase. It's a small bundle for the price.

Fall Camping in North Central West Virginia

This is my absolutely favorite go-to weekend exploration spot. She never looks the same, and every season has a new vista to offer 

My go-to

Very nice campground, the road though smooth the berm drops at roads edge so watch your trailer wheels. Just a couple miles away is Coopers Rock beautiful scenic views. We’ll be back

 McCollum campground 

Each site was massive with privacy from your neighbors. There is a great access to the trails from the campsite and a short walk to the overlook. Depending upon your location the bathrooms can be a hike. Sites 3-7 are good locations. 

Rhododendron Campsite 

The sites vary in size and setup. Some seemed rather small or awkward. Site 6 is huge and has plenty of flat area for a tent. Site 7 which is pictured is also pretty large. These two along with site 5 would be good for a group. They’re all close to the bathroom but site 5 has a cut through trail that makes it even more convenient to get to the bathroom. Bathrooms were clean while we were there but there were also very few other people camping. This campground is walkable to the overlook and a few trails can be hiked right from camp. There is a little store for firewood at the overlook parking lot. Water source, showers, laundry, and dish washing sink are all at McCollum campground which is a short drive away. Lots of tree cover which helped for when it rained. Overall a nice experience.

Rhododendron Campground

Coopers Rock offers lots of hiking, outdoor activities. Nice park, nice staff and pretty good facilities.

Beautiful, natural park

We had a wonderful time camping here. It was so quiet and had great access to the trails near the overlook.

 We were at site 5 and it was great. Not as secluded as sights like 22-25 but we had a trail that lead right to the bathroom. Site 5 if definitely the closest to the bathroom if you need that. 

Most of the sights had a tent pad to set up on. They all had fire rings with a grate for cooking. The bathrooms were extremely clean! 


Beautiful campground with well spaced sites. Only electric hookup but they look like they are expanding the RV camping area and those newer sites will have water as well. Can’t beat this park for beautiful trails and overlooks.

Beware Site 25! Very hard to get into! My husband is a professional B-double truck driver and getting our 28ft trailer on there got him sweating a bit!