Blackwater Falls State Park West Virginia
Discover the amber-hued Blackwater Falls, cascading into a deep gorge, surrounded by hiking trails and scenic overlooks in West Virginia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Blackwater Falls State Park West Virginia
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the amber-hued Blackwater Falls, cascading into a deep gorge, surrounded by hiking trails and scenic overlooks in West Virginia.
"Absolutely beautiful and many trails to choose from."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, wet, or icy. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
🚗 Park at trailheads
Parking is available at most trailheads, making access to different areas convenient.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blackwater Falls
Main overlook
The park's namesake, a 57-foot cascade with amber-tinted water, is a must-see. Accessible via a paved path.
Elakala Falls
Short hike from parking area
A series of three picturesque waterfalls tucked away in a lush gorge, offering a more secluded experience.
Lindy Point Overlook
Short hike from parking area
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Blackwater River Gorge, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Beauty
+2Navigating the Park's Wonders
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, wet, or icy. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
🚗 Park at trailheads
Parking is available at most trailheads, making access to different areas convenient.
📱 Cell service is spotty
Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before heading out.
📸 Capture the amber water
The unique color of Blackwater Falls is due to tannic acid from decaying leaves.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, wet, or icy. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
🚗 Park at trailheads
Parking is available at most trailheads, making access to different areas convenient.
📱 Cell service is spotty
Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before heading out.
📸 Capture the amber water
The unique color of Blackwater Falls is due to tannic acid from decaying leaves.
💰 Park entry is free
Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Blackwater Falls State Park for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the unique amber-colored falls and stunning gorge views. The park is well-maintained with accessible trails, making it enjoyable for various visitors. While the main falls are easily reached, exploring other trails offers rewarding experiences. Some visitors noted minor issues with gift shop selection.
"This stop was our two-day “play and reset” window between Acadia NP and New River Gorge NP — a quiet breather in the beautiful WV mountains. We stayed at the lodge and had breakfast there both mornings, mostly because options nearby are… well, nonexistent. Luckily the buffet was generous, the food was decent enough to fuel the day, and the views helped everything go down a little easier. Service, however, could definitely benefit from a hospitality tune-up — a smile and a bit of warmth go a long way before coffee!
That said, the park itself is lovely. We enjoyed peaceful trails surrounded by lush forest, and the falls are truly worth the trip — dramatic and grounding. I got in a few good hikes, while my husband happily took in the waterfall views from the accessible paths, which are thoughtfully laid out and easy to navigate.
In short:
Beautiful park ✔️
Scenic lodge views ✔️
Buffet that gets the job done ✔️
Service that could caffeinate their cheerfulness ✔️😉
Perfect little nature pause before hitting our next national park. 🌲💧✨"
Adriana Franco
"Falls were nice. Water level in the river was low due to low rain this summer. Well maintained path and stairs to access the falls. The Lodge was clean and the staff was friendly. Smokehouse restaurant was adequate. Park is beautiful with well maintained roads. Stayed 3 days so was able to walk several trails. Well marked trails that are challenging for people who enjoy hiking."
James Mills
"Came here with my wife and we stayed in the lodge while her parents camped in an RV on the campground. This place is really great and beautiful scenery abounds. The hiking is great too, and even a bit more challenging than I had expected. Make sure you do the Dobbin House loop, it’s a good 5 mile hike."
Ian Mitchell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blackwater Falls State Park is located in Davis, West Virginia. It's a scenic drive, often mentioned as a great road trip destination from cities like Richmond and DC.
Yes, the main overlook for Blackwater Falls itself is accessible via a paved, handicap-accessible trail, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the main attraction.
For a quick visit, focus on Blackwater Falls, Elakala Falls, and Lindy Point. These can be visited in 2-3 hours with short hikes.
Yes, trout fishing is popular in the Davis area, and you can obtain a fishing license for this purpose.
Cell service can be spotty within Blackwater Falls State Park, so it's advisable to download offline maps and inform others of your itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Blackwater Falls State Park is free to enter, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.
State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facility hours, like the lodge or gift shop, may vary. It's best to check the official West Virginia State Parks website for the most current information.
Since there is no entrance fee, advance ticket booking is not required for general park access. However, if you plan to stay in the park's cabins or lodge, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Dogs are allowed on a leash, and the park offers various trails suitable for different abilities. Be mindful of weather conditions, especially in winter when trails can be icy.
A gift shop is available, though one visitor noted a desire for more specific park-branded items. You can find bumper stickers, ornaments, and flags.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the accessible path to Blackwater Falls, the hike to Elakala Falls, and the scenic Lindy Point trail. The park offers over 20 miles of trails for various skill levels.
Fall is incredibly popular for its vibrant foliage, typically peaking from late September to early October. +1
Yes, Blackwater Falls State Park offers lodging options including a lodge, cabins, and campsites, providing a full park experience.
Beyond the waterfalls, Lindy Point offers stunning panoramic views of the Blackwater River Gorge, especially beautiful at sunset.
Winter can bring icy conditions, especially on the steps leading down to the falls. While beautiful, exercise extreme caution and wear appropriate footwear.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a lodge with dining facilities available within the park, offering convenient options for visitors.
The Davis area offers local eateries. For specific recommendations, checking local reviews or asking park staff can provide current favorites.
Picnic areas are typically available in state parks, offering a great way to enjoy the scenery while dining. Check park maps for designated picnic spots.
The Davis area is known for its local beer scene, with several breweries and pubs offering craft beverages.
You can expect a range of casual dining options, often featuring local West Virginian cuisine and comfort food.
📸 📸 Photography
The main Blackwater Falls overlook, Elakala Falls, and Lindy Point are prime photography locations. The unique amber color of the water and the surrounding fall foliage offer stunning shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography, especially at Lindy Point.
For silky smooth waterfall shots, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended to keep your camera steady.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the official park regulations or contact the park directly for current drone policies.
The water gets its distinctive amber hue from tannic acids leached from fallen hemlock and spruce needles, creating a unique visual element for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be mesmerized by the unique amber-colored water and the sheer power of the falls. Beyond the main falls, consider short, easy hikes to Elakala Falls for a bit more adventure. Pack snacks and water, as cell service can be spotty.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Lindy Point offers spectacular panoramic views of the gorge, especially at sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. +1Don't miss the chance to discover Elakala Falls, a series of beautiful waterfalls tucked away in a gorge.
📸 Photographers
The main overlook provides an easily accessible, iconic shot. For more dramatic landscapes, head to Lindy Point for breathtaking views of the Blackwater River Gorge, particularly magical during golden hour for sunrise and sunset shots.
+1 Elakala Falls offers opportunities for capturing the beauty of multiple cascades in a more intimate setting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Amber Waters
This amber tint is not a sign of pollution but rather a natural characteristic of the watershed. It's a visual cue that connects the falls directly to the forest ecosystem. Photographers often find this unique coloration adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to their shots, making Blackwater Falls a standout destination for nature lovers and visual artists alike.
Exploring the Trails and Overlooks
This is a must-do for all visitors, offering a direct view of the impressive 57-foot cascade. For those seeking more adventure, trails lead to other beautiful spots like Elakala Falls, a series of three cascades requiring a short hike, and Lindy Point, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Blackwater River Gorge.
+1 Visitors often recommend wearing sturdy footwear, as some paths can be steep, wet, or even icy during winter months. A Four-Season Destination
+2 The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows create a breathtaking backdrop for the falls and surrounding landscapes, making it a prime destination for leaf-peeping. +1In winter, the park transforms into a serene, frozen wonderland. The waterfalls can become encased in ice, creating stunning ice formations that are a photographer's dream.
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