Audra State Park
A wooden boardwalk winds beneath a massive rock overhang—a cathedral of stone called Alum Cave that arches above you as the Middle Fork River rushes below. The same river that carved this shelter creates natural swimming holes downstream, their clear waters inviting on hot Appalachian summer days. This is Audra State Park, one of West Virginia’s oldest parks and one of its most quietly spectacular.
Welcome to Audra State Park, 355 acres of forested riverland where the Middle Fork River cuts through Appalachian hills to create swimming holes, dramatic rock formations, and some of the best Class III-IV whitewater in West Virginia. The park’s signature Alum Cave Trail takes you beneath a massive sandstone overhang via a boardwalk experience found nowhere else in the state. Add 65 campsites along the riverbank, and you have an Appalachian gem that rewards those who discover it.
What Makes Audra Legendary
Alum Cave
Massive sandstone overhang with boardwalk trail beneath—unique experience.
Swimming Holes
Natural river swimming in crystal-clear Middle Fork River.
Whitewater
Class III-IV rapids—2.9 miles of whitewater adventure.
River Camping
65 campsites, many directly on the riverbank.
Alum Cave Trail
The Alum Cave Trail is Audra’s signature experience—a 2.7-mile loop that leads you beneath a massive sandstone rock overhang via a wooden boardwalk. The trail offers:
- 🪨 Alum Cave Overhang: Massive rock shelter with boardwalk beneath
- 🌊 River Views: Picturesque Middle Fork River scenery throughout
- 🌲 Forest Immersion: Appalachian hardwood forest canopy
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Relatively level, though some sections can be slick
👟 Trail Tips
The boardwalk beneath Alum Cave can be slippery from spray. Wear appropriate footwear and watch your step, especially with children.
Swimming Holes
The Middle Fork River creates natural swimming holes that are the park’s summer highlight:
| Swimming Area | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Bridge Area | Man-made swimming area ~5ft deep; concrete “beach” for sunbathing |
| 🌊 Alum Cave Trail Holes | Natural pools downstream along trail; varying depths |
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The river bottom has slippery rocks. Water shoes are strongly recommended for safe swimming.
Middle Fork River
The Middle Fork River is the heart of Audra State Park:
- 🛶 Whitewater: 2.9 miles of Class III-IV rapids (normal conditions)
- 🚣 Put-in: Easy access at the bridge in park
- 🎣 Fishing: Trout, bass, bluegill (WV fishing license required)
- 🏊 Swimming: Natural swimming holes throughout
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🪨 Alum Cave Trail | 2.7 mi loop | Boardwalk beneath rock overhang, river views |
| 🌲 Rock Cliff Trail | Short loop | Cliffside path through dense forest near campground |
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏕️ Campsites | 65 sites for RVs, trailers, and tents |
| ⚡ Electric | Many sites with electric hook-ups |
| 🌊 River Sites | Some sites directly on riverbank |
| 🚿 Amenities | 2 bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers |
| 🛒 Facilities | Camp store, coin laundry, dump station, playground |
| 🐕 Pets | Pet-friendly |
| 📅 Season | Spring through fall (typically April – mid-October) |
When to Visit
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Prime season. Swimming holes perfect for cooling off. Warm and humid. Campground busy—reserve ahead.
Best for: Swimming, camping, hiking
🌸 Spring (April – May)
River running high—best whitewater. Wildflowers. Cool temperatures. Some muddy trails after rain.
Best for: Whitewater paddling, hiking
🍂 Fall (September – October)
Fall foliage in Appalachian forest. Comfortable temperatures. River lower but still flowing. Fewer crowds.
Best for: Fall colors, hiking, photography
❄️ Winter (November – March)
Park may have limited services. Quiet. No swimming. Winter forest beauty.
Best for: Solitude, winter hiking
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Entry Fee | Free day use |
| 🏕️ Camping | From $22/night; some first-come, first-served |
| 🎣 Fishing | WV fishing license required |
Getting There
- 📍 Address: Rt. 4 Box 564, Buckhannon, WV 26201
- 📍 From Buckhannon: ~10 miles east
- 📍 From Clarksburg: ~30 miles southeast
- 📍 Nearby: Holly River State Park, Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Park History
- 🏭 Grist Mill Origins: The area was once home to an early 19th-century grist mill; remnants of the spillway remain visible in the river today
- 🏡 Town of Audra: A small community once existed here, lending its name to the park
- 📅 1950: Audra State Park officially established, making it one of WV’s oldest parks
- ⛰️ Elevation: 1,811 feet above sea level
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Alum Cave actually a cave?
It’s more accurately described as a massive rock overhang or shelter—not an enclosed cave. The boardwalk takes you directly under this impressive sandstone formation.
Can I swim without water shoes?
You can, but it’s not recommended. The river bottom has slippery rocks that can be uncomfortable and unsafe without appropriate footwear.
Is the whitewater suitable for beginners?
The 2.9-mile run is rated Class III-IV in normal conditions—not for beginners. Experience and proper equipment are required for the whitewater sections.
What is Audra State Park known for?
Audra is famous for its iconic boardwalk trail that runs beneath the massive Alum Cave rock overhang—an experience unique in West Virginia. The park is also beloved for its crystal-clear Middle Fork River swimming holes and riverfront camping.
🪨 Under the Stone Cathedral
A boardwalk winds beneath a rock overhang that arches like a stone wave frozen in time. The Middle Fork River rushes past, cutting swimming holes into the Appalachian landscape and creating some of West Virginia’s best whitewater. Audra State Park has been drawing visitors since the 1930s, but it still feels like a secret—a quiet gem where you can swim in crystal-clear river pools, camp within earshot of rushing water, and walk beneath a cave that’s really a stone cathedral open to the forest.
📍 Address: Rt. 4 Box 564, Buckhannon, WV 26201
📞 Phone: (304) 457-1162
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Audra State Park named after?
Audra State Park is named after the small town of Audra, an early 20th-century community that sat on property owned by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. The area was once used for commercial logging before becoming a 4-H camp and eventually a state park in 1950.
Can you swim in the Middle Fork River?
Yes! The Middle Fork River is one of Audra’s main attractions. It’s a popular “lazy river” style destination perfect for floating, swimming, and fishing. The scenic river runs right through the heavily wooded park.
How many campsites does Audra State Park have?
Audra State Park has 65 campsites offering a variety of amenities. Options include sites with electrical hookups for trailer campers as well as more rustic camping options. The campground is open spring through fall, weather permitting.
When did Audra State Park open?
Audra State Park opened to the public in 1950. West Virginia purchased the former B&O Railroad property in 1948 and built the first rustic facilities. The park was expanded in 1960 with more modern facilities including the campground, bathhouse, and playgrounds.
What makes Audra’s forest special?
Audra is known for its “enchanted forest views”—a heavily wooded area nestled along the Middle Fork River. The park’s combination of dense forest canopy and scenic riverside trails creates a magical, almost fairy-tale atmosphere that’s unique among West Virginia state parks.
Is Audra State Park open year-round?
The park itself is open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM. However, the campground is seasonal—open spring through fall, weather permitting. Day visitors can enjoy the trails and river throughout the year when conditions allow.
