🌤 Weather at Coopers Rock State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–69 °F | 52–79 °F | 27–71 °F | 15–39 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Chalk Hill 2 Ene, 17 mi away, elevation 1,980 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Coopers Rock State Forest is a state forest in West Virginia near Bruceton Mills, managed by West Virginia State Parks. The forest offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | West Virginia |
| Nearest City | Bruceton Mills |
Location & Getting There
Coopers Rock State Forest is located near Bruceton Mills, West Virginia. The park’s coordinates are 39.6500, -79.7833.
Things to Do
West Virginia state parks are nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, offering some of the most rugged and beautiful scenery in the eastern United States. Activities include hiking through ancient forests and along dramatic canyon rims, rock climbing the New River Gorge area, whitewater rafting on world-class rapids, fishing for trout in cold mountain streams, camping in deep forest settings, mountain biking on expanding trail systems, swimming in mountain lakes and pools, cross-country skiing in winter, and exploring the state’s rich coal mining and railroad heritage.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (late September–October) is spectacular, with the Appalachian hardwood forests producing some of the most vivid foliage in the country. Summer (June–August) is peak season for whitewater rafting, swimming, and general outdoor recreation, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Spring brings wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and great trout fishing. Winter is cold but offers peaceful snow-covered landscapes and cross-country skiing at select parks.
Visitor Tips
West Virginia state parks are free to enter for day use. The state system is renowned for its resort-quality lodges and restaurants inside parks — including Stonewall Jackson, Canaan Valley, and Pipestem Resort. Cabin and lodge reservations through wvstateparks.com. Many parks host festivals and events throughout the year. Cell service is limited in many mountain parks — download offline maps before heading out.
Explore More West Virginia State Parks
Looking for state parks in West Virginia? Discover them in our Best State Parks in West Virginia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Coopers Rock SF — 12,713 acres — named for a fugitive cooper (barrel maker) who hid in the rocks. The main overlook offers a breathtaking view of the Cheat River Gorge — one of the most photographed views in West Virginia. The forest’s hardwood forest, rock outcrops, and streams support black bears, timber rattlesnakes, and wild turkeys.
Nearby Attractions
Morgantown — 13 miles west — home of West Virginia University. Cheat River — below the overlook. I-68 — through the forest.
Nearby parks: If you have extra time, Mont Chateau Research Center is a short drive away, and Prickett's Fort State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Coopers Rock State Forest
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Pets must be leashed and restrained at all times; in lodging public areas a sturdy leash no longer than 10 ft is required
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Select pet-friendly cabins, cottages and lodge rooms at 16 state parks and 4 state forests (e.g. Babcock, Blackwater Falls, Cacapon Resort, Twin Falls Resort); lodge rooms $25 first night + $10 each additional night per pet (capped at $75 per visit), cabins $50 first night + $5 each additional night per pet
- Pet fees statewide rule
- Lodging pet fees: lodge rooms $25 first night + $10/additional night per pet (max $75/visit); cabins $50 first night + $5/additional night per pet
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Only dogs and cats permitted; maximum two pets in pet-friendly lodging; rabies certification required for lodging stays
Are dogs allowed at Coopers Rock State Forest?
Dogs and cats (the only pets permitted) are welcome in West Virginia state parks and forests, including campgrounds and trails, if leashed, restrained, vaccinated and in good health. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via wvstateparks.com. More: West Virginia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Coopers Rock State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
