Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park

West Virginia’s First State Park — 287-Acre Civil War Battlefield, Last Major WV Battle (November 6, 1863), CCC Observation Tower, Civil War Museum, Greenbrier Valley Views, Pocahontas County West Virginia

Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park is a 287-acre battlefield park in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, preserving the site of the Battle of Droop Mountain (November 6, 1863) — the last significant Civil War battle fought in West Virginia. Dedicated on July 4, 1928, it was West Virginia’s first state park. The park features a Civil War museum in a restored cabin, CCC-built wooden observation tower with panoramic Greenbrier Valley views, preserved trenches and rifle pits, historical monuments and markers, hiking trails across the battlefield, picnic areas, and biennial battle reenactments.

The Battle of Droop Mountain — November 6, 1863

On November 6, 1863, Union forces under Brigadier General William W. Averell attacked Confederate troops commanded by Brigadier General John Echols who held the high ground atop Droop Mountain. Averell’s force of approximately 4,000 Union soldiers faced Echols’ smaller Confederate garrison of about 1,700 men who were entrenched with artillery blocking the road. After fierce fighting, a Union infantry flanking assault overwhelmed the Confederate left, collapsing their defensive line. Echols retreated south into Virginia, effectively ending organized Confederate resistance in West Virginia for the remainder of the war.

Observation Tower and Battlefield Features

The park’s CCC-built wooden observation tower, constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, rises above the treeline to offer sweeping panoramic views of the Greenbrier River Valley and surrounding Appalachian mountains. Visitors can walk the battlefield and see preserved earthen trenches, rifle pits, and artillery positions that remain from the 1863 engagement. The Civil War museum, housed in a refurbished cabin, displays artifacts including weapons, uniforms, equipment, and documents from the battle.

Reenactments and Programs

The park hosts Civil War battle reenactments typically in October of even-numbered years, drawing hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators. These events feature authentic uniforms, weapons, camp life demonstrations, and tactical recreations of the engagement. The park is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Droop Mountain really West Virginia’s first state park?

Yes, it was dedicated on July 4, 1928, making it the first state park established in West Virginia.

When are the battle reenactments held?

Reenactments are typically held in October of even-numbered years. Check the WV State Parks website for specific dates.

Is there an entrance fee?

There is no entrance fee. The museum is open seasonally with free admission.

Wildlife & Nature

Droop Mountain BF SP — site of the Battle of Droop Mountain (November 6, 1863) — the largest Civil War battle fought in West Virginia. The Union victory effectively ended Confederate resistance in the state. The battlefield’s mountain forest, meadows, and observation tower support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and raptors.

Nearby Attractions

Hillsboro — 5 miles south. Beartown SP — 5 miles south. Cranberry Wilderness — 15 miles southwest.