Dubois State Park
Dubois State Park is a public state park in West Virginia near Institute in Kanawha County County. The park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | West Virginia |
| Nearest City | Institute |
| County | Kanawha County |
Location & Getting There
Dubois State Park is located near Institute, West Virginia. The park’s coordinates are 38.3808001, -81.7633545.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are West Virginia state parks free?
Yes, West Virginia state parks are free to enter for day use. There are no entrance fees or vehicle permits. The parks offer some of the best lodges and restaurants in any state park system.
What are the best state parks in West Virginia?
Top parks include Blackwater Falls (dramatic waterfall), Coopers Rock (overlook above Cheat River gorge), Cathedral State Park (virgin hemlock forest), and Babcock (famous Glade Creek Grist Mill photo spot).
Can I go whitewater rafting near West Virginia state parks?
Yes, the New River Gorge area (now a National Park) offers world-class whitewater. Nearby state parks like Hawks Nest and Babcock provide convenient lodging and access to rafting outfitters.
Are there resort lodges at West Virginia state parks?
Yes, West Virginia is known for excellent resort-quality state park lodges with restaurants, pools, and golf courses. Stonewall Jackson Resort, Canaan Valley Resort, and Pipestem Resort are the most popular.
Explore More West Virginia State Parks
Dubois State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in West Virginia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in West Virginia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
