🌤 Weather at Mont Chateau State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33–74 °F | 60–84 °F | 36–77 °F | 24–44 °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 Morgantown Hart Field, 4 mi away, elevation 1,240 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Former West Virginia State Park (1955–1977) — Cheat Lake Setting, Now WV Geological Survey Headquarters, Museum of Geology and Natural History, Coopers Rock Trail Access, Near Morgantown Monongalia County West Virginia
Mont Chateau State Park was a West Virginia state park that operated from 1955 to 1977 on the shores of Cheat Lake near Morgantown, Monongalia County, West Virginia. After its closure as a state park, the site was repurposed and currently serves as the headquarters of the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey (WVGES), housing the Museum of Geology and Natural History with displays on rocks, minerals, fossils, and dinosaur skeletons. The state-retained 13-acre portion provides trail access to the Coopers Rock State Forest trail system via the Mont Chateau Trail.
History and Transition
Mont Chateau was established as a state park in 1955, taking advantage of its scenic location overlooking Cheat Lake, an impoundment on the Cheat River. The park featured a lodge-style building and recreational grounds. However, the park was closed in 1977, and much of the original property was eventually sold to private owners in the 1980s. The state retained a 13-acre portion centered on the former lodge building, which was converted into the WVGES headquarters.
Museum of Geology and Natural History
The Museum of Geology and Natural History, housed in the former lodge, is open to the public and features exhibits on West Virginia’s remarkable geological heritage. Displays include rock and mineral specimens, Paleozoic fossils from the state’s ancient seabeds, dinosaur skeletons, coal formation exhibits, and educational materials on the geological processes that shaped the Appalachian region. The museum is a popular educational destination for school groups and geology enthusiasts.
Trail Access and Recreation
The site provides access to the Mont Chateau Trail, which connects to the broader Coopers Rock State Forest trail system, including routes to the Henry Clay Furnace historical area. This makes the former park property a viable trailhead for hikers exploring the Coopers Rock area from the Cheat Lake side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mont Chateau still a state park?
No, Mont Chateau ceased operations as a state park in 1977. The site now houses the WV Geological and Economic Survey and a public museum.
Can I visit the geology museum?
Yes, the Museum of Geology and Natural History is open to the public. Contact the WVGES at 1 Mont Chateau Road, Morgantown, WV 26508 for current hours.
Wildlife & Nature
Mont Chateau SP — on Cheat Lake in the Monongalia County hills. The park’s lake, hardwood forest, and mountain terrain support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles.
Nearby Attractions
Morgantown — adjacent — home of West Virginia University. Coopers Rock SF — 10 miles east. Cheat Lake — at the park.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Coopers Rock State Forest (a short drive away) or Prickett Fort State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mont Chateau State Park
- 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 Mont Chateau State Park?
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 Location
Plan your gear for Mont Chateau State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
