West Virginia’s Dramatic Sandstone Spire — 396-Acre Day-Use Park, Towering 3,100-Foot Rock Formation, Jimmy Lewis Lake Trout Fishing, WPA Stone Shelter, Appalachian Mountain Trails, Mercer County Near Bramwell West Virginia
Pinnacle Rock State Park is a 396-acre day-use park in Mercer County, West Virginia, near the historic coal town of Bramwell, featuring a dramatic sandstone and shale rock formation that towers over 3,100 feet above sea level with panoramic views of the Bluestone River Valley and surrounding Appalachian mountains. The park features the iconic Pinnacle Rock formation, 17-acre Jimmy Lewis Lake stocked with trout and bass, approximately 7 miles of hiking and biking trails, a WPA-era rustic stone picnic shelter with massive fireplace, playground, scenic mountain overlooks, and one of the most photographed geological formations in southern West Virginia.
The Pinnacle Rock Formation
The park’s centerpiece is the Pinnacle Rock, a striking sandstone and shale formation that rises dramatically from the mountain ridge. This towering natural spire has been a landmark for centuries, visible from surrounding valleys and serving as a navigation point for early settlers and travelers along what is now U.S. Route 52. The formation sits at over 3,100 feet elevation, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Bluestone River Valley, the Appalachian plateau, and on clear days, distant mountain ranges across multiple counties. The park was established in 1938 specifically to preserve this unique geological feature.
Jimmy Lewis Lake
The park’s 17-acre Jimmy Lewis Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities in a serene mountain setting. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow and golden trout by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and also supports populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. The lake features a fishing pier and bank fishing access, making it popular with anglers of all ages. No motorized boats are permitted, ensuring a quiet fishing experience.
WPA Heritage and Picnic Facilities
Much of the park’s infrastructure dates to the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era of the 1930s, including a beautifully crafted rustic stone picnic shelter with a massive stone fireplace and the park’s entrance features. These Depression-era stone structures are architectural treasures in their own right, exemplifying the skilled craftsmanship of WPA workers who built enduring recreational facilities throughout Appalachia.
Trails and Natural Features
Approximately 7 miles of trails wind through the park’s forested terrain, offering hikes through mixed Appalachian hardwood forests, rhododendron thickets, and mountain laurel. Trails range from easy walks around Jimmy Lewis Lake to more challenging routes ascending to the Pinnacle Rock overlook. The park’s high elevation supports diverse plant communities and provides habitat for black bear, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous songbird species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Pinnacle Rock State Park?
There is no entrance fee. The park is a free day-use facility open year-round.
Can I camp at Pinnacle Rock State Park?
No, Pinnacle Rock is a day-use only park. For camping in the area, nearby Camp Creek State Park offers campground facilities.
What fishing is available at Jimmy Lewis Lake?
The 17-acre lake is stocked with rainbow and golden trout and supports largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required. No motorized boats are permitted.
Wildlife & Nature
Pinnacle Rock SP — features a 3,100-foot sandstone pinnacle — a dramatic rock spire towering above the surrounding Appalachian forest. The park’s rock formations, rhododendron, and hardwood forest support black bears, white-tailed deer, and timber rattlesnakes.
Nearby Attractions
Bramwell — 5 miles south — once home to more millionaires per capita than any town in America (coal barons). Bluefield — 5 miles east.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Camp Creek State Park (within about an hour’s drive) or Pipestem Resort State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Pinnacle Rock 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 Pinnacle Rock 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 Pinnacle Rock State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Roanoke
from $235
from $50
from $82