Valley Falls State Park
West Virginia State Park

Valley Falls State Park

Copperhead Trail, Valley Falls, West Virginia 26556
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Mountain Biking
  • Rafting
  • Kayaking
  • Waterfall Viewing
  • Biking

🌤 Weather at Valley Falls State Park by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
33–73 °F60–84 °F36–77 °F24–44 °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 Fairmont, 5 mi away, elevation 1,300 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Valley Falls State Park features four stunning waterfalls on the Tygart Valley River, 18 miles of trails, and a historic covered bridge—a perfect West Virginia day trip!

Four Waterfalls

Waterfall InfoDetails
💧 Falls4 cascades
🌊 RiverTygart Valley River
🌉 BridgeHistoric Hammond Bridge
🥾 TrailsRhododendron + River trails

18 Miles of Trails

Trail InfoDetails
🥾 Total18 miles
🚴 MTBMountain biking allowed
🔄 Loop10-mile combo possible
📊 DifficultyEasy to challenging

Day-Use Only

Visiting InfoDetails
🚫 CampingNo—day use only
🕐 Hours7am–dusk
🚫 SwimmingProhibited in river
🛶 KayakingAt own risk (sign in first)

FAQ

Can I camp at Valley Falls?

No—day use only. For camping, visit Tygart Lake State Park further down the river.

Can I swim in the falls?

No—swimming prohibited in the river. The currents near the falls are dangerous.

Can I kayak the falls?

At your own risk! Whitewater kayakers must sign in at the superintendent’s office before entering the water.

💧 West Virginia’s Waterfall Gem

Visit WV State Parks website.

Location & Getting There

Valley Falls State Park is located in West Virginia. The park’s coordinates are 39.3939, -80.0822. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.

Quick Facts

  • Location: West Virginia
  • Coordinates: 39.3939, -80.0822
  • Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
  • Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)

Things to Do

West Virginia parks nestle in the Appalachian Mountains with rugged scenery. Activities include hiking along canyon rims, rock climbing, whitewater rafting world-class rapids, fishing for trout, camping in deep forest, mountain biking, and exploring coal mining heritage.

Best Time to Visit

Fall is spectacular with vivid Appalachian foliage. Summer is peak for whitewater and swimming. Spring brings wildflowers and trout fishing. Winter offers snow-covered landscapes.

Visitor Tips

West Virginia state parks are free to enter. The system offers resort-quality lodges and restaurants inside parks. Reservations through wvstateparks.com. Cell service is limited in mountain parks.

Explore More West Virginia State Parks

Valley Falls 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.

Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Pricketts Fort State Park is a short drive away, and Tygart Lake State Park is a short drive away.

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Valley Falls 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 Valley Falls 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

Last updated: February 20, 2026

Park Location

Copperhead Trail, Valley Falls, West Virginia 26556

Plan your gear for Valley Falls State Park

From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities: