Coopers Rock State Forest; don’t drive by!

Blog post by: Matt

Just a short detour off of I-68 in West Virginia is Coopers Rock State Forest. I’ve passed Coopers Rock several times, and I was happy to get the chance to finally go. We stayed in McCollum Campground, where we were greeted by very friendly staff. The sites have electricity, and potable water is a short walk away, but cell service is very limited.  The campground hosts recommended taking the McCollum trail to Raven Rock trail before the strong thunderstorms set in. We hustled along the 2 mile out and back trail to Raven Rock overlook. The trail through the vernal green forest was relatively easy. Just watch out for loose rocks or you might twist an ankle. We were rewarded with sweeping views of Cheat River Gorge on a beautiful day. We headed back once we heard the roll of distant thunder. The storms still hadn’t arrived after an early dinner, so we snuck out to Coopers Rock overlook. Again we were greeted with views of Cheat River with Morgantown WV in the distance as the thunderstorms rolled in. Coopers Rock State Forest is a beautiful place for a short hike, and to stop for a night.

Entrance to Coopers Rock State Forest
Eli on the McCallum Trail
Eli on Raven Rock Overlook in Coopers Rock State Forest
Lightning strike over Morgantown WV from Coopers Rock Overlook.
Lightning strike from Coopers Rock Overlook

4 thoughts on “Coopers Rock State Forest; don’t drive by!

  1. Sounds like a great time! Awesome picture of lightning! I hope you guys have a great summer traveling. I’m looking forward to living vicariously through you!

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