Kanawha State Forest

About this activity

Located only seven miles south of Charleston, West Virginia, the Kanawha State Forests' close proximity to the heavily populated Kanawha Valley has made it a recreational haven! If you love the great outdoors, then this might need to be on your family day out bucket list!

Some of the state's most popular picnic areas are at Kanawha State Forest, along with significant hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing opportunities. 

The 9,300-acre forest is noted among naturalists for its diverse wildflower and bird populations, so make sure you take your camera, as there will be a host of amazing wildlife all around you!. Rich cove forest sites provide nesting habitat for 19 species of wood warblers, a feature which draws birders from as far away as Canada. Pretty cool huh?

Did you know that the forest has some of West Virginia's most popular picnic areas too? Not only that, you'll find a playground that attracts families during the summer season, and the fully equipped campground is one of the few in the Charleston area.

Whether your family loves to get out and hike, or enjoy a spot of fishing on the water, biking or perhaps even geocaching, there are plenty of outdoor adventures for kids waiting!

Sense of adventure? Check. Then let's head out to Kanawha State Forest and get exploring!