7 West Virginia Travel Guide Books That Unlock Your Next Adventure

What started as a collaborative effort by the West Virginia Wildwater Association in 1965, this guide has evolved into the definitive resource on paddling West Virginia's waterways. Paul Davidson, a seasoned paddling expert, and his co-authors provide detailed profiles for over 200 trips, covering rivers like the Gauley, New, and Cheat. You'll find practical data on river classes, trip lengths, and solitude ratings, all designed to equip you with the confidence needed for safe exploration. Whether you're a novice paddler or an experienced kayaker, this book delivers focused insights to enhance your adventures in West Virginia's waterways.

Johnny Molloy's decades of experience as an outdoors writer shine through in this guide to tent camping across the Carolinas. He draws from extensive personal exploration, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast, to help you pinpoint campgrounds that match your preferences for privacy, scenery, and amenities. You'll find detailed maps and ratings covering beauty, safety, and cleanliness, making it easier to choose whether you want a quiet spot by a stream or a family-friendly site with full facilities. This book suits anyone looking to deepen their connection with nature through car camping rather than those seeking backpacking or remote wilderness adventures.

This tailored book explores the rich and diverse travel opportunities across West Virginia, focusing on your unique interests and goals. It covers key destinations, outdoor activities, cultural highlights, and scenic routes, all synthesized to match your background and preferences. By concentrating on what matters most to you, it reveals a personalized pathway through the Mountain State's landscapes and experiences. The book combines expert knowledge with a custom approach, allowing you to navigate West Virginia’s top places with confidence and enthusiasm. Whether your passion lies in hiking, history, or hidden gems, this guide provides a tailored companion to enhance your travel planning and discovery.

Unlike most travel guides that skim the surface, Hank O'Connor dives deep into West Virginia's distinct character, blending natural wonders with cultural history. You’ll find detailed itineraries spotlighting the Appalachian Mountains, local festivals, and Appalachian cuisine, providing a nuanced understanding of the state’s diversity. For example, chapters on the New River Gorge offer both hiking routes and historical context about the area’s coal mining heritage. This book suits travelers who crave more than tourist stops—they want to connect with West Virginia’s soul through immersive experiences and expert insights.

Drawing from decades of personal exploration, Maureen Crockett offers a detailed look into West Virginia's state parks that goes beyond typical travel guides. You’ll gain vivid insights into the diverse landscapes, indigenous flora and fauna, and the range of recreational activities available across all thirty-seven parks. Through her candid interviews with park superintendents and visitors, the book provides nuanced perspectives that enrich your understanding of each location. The inclusion of Steve Shaluta’s striking photography complements the descriptive essays, making it a visual as well as informative journey. Whether you're a longtime park enthusiast or new to these natural treasures, this guide helps deepen your connection and appreciation.

Su Clauson-Wicker's deep connection to West Virginia shines through in this guide, born from her years of weekend explorations and extensive writing experience. You’ll uncover a rich tapestry of hidden gems—from vintage theaters like the Star Theatre in Berkeley Springs to thrilling rafting spots in Smoke Hole Canyon, plus a historic ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad. The book equips you with detailed descriptions that go beyond typical tourist stops, offering a genuine sense of place and adventure. It suits travelers eager to experience West Virginia's lesser-known attractions rather than the usual itinerary.

This tailored book explores immersive outdoor experiences across West Virginia, presenting a step-by-step plan that matches your interests and skill level. It covers diverse activities from hiking and camping to river adventures, guiding you through mountain trails, state parks, and hidden natural gems. By focusing on your specific goals, it reveals personalized routes and practical tips to maximize your connection with the Mountain State’s rugged landscape. This approach helps you discover new perspectives on familiar destinations and uncovers lesser-known spots, offering a unique blend of adventure and local culture. By combining expert knowledge with your individual preferences, the book creates a tailored pathway through West Virginia’s wilderness, encouraging exploration at your own pace. It enables a rich understanding of outdoor recreation that fits your background and ambitions, making every day an authentic mountain adventure.

Drawing from his extensive experience as a travel journalist and geologist, Bruce Sloane guides you through twenty-four carefully curated drives across West Virginia, each highlighting unique natural wonders and historical landmarks. You’ll navigate roaring rivers, ancient Indian mounds, Civil War battlefields, and rustic farms with detailed maps and route descriptions that bring the Mountain State’s diverse landscapes to life. Chapters focus on specific areas, like high-tech coal mines and virgin forests, offering insights that go beyond typical travel guides. This book suits anyone eager to explore West Virginia’s scenic and cultural richness by car, especially those who appreciate a blend of history, geology, and outdoor adventure.

What started as a practical need to organize and remember visits to West Virginia's state parks became a comprehensive journal designed by West Virginia Parks Publishing, specialists in travel guides. This book offers a detailed and structured way for you to log your trips, noting everything from dates and fees to wildlife and hikes, making your outdoor adventures more memorable and reflective. Whether you're camping in a tent, cabin, or RV, or just exploring day trails, the journal's pages encourage you to capture the unique character of each park and recreation area. This book suits anyone who wants to enrich their experience with thoughtful record-keeping and is especially useful for repeat visitors and nature lovers who want a keepsake of their journeys.